1. Environmental well-being
Gandum Village was born with a commitment to protecting and regenerating the environment. This pillar prioritizes practices that go beyond conventional sustainability, focusing on regenerating natural resources, preserving biodiversity and mitigating the effects of climate change. For Gandum, hospitality is only possible when harmonized with nature.
Main Areas of Activity
1. Preservation of Biodiversity:
Implementation of an agroforest with native species, promoting habitats for local fauna and pollinators.
Protecting the Gandum stream as an essential ecosystem.
2. Natural Resource Management:
Rainwater harvesting and reuse of gray water for irrigation and cleaning.
Use of renewable energy (solar) to minimize dependence on fossil sources.
3. Climate Change Mitigation:
Reforestation and tree planting for carbon sequestration.
Reducing emissions through efficient operating practices and local partnerships.
4. Waste management:
Circular economy, with a focus on composting organic waste and eliminating single-use plastics.
Recycling and reuse of materials in all operations.
Connection with the SDGs
Gandum's commitment to Environmental Well-Being is directly aligned with the following Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
SDG 6: Sustainable water management and protection of aquatic ecosystems.
SDG 12: Responsible consumption and production, promoting a circular economy.
SDG 13: Climate action through emission reductions and adaptation to climate change.
SDG 15: Terrestrial life, with a focus on preserving biodiversity and regenerating soils.
Examples of actions
Reforestation: Partnerships with guests to plant trees, contributing directly to the recovery of degraded areas.
Renewable Energy: Installation of solar panels to supply 70% of energy needs by 2025.
Educational Workshops: Activities to teach guests about regenerative practices such as composting and agroforestry design.
Pillar summary
Environmental Well-Being is the basis of Gandum Village's commitment to regeneration, not just minimizing impacts, but creating an environment that thrives. This pillar sets Gandum apart as a living model of regenerative hospitality.
1.1 Preserving Biodiversity
The preservation of biodiversity is one of Gandum Village's central commitments, reflecting the aim of creating a regenerative space where native species can thrive and contribute to the ecological balance of the region. This effort not only benefits the local environment, but also educates guests and the community about the importance of biodiversity for the planet.
Vision and Objective
Vision: To transform Gandum into a sanctuary for biodiversity, promoting harmonious coexistence between nature, the community and guests.
Objective: To regenerate the local ecosystem through actions that protect existing species, reintroduce native species and promote diversified habitats.
Preservation Strategies
1. Creation of a Diversified Agroforestry:
Planting native trees and shrubs that not only regenerate the soil, but also provide food and shelter for the local fauna.
Key species: Cork oaks, olive trees, strawberry trees and aromatic plants such as rosemary and thyme.
Objective: To create ecological corridors that connect different areas of Gandum, facilitating the movement of animals and pollinators.
2. Protection of the Gandum Stream:
Establishment of protected zones along the river to prevent degradation and pollution.
Reforestation of the banks with native species to stabilize the soil and improve water quality.
Regular monitoring to identify and mitigate possible threats to the aquatic ecosystem.
3. Creating habitats for pollinators:
Installation of insect hotels, promoting the reproduction of bees and other essential pollinators.
Maintaining areas with wild flowers to attract butterflies, bees and birds.
4. Reintroduction of Native Species:
Work with experts to identify local species that can be reintroduced sustainably.
Example: Replanting centuries-old trees, such as cork oaks and holm oaks, which are pillars of the local ecosystem.
Education and involvement
Preserving biodiversity is not just a technical operation; it is an opportunity to educate and inspire guests, employees and the community. Gandum Village offers various initiatives to foster this connection:
Guided walks in the Agroforest:
Guided by experts, guests learn about the species present, the role of biodiversity and how regenerative practices benefit the global environment.
Duration: 1h30 | Frequency: Weekly | Target audience: Guests and local visitors.
Workshops on Biodiversity:
Topics: "The Importance of Pollinators" and "Native Plants and the Alentejo Soil".
It includes practical activities such as planting trees or creating mini-habitats for insects.
Adopt a Tree" program:
Guests can plant a tree and receive annual updates on its growth and impact.
