Sweetwaters Serena Camp

Name of the facility	Sweetwaters Serena Camp
Certification Achieved	Gold
Year opened	1990
Tourism region	Laikipia/Samburu
County	Laikipia
Address	Ol Pejeta Conservancy Map It
Telephone/Mobile	+254 734699852
Email	sweetwaters@serena.co.ke
Website	serena.co.ke
Facility Notes	Sweetwaters Serena Camp is located at Ol Pejeta Conservancy. The camp is specifically located on Global Positioning System (GPS) Coordinates, Latitude 036 56 40.8 and Longitude 000 002 21.0011 N. The camp is located on 50 acres of land leased within the conservancy. It has 56 guest tents with a bed capacity of 120 visitors and a total work force of 110 employees. Ol Pejeta conservancy is managed as a wildlife Sanctuary, including the endangered black and white rhinos, leopard, elephant, buffalo and lion. Other wildlife includes Grevy’s zebra, Jackson’s hartebeest, cheetah and chimpanzee. The Conservancy works to conserve wildlife and provide a sanctuary for Chimpanzees. It aims to generate income through wildlife and tourism enterprises which is invested in conservation and community development. The camp promotes environmental conservation through remittance of bed night fees, lease fees and conservancy fees to the Ol Pejeta Conservancy, who collects funding necessary for wildlife conservation and enhances community development through providing financial assistance to projects on education, health, water, roads, agriculture, livestock Extension and Community-Based Tourism.
Energy management	Main source of power for the Camp is from the Kenya power national grid. However, the facility has two (2) backup diesel generators with an output capacity of 135KvA and 250KvA respectively. The generator servicing hours and fuel consumption are closely monitored. The facility has metered its energy consumption at the main source, and major consumption areas including the laundry and kitchen. It has installed energy saving and Lighting Emitting Diodes (LED) bulbs throughout its premises. Water heating for the guest rooms is done using solar water heaters. The heaters are boosted by a backup heat calorifier and generator powered electrical heaters and the facility has a solar powered electric fence. LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) is used for cooking throughout the facility. Staff and guests are sensitized on energy conservation through departmental meetings (switch off unnecessary lights and electrical appliances) and room information folders in the guest tents
Environmental management	Sweetwaters is guided by the Serena Hotels corporate environmental statement which is committed to protecting the environment, monitoring the interests of the local population, practicing a responsible attitude towards resource use and conservation of protected areas. The camp has an Environmental Management System (EMS) with management plans for water, energy and waste.
Chemical use	The facility purchases its liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in bulk and stored in two (2) cylinders; weighing (2) two tones with a PSI of 375. Sweetwaters uses bio-degradable chemicals such as Diversy chemicals in its laundry and Eco-boutique shower amenities within the guest rooms. Material Safety Data Sheets for the Chemicals are available. Staff is trained on handling. Henkel chemicals including chlorine and algaecide are used for pool treatments. MSDS for chemicals is available. Fuel (diesel) is stored in two tanks of approximately 9,000 litres.
Conservation Criteria
Community Criteria
Solid waste management	Waste separation is conducted at the source, (guest kitchen) the bins are clearly labelled. Organic waste is given to a local pig farmer contracted by the camp. Plastics, Metallic (tins), Glass waste is stored at the waste management centre waiting disposal through Nairobi Serena Central stores. Water suppliers i.e. Keringet collects its plastic waste after supply. The camp uses 18litres, drinking water dispensers in its staff quarters area, and offices aimed at reducing plastic waste.
Water management	The main source of water for the Camp is from a borehole under Ol Pejeta Conservancy Management. The water is pumped into two (2) reservoirs; with a total capacity of approximately 90,000 litres. The water is metered at the source (in-let). The tanks are fixed with float switches to switch off the pump and avoid spillage. Rain water harvesting is conducted in two (2) tanks of 5000 litres at the staff quarters. Meter readings are conducted twice (2) daily. The records assist the facility to monitor its consumption and possible leakages. The Camp encourages its visitors to re-use their towels through their room information sheets aimed at water conservation and reduced use of laundry chemicals. Also, visual signage is mounted in different water use points around the camp. Water efficient appliances such as shower heads fitted with faucets (tap flow reducers) have been installed in the guest rooms. The facility has also embraced dual cistern toilets for its guest tents. Press taps and push taps are fixed in areas such as the guest kitchen. Automatic utensil washer is fitted in the kitchen to enhance efficiency and reduce on water use. Laundry machines are operated at their optimum load to conserve energy and water
Visitor communication & education	The camp has elaborate room information folders with information on camp operations, environmental policies, and information on Ol Pejeta Conservancy. Guests are briefed upon arrival on the existing activities at the camp and conservancy and the camp’s environmental conservation initiatives
Pollution	The generator is stored in an acoustic body (sound proof room) and fitted with a muffler (sound reducing devices). The facility lights are covered or shaded to reduce light pollution. The kitchen is fitted with a hub for ventilation
Environmental conservation	Sweetwaters has an environmental day set for the 8th of every month. The day involves sensitization talks on waste, energy and water management and conservation activities such as tree planting whereby willing guests and staff are involved in these activities. The camp has a tree planting program aimed at rehabilitating its environs and it involves nearby schools. Tree planting activities are conducted together with the local community and guests. Additionally, the facility also donates seedlings to the local community. The facility Naturalist organizes and offers environmental sensitization lectures every evening to guests. Talks include information on Ol Pejeta Conservancy and its conservation efforts. The camp has a tree nursery where it nurtures indigenous seedlings, which are the later planted within the premises. The facility’s architectural design blends with the natural surroundings. Sweetwaters Serena promotes conservation within Ol pejeta through awareness creation on the unique attributes of the conservancy such as the Northern white rhino sanctuary and the Chimpanzee sanctuary. In addition, the camp guides are involved in rhino and lion tracking and monitoring within the conservancy. Low impact activities offered by the camp include nature and bird walks, camel rides. The nature walks are guided by an armed ranger guide.