Partnerships with local schools:
Educational visits for children, teaching them about the local flora and fauna and involving them in planting activities.
Monitoring and Results
Preserving biodiversity requires constant monitoring to assess the impact of actions and guarantee positive results. Gandum uses the following monitoring tools:
1. biodiversity inventories:
Carried out annually to identify new species and monitor the growth of existing populations.
Target: Increase the number of species observed by 30% by 2025.
2. Monitoring of the Gandum Stream:
Assessment of water quality and the state of the aquatic habitat.
Objective: To ensure that the river supports healthy populations of fish, aquatic insects and submerged plants.
3. Indicators of Success:
Number of trees planted: 2,000 by 2025.
Presence of pollinators: 40% increase in the observation of bees and butterflies in 3 years.
Recovery of aquatic habitats: Improvement of water quality by 20% by 2026.
Connection with the SDGs
SDG 15 (Terrestrial Life): Conservation and recovery of local biodiversity.
SDG 6 (Drinking Water and Sanitation): Protection of the Gandum stream and associated water resources.
SDG 13 (Climate Action): Mitigating climate change through reforestation and carbon sequestration.
Expected Impact
The preservation of biodiversity at Gandum Village will create a resilient ecosystem that benefits the environment, the community and the guests. This commitment reinforces Gandum's mission as a living model of regeneration, inspiring others to adopt similar practices.
1.2 Natural Resource Management
Natural resource management at Gandum Village is an essential pillar for ensuring environmental sustainability and efficient operations. The approach goes beyond responsible use - the aim is to regenerate and restore the natural cycles of water, energy and soil, creating a model that harmonizes hospitality and regeneration.
Vision and Objective
Vision: To make Gandum Village an example of sustainable and regenerative resource management, with a positive impact on the environment and the community.
Objective: Minimize waste, maximize efficiency and regenerate natural resources through innovative technologies and ecological practices.
Focus Areas
1. Water management:
Water is a vital resource for Gandum and its management is an absolute priority, especially in a region like the Alentejo, with periods of prolonged drought.
Rainwater collection:
Systems installed on roofs and infrastructures to collect and store rainwater, which is used to irrigate the agroforestry and for non-potable purposes.
Reuse of Grey Water:
Filtration systems for reusing water from showers and sinks in gardening.
Intelligent Irrigation:
Sensor technology to irrigate only when the soil reaches critical moisture levels, avoiding waste.
2. Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy:
The energy consumed at Gandum is managed to reduce emissions and rely as much as possible on renewable sources.
Solar panels:
Energy production to meet the hotel's electricity needs and reduce its carbon footprint.
Target: 70% of energy from renewable sources by 2025.
LED lighting and sensors:
Implementation of efficient lighting with presence sensors to reduce consumption.
Low-consumption equipment:
Use of A+++ energy-rated appliances to minimize energy impact.
3. Soil regeneration:
Soil management goes beyond preservation - it focuses on its recovery and enrichment.
Natural Fertilization:
Use of compost and organic waste to improve soil fertility.
Vegetation cover:
Mulching to prevent erosion and retain moisture in the soil.
4. Reducing and Reusing Resources:
Circular Economy:
All the waste generated at Gandum is classified and reused whenever possible.
Disposal of disposable plastics:
Replacing disposable plastics with reusable or biodegradable alternatives in all operations.
Rigorous recycling:
Accessible recycling points for employees, guests and operational areas.
Education and involvement
Natural resource management is an opportunity to involve guests and employees in regenerative practices.
Workshops on Water and Energy Sustainability:
Demonstration of Gandum's water harvesting and renewable energy systems, promoting the replication of these practices at home.
Educational Tours:
Presentation of the water, energy and soil management systems implemented at Gandum, explaining the positive impact of sustainable choices.
Awareness programs:
Inclusion of educational messages in rooms and common areas to encourage guests to save water and energy during their stay.
Monitoring and targets
1. Water consumption:
Target: Reduce drinking water consumption by 30% by 2025.
Monitoring: Monthly reports on the irrigation system and the use of grey water.
2. Energy efficiency:
Target: Achieve 70% renewable energy by 2025.
Monitoring: Reports on solar energy production and consumption.
3. Waste management:
Target: Reduce waste sent to landfill by 50% by 2026.
Monitoring: Quarterly waste audits.
Connection with the SDGs
SDG 6 (Drinking Water and Sanitation): Efficient use and regeneration of water resources.
SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy): Implementation of renewable energy in all operations.
SDG 12 (Sustainable Consumption and Production): Circular economy and waste minimization.
SDG 13 (Climate Action): Reducing carbon emissions through renewable energy and regenerative practices.
Expected Impact
The effective management of natural resources turns Gandum into a model of ecological balance, showing that it is possible to combine quality hospitality with regenerative practices. Guests not only enjoy a conscious stay, but leave inspired to apply these solutions in their daily lives.
1.3 Climate Change Mitigation
At Gandum Village, climate change mitigation is central to its mission of regeneration and sustainability. This commitment translates into actions that go beyond reducing emissions, also addressing carbon sequestration, adapting to climate change and educating guests and the community about the environmental impact of their choices.
Vision and Objective
Vision: To create a regenerative hospitality model that actively contributes to climate change mitigation, while educating and inspiring visitors.
Objective: To reduce Gandum's carbon footprint, adopt practices that sequester carbon and promote climate resilience in all operations.
Mitigation Strategies
1. Reducing Carbon Emissions
Renewable Energy:
Produce 70% of the energy needed from solar panels by 2025.
Implement efficient heating and cooling systems based on clean energy sources.
Sustainable transportation:
Encourage the use of bicycles and electric vehicles with dedicated infrastructure (e.g. charging stations).
Promote collective transportation for guests, such as shared shuttles.
Operational efficiency:
Reduce energy consumption through practices such as LED lighting, motion sensors and efficient thermal insulation.
2. Carbon sequestration
Reforestation and Agroforestry:
Planting 2,000 native trees by 2025, focusing on species such as cork oaks, holm oaks and strawberry trees.
Expanding agroforestry as a solution to capture carbon and regenerate soils.
Nature-based solutions:
Introduce agricultural practices that increase carbon storage in the soil.
3. Adapting to climate change
Resilient Infrastructures:
Designing buildings and landscapes that can withstand extreme weather events, such as intense heat or torrential rain.
Water and Soil Management:
Implement systems to mitigate the impact of droughts, including the efficient use of water and soil cover to retain moisture.
Strategic Planting:
Creation of green and shaded areas to reduce the impact of high temperatures on the guest experience.
4. Education and Awareness
Workshops on Climate Change:
Activities that show how each visitor can reduce their carbon footprint and adopt regenerative practices in their daily lives.
Transparency in emissions:
Clear communication of Gandum's carbon footprint, including annual reports showing progress and challenges.
Carbon offset programs:
Options for guests to offset their emissions by planting trees or contributing to local regeneration projects.
Monitoring and targets
1. Reducing the Carbon Footprint
Target: Reduce emissions by 50% by 2026.
Monitoring: Annual audits of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
2. Carbon sequestration
Target: Capture 100 tons of carbon annually by 2025 through agroforestry and regeneration practices.
Monitoring: Measurement of biomass and soil health in reforested areas.
3. Climate education
Target: Involve 500 guests a year in activities related to climate change and regeneration.
Monitoring: Record of participation in workshops and educational activities.
Connection with the SDGs
SDG 13 (Climate Action): Reduce emissions, sequester carbon and adapt to the effects of climate change.
SDG 15 (Terrestrial Life): Reforestation and sustainable soil management practices to support biodiversity.
SDG 12 (Sustainable Consumption and Production): Promote regenerative practices and minimize environmental impact.
Examples of concrete actions
1. Educational tours on reforestation:
Guided by experts, showing the impact of tree planting on carbon capture and ecosystem regeneration.
Duration: 1 hour | Frequency: Monthly.
2. workshops on "How to reduce your carbon footprint":
Focus on practical actions that guests can apply in their daily lives, from food choices to transportation.
Duration: 2 hours | Target audience: Guests and local community.
3. Collaboration with local projects:
Support for regional reforestation and regeneration initiatives, such as partnerships with local environmental NGOs.