Waste water management	Swimming pool water is cleaned via vacuum cleaning and backwash system. Backwash is conducted twice a week. Grey water from the kitchen passes through a grease trap before joining the sewer system. Sweetwaters Serena has a waste water treatment plant that caters for both Grey and Black effluent. The waste water treatment plant has three main (enclosed) chambers with various stages of filtration, biological and enzymes treatment. Bio-enzymes are added to facilitate sludge breakdown. The effluent end up in soak pits
Purchasing and supplies	Sweetwaters Serena purchases its food products in sustainable ways to reduce on packaging. Fruits and vegetables are packed in re-usable crates. Dry goods such as floor and sugar are bought in bulk 50kg bags. Meat is purchased in cooler boxes.
Employment and remuneration/staff welfare	Sweetwaters Serena has a staff welfare committee that represents employees’ issues to the management. Daily departmental meetings are held for staff briefing on activities and planning issues
Staff education, communication and awareness training	The facility has notice boards used for staff communication. Materials on the notice boards include the environmental policy, mission statement, safety policy and other relevant information.
Cultural preservation and promotion/protection of local sites	The camp supports various entertainment community cultural groups within the area. Management has established contract with five groups to entertain guests through performances on specific days (Kikuyu, Samburu and Turkana). The hotel pays the performers’ at KSh. 4000 and provides transport to and fro. The facility purchases and sources curios from the local community groups for sale at the curio shop.
Benefits to local community/community empowerment	Approximately 30% of the permanent employees are from the local area (within Nanyuki); however, all the casuals are employed from the local villages around the conservancy. The facility offers internship opportunities to students from the local colleges and universities. At least 3 slots are reserved for the local people. The camp has a CSR committee spearheaded by the manager, nurse and heads of departments. An annual plan is formulated followed by specific quarterly activities for the year. Sweetwaters obtains purchases such as fruits and vegetables locally. Local suppliers are given first priority. The facility remits bed night fees, lease fees and conservancy fees to the Ol Pejeta Conservancy. The funding is necessary for wildlife conservation and enhances community development through providing financial assistance to different projects on education, health, water, roads, agriculture, livestock Extension and Community-Based Tourism. To complement the Conservancy activities or projects, Sweetwaters Serena has its own corporate social responsibility; the facility invests in education, health, purchasing local products, and Community well-being
Cultural Criteria
Health and safety	Sweetwaters Serena has a health and safety policy committed to meeting all statutory requirements and complying with occupational health and safety legal requirements. The camp has a health and safety committee spearheaded by the heads of departments (HODS). Quarterly meeting are held. The committee organizes self-audits on health and safety and risk assessments audits. Fire drills are conducted at least twice in a year to enhance the emergency and evacuation plan of the camp. Additionally, staff is sensitized on fire fighting. The facility has an emergency evacuation plan or procedure placed in the guest tents. Medical check-ups are conducted every six months to all kitchen staff (food and beverage handlers) in the facility. Sweetwaters has received its Health Clearance Certificate from the Ministry of Public Health and Sanitation. The camp has an in-house 24hrs clinic and clinical Officer to cater for staff and guest medical health care. Referrals are made to Nanyuki Cottage Hospital. First aid kits (boxes) are strategically distributed in the main departments such as laundry and kitchen. Firefighting equipment such as fire hydrants, fire extinguishers, kitchen fire blanket, automatic fire suppression appliances are serviced and strategically placed within the facility. Sand buckets are also available to complement the firefighting equipment. The Camp provides PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) or working gear including boots, gloves, and aprons to its repairs and maintenance (R&M). Safety and precautionary signage are fixed in strategic areas within the facility. Smoke detectors and fire alarms are fixed at the guest tents.
Child labor, abuse and human rights	The facility does not employ any person below the legal working age of 18 years.
Business Practises Criteria
Entry Date	13th March 2018

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Solio Lodge

Name of the facility	Solio Lodge
Certification Achieved	Gold
Year opened	2010
Tourism region	Laikipia/Samburu
County	Laikipia
Address	Solio Ranch in Laikipia County Map It
Telephone/Mobile	+254 725 675 830
Email	soliolodge@thesafaricollection.com
Website	thesafaricollection.com.
Facility Notes	Solio lodge is located within Solio Ranch - a privately owned wildlife conservancy situated in Laikipia County, 22 kilometers North of Nyeri Town. The lodge is specifically located on Global Positioning System (GPS) Coordinates, Latitude: 000.15’4.512 S and Longitude: 360.52’43.776 E. It has 6 guest tents with a bed capacity of 12 visitors and a total work force of 30 employees. Solio Ranch is located on approximately 17,500 acres parcel of land and it is a protected area geared towards rhino conservation. The Ranch plays a major role in the protection and breeding black rhinos in Kenya. Its conservation and breeding program has been successful and provides stock for translocation to other sanctuaries, such as Nakuru, Tsavo and the Aberdares National Parks. The Ranch is also home to other wildlife, including buffalo, zebra, giraffe and plains game such as eland, oryx, impala, waterbuck, Thompson's gazelle and warthog. It is a haven for birdlife including grey-crowned cranes.
Energy management	Solio lodge’s main source of power is Kenya Power electricity grid. However, the facility has a backup generator with power output capacity of 38 KvA. Water heating for the facility is conducted through the use of six (6) energy efficient kuni boilers (Dead wood is supplied by the Ranch or obtained from Loldia Farm in Navaisha). Further the facility is trying out the use of solar water heating (capacity of 600 litres has been installed) and once effective it will be implemented throughout the premises. Energy consumption is metered at source and monitoring done. Light emitting diodes (LEDs) and energy saving bulbs are installed throughout for energy conservation. Liquefied Petroleum gas (LPG) is used for guests cooking whereas fuel-wood in is used at the staff quarters. The facility has two (2) laundry machines which are operated at their optimum weight to enhance their efficiency and conserve on energy. Staff is sensitized on energy conservation through departmental briefings and sensitization signage
Environmental management	Solio lodge is steered by the Corporate Company’s- The Safari Collection - environmental policy. The document puts emphasis on continued improvement on sound and sustainable management practices, social responsibility, commitment to environmental protection and conservation of resources such as water energy, and waste management, and compliance to relevant government regulations and legislations. The lodge has undertaken its annual self-Environmental Audit (EA) as required by EMCA 1999 (Environmental Management and Co-ordination Act). The facility has an environmental management system (EMS) to spearhead its operations. The EMS includes set objectives, and monitoring plans for resources such as water, energy, and waste management.
Chemical use	Solio lodge uses high quality biodegradable washing detergents for its laundry. The chemicals are accompanied by a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). Biodegradable bathing soaps and solutions are used within the lodge. Fuel i.e. petrol and diesel are stored in 20 litres containers in a properly secured store. Liquefied Petroleum gas is stored in 50 kg cylinders. The cylinders are well secured - outside - for safety purposes.
Conservation Criteria
Community Criteria
Solid waste management	The lodge has a waste management policy. Waste separation is conducted at source. The bins are clearly labeled. (Plastics, organic and tins etc). In waste reduction attempts the facility; • Has a no plastic bottle use policy • Uses 18 litre drinking water dispensers in its staff departments aimed at plastic waste reduction. • Has decorated i.e. beaded wine bottles used to serve water at the guest rooms – an initiative to reduce on plastic waste. Organic waste is donated to a local pig farmer – it is collected on daily basis. Plastics, metallic waste (tins), glass (wine bottles are put in bags awaiting disposal via Nairobi Safari Collection Central Stores Offices. Paper waste is burned in the facility incinerator. The lodge keeps an inventory of waste (types and quantity) generated for efforts aimed at waste monitoring at source. A waste disposal tracking form’ has been established to ensure the waste (from the lodge) is delivered to the intended destination
Water management	Main source of water for the lodge is obtained from a borehole. Water is also obtained from the river for irrigation purposes and by harvesting rain water. The borehole water is pumped and collected in reservoirs of 15,000 litres for supply through gravitational force to the entire premises. The reservoir is fixed with a float switch to avoid overflow spillage. A water meter is fixed at source (borehole and river water) to monitor consumption. Solio lodge has a routine reporting procedure to monitor water leakages. The efforts are spearheaded by the housekeeping and Repairs & Maintenance (R&M) sections. The guestrooms have fixed dual flush water efficient toilets. Water efficient technology such as lift taps and mixture taps are fixed in the guest cottages and guest kitchen. The facility lawns are irrigated in the early mornings. Staff is sensitized on water conservation through departmental briefings. Further sensitization signage is strategically placed within the facility main user points. The lodge also encourages its visitors to re-use their towels through sensitization signage and their room information folders aimed at water conservation and reduced use of laundry chemicals. In an effort to save water, the facility has ‘save a bucket initiative’ whereby guest are sensitized to put a bucket and collect running water from showers before it gets hot. The water is later used for irrigating lawns within the premises.
Visitor communication & education	Solio lodge guest cottages are equipped with elaborate room information folders and nature magazines. Room information folders contain available activities and operations within Solio Ranch. Further it illustrates the uniqueness of the Ranch with detailed information on Rhino protection. Checklist on birds, mammals, marsh life etc. is also available. Further, guests are briefed upon arrival on the existing activities of the lodge and environmental conservation such as on water. Once in a while lecture and slide shows are shown on wildlife conservation to the clients.
Pollution	Paraffin lanterns are used for lighting the pathways at night and to reduce on light emission. The generator is stored in a sound proof room fitted with a muffler system (sound reducing device).
Environmental conservation	The lodge is artistically designed with glass windows and doors for natural lighting and landscape views. The walls are made of stone and painted brown to blend in the surrounding. The roofing is made from grass thatch that blends in with the natural surroundings. Path ways within the lodge are aligned with sand and gravel to demarcate the way. The facility offers low environmental impact activities such as horse riding, cycling, bird watching and nature walks conducted within the ranch. The activities are aimed at sensitizing the visitors on the surrounding environment. Through Solio lodge, visitors are expected to pay conservancy fees (80 USD for non-resident and 40 USD for resident per night) directly to Solio Ranch. The money collected is fully paid to the ranch management for conservation activities. The lodge management and safari guides, assist in wildlife monitoring through reporting incidences such as injured wildlife to the Ranch officials. The guides assist in tracking of individual rhinos, as well as monitoring the stocking density of rhinos in the ranch through participating in data with the Ranch management. The facility runs a ‘Lions Kid Camp’ – a week long initiative through which kids are sensitized on wildlife conservation. The initiative born from Saasab Samburu through Ewaso Lions has been used to create awareness to school going children within the area
Waste water management	The kitchen effluent system has grease traps to filter out oils and grease. All grey water from the kitchen, guest rooms and staff quarters is managed via soak pits. Water effluent sample tests are conducted at the facility in compliance with Environmental Management and Coordination (Water Quality) Regulations 2006. Black water within the facility is managed through septic tanks. The facility has five (5) septic tanks and has an effluent discharge license
Purchasing and supplies	The lodge purchases its products in bulk to reduce on packaging. Fruits and vegetables are packed in re-usable crates whereas meat is packaged in cool boxes
Employment and remuneration/staff welfare	The lodge has a staff welfare committee which handles and addresses staff issues. It meets on monthly basis.