4. Carbon Offsetting Option in the Reserve:
Allow guests to add an optional contribution to the reserve to support carbon sequestration and other Gandum initiatives.
Expected Impact
Climate change mitigation at Gandum Village will result not only in more sustainable operations, but also in greater resilience in the face of future challenges. By combining practical actions with education and transparency, Gandum becomes a model of how hospitality can lead the fight against climate change.
1.4 Waste Management
At Gandum Village, waste management goes beyond traditional recycling. The aim is to implement a circular economy approach, reducing waste generation as much as possible, reusing materials and eliminating dependence on landfills. This vision is integrated into all operations, from infrastructure design to the guest experience.
Vision and Objective
Vision: To make Gandum a zero-waste space, where every material has an extended life cycle, contributing to a healthier and more sustainable environment.
Goal: Reduce waste generation by 50% by 2026, eliminate single-use plastics and promote composting and recycling as standard practices.
Waste Management Strategies
1. Reduction at source
Disposal of disposable plastics:
Replacing single-use plastics with biodegradable, reusable or recyclable materials in all services, including accommodation and catering.
Responsible Purchasing:
Work with suppliers who use sustainable packaging and deliver products in bulk, reducing packaging waste.
Digitization:
Elimination of unnecessary paperwork, with digital menus and online check-in/check-out processes.
2. Reuse and recycling
Waste sorting:
Recycling points accessible to guests and employees, with detailed separation (paper, plastic, glass, metals, organic).
Reuse of materials:
Creative use of discarded materials, such as furniture made from reused wood or decoration made from recycled waste.
3. Composting and Organic Waste Management
Composting system:
Installation of composters to transform food and garden waste into natural fertilizer.
Integration with agroforestry:
Use the compost produced to enrich the soil of the agroforestry and green areas of Gandum.
Partnerships with local farms:
Sending surplus organic waste to local producers to use as fertilizer.
4. Education and Awareness
Guest involvement:
Information in the rooms on how to separate waste and the positive impact of practices such as composting.
Incentives for guests who take part in initiatives such as composting workshops.
Employee training:
Regular training to ensure that all team members understand and apply waste management practices.
5. Circular Economy at Provenance (Restaurant):
Conscious Menu:
Menu planning to make the most of ingredients, reducing food waste.
Creative Reuse:
Using food scraps and leftovers in new dishes, such as broths, sauces or desserts.
Monitoring and targets
1. Reducing Waste Sent to Landfill
Target: Decrease by 50% by 2026.
Monitoring: Quarterly solid waste audits.
2. Compost production
Target: Produce 10 tons of compost per year by the end of 2025.
Monitoring: Composting records and compost quality analyses.
3. Disposal of Disposable Plastics
Target: Replace 100% of single-use plastics with sustainable alternatives by 2024.
Monitoring: Inventory and audit of materials used.
4. Recycling rate
Target: Achieve 75% recycling of waste generated by the end of 2025.
Monitoring: Detailed waste separation reports.
Connection with the SDGs
SDG 12 (Sustainable Consumption and Production): Implementation of circular economy practices and waste reduction.
SDG 13 (Climate Action): Reducing emissions through composting and disposing of organic waste in landfills.
SDG 15 (Terrestrial Life): Using compost to enrich the soil and protect local ecosystems.
Examples of concrete actions
1. Composting Workshop for Guests:
Demonstration of the composting process at Gandum, with tips for replication at home.
Duration: 1 hour | Target audience: Local guests and visitors.
2. Zero Waste Room" initiative:
Rooms with sustainable solutions, such as rechargeable amenities, reused decoration and recycling kits.
3. Guided Tours on Circular Economy at Provenance:
Show how the restaurant reuses food and eliminates waste.
4. "Zero Plastic" at Check-in:
Offer reusable water bottles to guests for use during their stay and as a sustainable souvenir.
Expected Impact
Waste management at Gandum Village turns an environmental challenge into an opportunity for innovation. By reducing waste and promoting the circular economy, Gandum reinforces its role as a leader in regenerative practices, educating guests and employees while creating a lasting positive impact.