Staff education, communication and awareness training	The facility has notice board for staff communication. Staff briefings are held at departmental level on daily basis for planning activities
Cultural preservation and promotion/protection of local sites	The lodge is located in a cosmopolitan area hence no elaborate culture is available however willing visitors are provided with local delicacies and taken to the local open air market to interact with the local people.
Benefits to local community/community empowerment	Solio Lodge purchases its products including fruits and vegetables, staff meat from local suppliers in Mweiga, Nyeri and Narumoru area. At least 40% of the employees are hired from the local area (inclusive casuals). The lodge has a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Plan. It engages its guests through various initiatives; this includes education, health and conservation initiatives. • Education; the lodge supports Honi primary school through text books donations and is upgrading six (6) classrooms from mabati to permanent stone buildings. At Laburria School – Solio lodge rebuilt (refurbishment) a block of classrooms at value of approximately $10,000 and donated textbooks. Other donations such as sports equipment and text books have been done at Lachuta primary school. • Health – In 2015 and May 2016, Solio lodge with support of MEAK (Medical and Educational Aid to Kenya) Foundation hosted an eye clinic (ophthalmic services) for the local community at the local Mary Immaculate Hospital. Over 2,000 people have benefited from the annual event which runs 7 days in a week. Approximately $10,000 was used in 2015. Further, a dental clinic was also held Mary Immaculate Hospital in 2015 (Approximately $6,000 was used) • In conservation, the lodge involves Mwihogo Secondary school on ad hoc basis through wildlife talks and donation of sports equipment. • In mentorship, Solio Lodge engages Laburra Secondary school through ‘TEAM talks’ aimed at creating awareness and sensitizing the pupils on self-esteem, and sexual health. The initiative was conducted in year 2013 and 2014. The lodge is a member of “Pack for a Purpose”, an online system where visitors are encouraged to pack items needed by the communities in areas where they travel. Donations made include learning materials and stationery. Occasionally, the lodge makes donations such as clothes, and food to local Mary Immaculate Orphanage which has 30 children. Staff is provided with health care, uniform, food, accommodation facilities and basic amenities such as soaps.
Cultural Criteria
Health and safety	The facility has conducted the annual health & safety and fire audit in compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Act, 2007 and Factories and other places of work (Fire Risk Reduction) Rules 2007 respectively. The lodge has a Health Clearance Certificate from the Ministry of Public Health and Sanitation. It is also registered as a workplace and provided with a license under the OSH 2007 requirements. The facility has (2) two staff trained on advanced first aid whereas six (6) are trained on general first aid. In addition, it has a doctor on call. Medical emergencies for guests are referred to Nanyuki Cottage Hospital whereas staff are refereed to Mary Immaculate Hospital (Staff medical care is insured under Britam hence can attend any other hospital). The lodge has an optimal core team of (5) members trained on Occupational Health and Safety. Emergency contacts are well displayed within the facility notice boards. Verified medical checkups are conducted every six months for all kitchen staff (food and beverage handlers) in the lodge to ascertain their health fitness, and in compliance with the Food, Drugs, and Chemical substances Act. Cap 254. Firefighting equipment including fire extinguishers, fire electric alarm, fire blanket in the kitchen, are serviced and are strategically placed within the facility. Sand buckets are fixed to compliment the fire extinguishers. Safety and precautionary signage such as no smoking, highly flammable are fixed in strategic areas including the generator room. The facility provides protective gear / PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) such as boots, uniform, gloves and aprons to the staff. Fire assembly points and fire exits and alarm are clearly and conspicuously marked within the lodge. The lodge has well equipped first aid kit located in the main office.
Child labor, abuse and human rights	The facility does not employ any person below the legal working age of 18 years.
Business Practises Criteria
Entry Date	13th March 2018

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Sirikoi Lodge

Name of the facility	Sirikoi Lodge
Certification Achieved	Gold
Year opened	1995
Tourism region	Laikipia/Samburu
County	Meru
Address	Meru Map It
Telephone/Mobile	+254 727 232 445
Email	bookings@sirikoi.com
Website	sirikoi.com
Facility Notes	Sirikoi Lodge is located at Lewa wildlife conservancy.The camp is strategically located on Global Positioning System (GPS) Coordinates, Latitude: 0.206413(00°12′23.087″N) || Longitude 37.433069 (37°25′59.046″E).Bordering the wildlife conservancy is the Ngare Ndare Forest which occupies 5,300 hectares of indigenous forest. Ngare Ndare Forest is a safe haven for large mammals including elephants, and a paradise for monkeys, birds and butterflies. The Conservancy was formed in 1995 having started in 1980s as a 5,000 acre rhino sanctuary owned by the Craig family. It has four tents, one cottage and one luxury guest house with a total of fifty four employees. Currently, it covers an area of 32,000 acres and is home to a wide variety of wildlife including the rare and endangered black rhino, Grevy’s zebra and sitatunga (marsh buck). In addition, it also hosts lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo. Lewa holds over 12% of Kenya’s black rhino population and a comparatively large population of Grevy’s zebras (approximately 350 individuals).
Energy management	Sirikoi has invested in solar energy for heating and electricity within the lodge. The facility has installed about 73 solar panels. The facility has a total of three solar water heaters which are supplemented by 9 kuni boilers. The facility also makes its own charcoal from off cuts and dead wood collected within the conservancy. The charcoal is made using drum kilns. Charcoal is used within the facility for baking, barbeques and heating the dining area in the evenings. . Liquefied Petroleum gas (LPG) is used for guests cooking. The staff is sensitized on energy conservation through departmental briefings whereas guests are briefed on energy conservation on arrival and through information folders in the guest tents. The guest tents are fixed with main switches and the night guards are sensitized to switch off unnecessary lights. Also, Energy saving bulbs is installed throughout the lodge enhancing energy conservation.
Environmental management	Sirikoi Lodge is guided by its general policy and guidelines which lays prominence on universal principles of social, economic and environmental sustainability. Further it is guided by its mission to provide safe, comfortable and hospitable services to clients. This is envisioned by need to develop, own and manage a community based business that provides mutual respect and benefits to the local people. The camp has an environmental management system illustrated through clearly spelt out operational guidelines on general management , environmental management, purchasing, resources use including water, energy and waste, community involvement, guests integration and staff development.
Chemical use	The lodge uses biodegradable bathroom amenities from Leleshwa Soaps for guests. Magic-Oxy which is bio-degradable is used in cleaning laundry. The facility also uses chlorine and algaecides in the pool. Liquefied Petroleum gas is stored in a secured cage to prevent possible interference. Fuel for the generators and vehicles is stored in 100 liters containers in properly secured in bunded structure. Material safety data sheets are available for all chemicals used within the facility. Swimming pool chemicals consumption records are properly kept to monitor chemical use.
Conservation Criteria
Community Criteria
Solid waste management	Waste separation at the facility is conducted at source. The bins are clearly labelled and the staff sensitized on waste separation and management at source. As a waste reduction measure, the facility re-uses tetra pack materials to grow indigenous seedlings. Excess is donated to Ngare Ndare Forest for growing tree seedlings. Plastics, glass and other waste is stored in a waste management area where it is well sorted awaiting disposal, through the Lewa conservancy office. Sirikoi reduces plastic waste generated by providing guests with reusable glass bottles for drinking water. Organic waste is used for rabbits that are kept within the lodge. Some of the waste is composted using bio-composting method (using worms). The compost is then used within the vegetable garden. Used oil is stored in a properly contained bunded section to prevent accidental spillage to the environment and later disposed via Lewa Conservancy.
Water management	The main source of water at the lodge for the guest and employees is Lewa Spring located about 12 km from the facility. A water meter has been installed at source and an extraction permit issued by Water Resources and Management Authority (WRMA). A float switch has been fixed to prevent water loss through spillage .The water is stored in two reservoir tanks with a capacity of 20,000 litres each. Guests are sensitized on arrival on water conservation. In addition, guests are encouraged to re-use their towels through “towel-talks” as a means to save water. Staff are also sensitized during regular briefings.
Visitor communication & education	Visitors are briefed upon arrival on the lodge’s operations and environmental values. The guest cottages and tents are equipped with room information folders to brief the visitors on environmental conservation and operations of Sirikoi Lodge as well as the activities and biodiversity within Lewa wildlife conservancy. Visitors are also visit Lewa Education Centre to learn about the ongoing projects and wildlife research. They can also participate in visits to community projects such as boreholes and the women micro-credit initiative, schools and clinics.
Pollution	Low light emitting paraffin Lanterns are used to light the pathways at night which greatly reduces light pollution while the generator has an acoustic sound proof body to reduce on the noise pollution.
Environmental conservation	Sirikoi Lodge is established on the fundamentals of low environmental impacts. The lodge encourages and conducts low impact activities such as walking safaris / nature walks, horse riding to its visitors. Sirikoi also engages in replanting of indigenous tree species and protection of wetland areas. Since the inception of the lodge, 370 Acres of diverse Acacia woodland have been recovered & maintained and a further 41 Acres of crucial wetlands have been restored & preserved. The lodge supports wildlife conservation through the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy. The facility pays 105 US Dollars per guest a night, as conservancy fee to Lewa Wildlife Conservation. It has well provided crucial habitats for endangered species and increased space for expanding populations by adding 7,000 acres of land to Lewa Wildlife Conservancy.
Waste water management	Effluent from the guest kitchen flows through a grease trap to filter out oils and grease before draining into a soak pit. The grease traps are cleaned on a daily basis. Grey waste water from the laundry, guest rooms and staff quarters is managed through a Bio box system. This system operates in two phases. The first phase involves anaerobic digestion of solids in septic tanks. In the second phase, the effluent flows through a system of bio-filters layered with natural fibres where Bacteria in the fibre digest the organic matter. The resultant effluent then flows into soak pits. The swimming pool is cleaned via sieving, backwash and vacuum cleaning. Records are kept on a daily basis. The facility has also conducted effluent tests analysis and issued with an effluent discharge license.
Purchasing and supplies	Vegetables and fruits are packed in reusable crates while meat and dairy products are stored in freezers. Where possible dry goods are bought in bulk to reduce on the packaging. The facility also uses recyclable bags (kikapu) when shopping to reduce packaging in polythene bags. Most of the vegetables and fruits are picked from the lodge’s garden.
Employment and remuneration/staff welfare	Staff benefits include food, health insurance, uniform, entertainment, transport and accommodation. Approximately 80% of the staff is from the local community and casual labor is also sourced locally. There is a staff committee in place which represents their issues to the management. A Savings and Credit Co-operative Society has also been set up for the staff.
Staff education, communication and awareness training	The lodge has an in-house staff training program where employees are trained on fire safety, health and safety, sustainability awareness, hygiene and housekeeping lessons, professional skills such as computer skills and permaculture courses etc.
Cultural preservation and promotion/protection of local sites	Sirikoi offers visits to Ilngwesi Village where the visitors are sensitized on the local culture, engages in cultural dances, talks and sports activities such as arrows and spears throwing. Each visitor is charged 35 US dollars. The proceeds are directed to the locals. The facility partners with Tropic Air Kenya to take its visitors on excursions to Kaisut & Chalbi deserts at Kargi to experience the Rendile culture, and to Suguta area in Samburu to experience the Pokot culture. The lodge has detailed ‘room information folders’ with materials concerning the local region, people and culture.
Benefits to local community/community empowerment	The lodge purchases locally where possible, these include, fuel, meat (goat meat for staff meals). Sirikoi sources curios from Northern Rangeland Trust (NRT) Micro Enterprise program. Additional curios are bought from local vendors around Lewa, Isiolo and Nairobi. Sirikoi is a partner with "Pack with a purpose" which is an organization encouraging guests to identify specific needs in places they visit for donations. Donations are collected from clients and made through Lewa Wildlife Conservancy. Approximately 20Kgs of school supplies were donated in 2016 to Lewa Education. Most Significant, Sirikoi participates in community development and environmental conservation initiatives through Lewa Wildlife Conservancy. The conservancy engages in initiatives such as Community Healthcare; Community Water Management; Women’s Micro Credit Program; Community Forestry and Adult Literacy Classes. Makes guests donations through Lewa Wildlife Conservancy. Donations include; School supplies and sponsorships. The lodge contributes approximately US$10,000 per year in school bursary payments to their staff and local community.
Cultural Criteria
Health and safety	Safety and precautionary signage are properly and strategically installed within the facility. Firefighting equipment such as fire extinguishers, automatic fire suppression, and fire blankets are strategically located and dully serviced. The facility has conducted a fire safety audit to comply with Factories and other places of work (Fire Risk Reduction) Rules 2007. The facility has a valid certificate of registration of workplace from DOSH. The staff members have been dully trained on first Aid skills and occupational health and safety. Training was last conducted in April 2016 by Eco health Company Ltd. There is a trained fire safety team and fire Marshalls picked from the staff at the lodge. The facility has a health and safety committee that meets on a regular basis to handle staff welfare especially with regards to health and safety.
Child labor, abuse and human rights	The facility adheres to the legal employment age.
Business Practises Criteria
Entry Date	10th November 2017

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Severin Sea Lodge

Name of the facility	Severin Sea Lodge
Certification Achieved	Gold
Year opened	1972
Tourism region	Coast
County	Mombasa (County)
Address	Mombasa Map It
Telephone/Mobile	+254 41 2111 000, + 254 41 2004153/4,
Email	reservations@severinsealodge.com
Website	severinsealodge.com
Facility Notes	Severin Sea Lodge is located in Mombasa, North Coast. The lodge has been designed in a traditional African style with attention to detail: The round bungalows, the main building and the two swimming pools are harmoniously located within a vast grove of palms. The lodge has a total of 188 rooms with a total bed capacity of 360. It is open all year round. Severin Sea Lodge is located in one of the most important tourism destinations in Kenya, Mombasa. The facility has a direct sea front access to Bamburi beach. The hotel is also in close proximity to Haller park. Haller Park was formed through the successful transformation of a quarry wasteland into an ecological area. The Park was the first recipient of the United Nations Environmental Program Global 500 Roll of Honour award for the unique, ecologically sound and successful rehabilitation undertaken. Presently the park is home to a variety of wildlife including; hippos, giraffes, antelopes and a plethora of smaller mammals, birds and insects
Energy management	The facility also has a solar plant, which is housed in the solar green room and is used to run the primary operations of the hotel. The facility has also invested in a solar powered water heating. The solar plant is housed in the solar green building. This is a form of centralized water heating with a capacity of about 265m2. Severin Sea Lodge is also connected to the Kenya Power grid. In order to promote energy conservation, the hotel has • LED (Light Emitting Diodes) and energy saving bulbs fixed throughout the hotel • Visitors are briefed upon arrival on the need to conserve energy through switching off unnecessary lights. • The guests are also sensitized to ensure doors and windows are closed when air conditioning is on. This enhances the air conditioners efficiency. • Employees are sensitized to ensure unnecessary lights, and water heaters in guest rooms are put off. Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) is used for guest and staff cooking
Environmental management	Severin Sea Lodge is anchored on its mission statement of promoting environmental and community wellbeing in its surrounding. The statement commits to work above international standards and remain social and ecological stewards. The hotel has a comprehensive environmental policy to guide in its operations. The policy is committed to: • Compliance with relevant environmental legislation and proactive approach to future requirements. • Monitoring performance for continued improvement in environmental performance • Conservation of natural resources through responsible use of water, energy and other resources. The facility has a clear environmental management system (EMS) with elaborate management plans in waste water, water and energy use, solid waste management and health and safety.
Chemical use	Ecolab laundry detergents and powders are used for washing in the laundry section. Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for the chemicals are available. The staff handling chemicals have been trained and sensitized on proper handling.
Conservation Criteria
Community Criteria
Solid waste management	Proper waste separation – organic and non-organic - is conducted at source including in the guest rooms. The waste is further segregated at the waste management centre into plastics, glass and metallic tins. Monitoring of the waste is later done through weighing and recording (types and quantity) on daily basis. The organic waste is composted at the facility’s kitchen garden. The rest of the solid waste (glass, metal, plastic paper) is collected and transported by a NEMA licenced waste handler- Plastic Keen Cleaners for disposal. Further the facility has invested in an in-house domestic water purifying system which ensures water is fit for human consumption. These initiatives have significantly reduced on plastic waste generation.
Water management	The facility’s main source of water is a borehole. The water is pumped from the borehole, filtered and then passed through a reverse osmosis system, which is housed in the Severin Green Building. The reverse osmosis system is run for 6 hours in a day and purifies water to a portable state.
Visitor communication & education	Guest rooms are equipped with information folders detailing activities and operations of Severin Sea Lodge. The guide showcases profiles on the unique areas/spots within the North Coast regions. Visitors are briefed upon arrival on the hotel’s operations. The hotel has a guest information notice board fitted with available activities.
Pollution	The hotel kitchen is properly ventilated, fixed with air extractors, kitchen hub, and AC system. This is aimed at enhancing the working conditions of the staff. Low filament energy saving bulbs are used for lighting hotel pathways at night. The paths lights are also fixed with a cover to reduce on light pollution.
Environmental conservation	The facility has a tree nursery within the premises. This nursery is used to propagate seedlings that are later replanted within the facility. The hotel conducts Beach clean ups every first Sunday in collaboration with the staff, guests and beach operators. Severin Sea Lodge has heavily invested in renewable solar energy to curb reliance on other non-renewable fuels. This initiative has gone a long way in reducing the carbon footprint of the facility.
Waste water management	Severin Sea Lodge has invested in a biological wastewater treatment system that manages both its grey and black effluent. The system operates in the following way; • All wastewater is pressure pumped to subterranean collection basins where is it passed through a screen spiral filter to remove non-biodegradable bulky material. • The separated solids are removed from the effluent through a dump. • Oils and fats from the Kitchen effluent are removed using a fat separator. • At the main treatment plant, the effluent first goes into a settling tank where other remaining solids are removed. It then goes through an aeration tank where microbes (EM2) are used to degrade the pollutants. • Resultant sludge from the plant is used as a fertilizer in the hotel’s vegetable garden. The resultant water is recycled for irrigation within the facility. Swimming pool water is cleaned through sieving, vacuum cleaning and a backwash system. PH levels (i.e. acidity and alkalinity levels) are checked on a daily basis. The Lodge conducts regular water effluent sampling in compliance with Environmental Management and Coordination (Water Quality) Regulations of 2006. As a result of the effective wastewater treatment at the facility, Severin Sea Lodge has been exempted from obtaining an effluent discharge license by NEMA.
Purchasing and supplies	The hotel purchases its products in bulk to reduce on packaging; fruits and vegetables are packed in re-usable crates.
Employment and remuneration/staff welfare	More than 75% of the permanent employees are from the local community. Additionally, all casual labour is sourced from the locals. Employees are provided with, food, uniform, transport and medical care. The staffs are paid in line with the minimum wage.
Staff education, communication and awareness training	The hotel has notice boards fitted in strategic sections within the premise. The notice boards are used for facilitating communication on internal memos, operations, meeting schedules etc. Sensitization, training and briefing is also done thrice a week by the heads of department. Employees have the opportunity to grow their skills through 6 month exchange program with other German professionals. So far 9 staff members particularly from Food and Beverage have benefitted from this initiative.
Cultural preservation and promotion/protection of local sites	Severin Sea lodge has incorporated pieces of decor that depict the local Mijikenda and Swahili cultures. The Architecture also integrates local styles of building using thatched roofs. The facility also engages local and Maasai dancers to entertain the guests three times in a week. This is an aim to promote the cultures of the Kenyan people.
Benefits to local community/community empowerment	Severin Sea Lodge employs from the local community. About 65% of the employees are from the local community. The facility dedicated to community empowerment using a number of avenues. of the initiatives include:- • Supporting local enterprises for the physically challenged; i) Severin Sea Lodge supports Likoni Quality Furniture. This furniture shop was founded by the Association for the Physically disabled to provide a platform for the physically challenged to create income. The facility procures strictly and directly from APDK all the furniture items ii) The hotel also supports Bombolulu Workshop by procuring leather items for them directly. This includes menu folders, room information folders, key rings as well as all leather used in the workshop. iii) Severin Sea Lodge purchases from the locals where possible. This primarily includes the supply of vegetable and fruits. Fish is also procured locally from Barracuda Fish Shop. iv) The facility supports a local physically challenged artist to create the signage carvings for the guest rooms. • Education; v) The craftsmen training Centre- Through a partnership with the German Association of International Cooperation (GIZ), the hotel has established a training centre for local youth within its premises. The centre, which is housed in the green building offers training for practical skills in masonry, carpentry, plumbing, electrical and metal works. The centre has just taken its first cohort of fifteen students this year. The students are trained in line with German training standards and will after training possess practical skills. vi) Skills for Kenya Initiative. Severin Sea Lodge Management is a founding member this association that financially supports young Kenyans in their home country in their vocational education and training in order to give them better access to working life and helps them to develop their own skills and knowledge. vii) The management of Severin Sea Lodge has supported some local children to pursue tertiary learning. So far 8 students in different universities and colleges in Kenya have benefitted from this bursary system. • Donations: Periodically, the hotel donates linen and mattresses to the junior staff. The facility also donates Christmas gifts to Mji wa Salama Children’s home on an annual basis.
Cultural Criteria
Health and safety	Severin Sea Lodge has a detailed and clearly communicated Health and Safety Policy that is in line with the National OSHA regulation. Additionally, there is a Fire Marshalls team trained in firefighting and first aiders in all departments. First Aid training was conducted which involved 23 members of staff from different departments. Food handlers have undergone medical tests in compliance with Food, Drugs, and Chemical substances Act. Cap 254 Precautionary and safety signage such as ‘highly flammable’ ‘no smoking’ ‘danger’ is well displayed at strategic areas such as Gas section for safety purposes. The facility has fully equipped first aid kits in the major departments. Critical medical emergencies are referred to a Doctor on call. The guest rooms are equipped with telephone lines, smoke detectors, for emergency and fire safety response. Health Inspection has been conducted by public health inspectors under the Ministry of Public Health and Sanitation. Fire-fighting equipment which includes fire extinguishers, fire horse rails, automatic fire hydrant system, kitchen fire blankets are serviced and strategically placed within the facility. The hotel has conducted a Health and Safety Audit in compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Act, 2007. The facility has conducted a fire safety audit to comply with Factories and other places of work (Fire Risk Reduction) Rules 2007.
Child labor, abuse and human rights	Severin Sea Lodge has a well-defined Human Resource policy that guides against employment of minors. Minimum employment age is 18years.
Business Practises Criteria
Entry Date	15th March 2018

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Severin Safari Camp

Name of the facility	Severin Safari Camp
Certification Achieved	Silver
Year opened	2001
Tourism region	Coast
County	Taita–Taveta
Address	82169-80100 Mombasa Map It
Telephone/Mobile	+254 41 2111 000,
Email	sales@severinsafaricamp.com
Website	severinsafaricamp.com
Facility Notes	Severin Safari Camp is a luxurious 27 roomed tented camp with a bed capacity of 54 located in the Tsavo West National Park, on GPS coordinates Latitude -2.998724 Longitude 37.985562. It has a total of 60 employees. Tsavo West National Park is about 7,065 Km2 in size. The park is a popular destination on account of its magnificent scenery, Mzima Springs, rich and varied wildlife, rhino reserve, rock climbing potential and guided walks along the Tsavo River. The savannah ecosystem comprises of open grasslands, scrublands, and Acacia woodlands, belts of riverine vegetation and rocky ridges. Major wildlife attractions include elephant, rhino, Hippos, lions, cheetah, leopards, and Buffalos. It has diverse plant and bird species including the threatened corncrake and near threatened Basra Reed Warbler
Energy management	Severin Safari Camp runs on solar and diesel powered generators. There are four (4) generators, two with an output capacity of 40 KvA and two more with 80 KvA. The power is used for lighting, water heating and running refrigerators. Generator power is metered for monitoring purposes. The fuel consumption is also closely monitored for efficiency. Energy consumption is analyzed on guest occupancy. Severin Safari Camp has invested in solar water heaters which are connected to a heat exchanger system fixed on the generator exhaust. The heat exchanger uses hot fumes produced by the generator and electrical motors for water heating. The entire system has a capacity of 4000 litres. It is well insulated to enhance efficiency and the hot water is metered for monitoring purposes. Guests are briefed on energy conservation on arrival and through information folders in the guest tents while staff is sensitized through staff meetings and departmental briefings. In addition, main switches are fixed in the guest tents for easier clients’ accessibility to switch off unnecessary lights. Energy saving bulbs and light emitting diodes are installed throughout the facility for power conservation. Security flash lights and torches are solar rechargeable
Environmental management	Severin Safari Camp is guided by its environmental policy showing commitment to environmental conservation; environmental management; compliance with relevant environmental and government legislations; pollution prevention; human rights and promoting social responsibility. The facility has an environmental management system (EMS) to spearhead its operations. The EMS includes panning for impact reduction, implementation and operation, monitoring (checking) and management review. The camp has undertaken its annual Environmental Audit (EA) as required by EMCA 1999 (Environmental Management and Co-ordination Act.)
Chemical use	Gas is bought in 50Kg cylinders for staff and guests cooking respectively. The storage section is caged and signage installed for safety purposes. The fuel (diesel) is stored in a 16,000 litres underground tank. The camp uses biodegradable bathroom amenities such as bathing soaps and shampoos in the guest tents supplied by Clique Limited. Diversey and Starlite Chemicals are used for laundry and cleaning purposes. Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for the chemicals are available
Conservation Criteria
Community Criteria
Solid waste management	Waste separation (paper, plastics, metals, glass and organic) is conducted at source. Organic waste is composted. The rest is put at a waste collection centre for further segregation before disposal via Severin headquarters to recycling companies in Mombasa. The camp monitors its waste generation through an inventory (quantity and type) for legal compliance and to create efforts towards waste reduction at source. Waste production is also analysed based on guest occupancy.
Water management	The camp obtains its water from a spring located within the National Park. The water is pumped and stored in reservoir tanks with a capacity of 100,000 litres. The water is treated, through chlorination and filtration system before supply to the entire premises. A water meter has been installed at source and main outlet to monitor the water usage. The obtained water records are used to analyze water consumption based on guest occupancy for monitoring purposes. Guests are sensitized about water conservation on arrival. In addition, guests are encouraged to re-use their towels through “towel-talks” as a means to conserve water. Staff is sensitized during regular briefings. The guest tents are fitted with high pressure shower filter heads (fixed with faucets –tap flow reducers) for water use efficiency.
Visitor communication & education	Booklets and room information folders are available at the restaurant section and guest tents respectively. Publications such as Africa Geographic magazines, Books on Kenya, Tsavo National Park and its ecosystem, Birds of Kenya, mammals and bird list are availed at the section for sensitization / communication purposes. Visitors are briefed upon arrival on the camp’s operations, and environmental values. In addition, the guest tents are equipped with room information folders to brief the visitors on environmental conservation activities and initiatives
Pollution	Used oil is stored in 20 litre jerry cans in a bunded section to prevent accidental spillage to the environment.
Environmental conservation	The natural vegetation within the facility is relatively undisturbed. The pathways are demarcated using locally available lava gravel. Severin Safari Camp support to conservation is through payment of the park fee to Kenya Wildlife Service. Approximately Kshs. 500, 000 is paid on monthly basis
Waste water management	Effluent from the staff and guest kitchen is managed through a grease trap to filter fats and oils before draining into a waste water treatment system. Black and grey water for the facility is managed through a treatment plant and used for watering the lawns within the premises. The facility has two main treatment plants. • The 1st treatment plant has four (4) chambers fixed with a filtration system; bio enzymes are added to digest the sludge. The treatment caters for staff quarters and laundry waste water. • A 2nd treatment plant is installed at the staff quarters area. The Bio-lava treatment plant uses bio-filtration system and manages effluent from the guest kitchen and guest tents. Water effluent tests have been conducted in compliance with Environmental Management Co-ordination (Water Quality) regulations of 2006. Subsequently, an Effluent Discharge License has been applied for the facility. Swimming pool water is cleaned via sieving, vacuum cleaning and backwash system. PH levels (i.e. acidity and alkalinity levels) are checked on daily basis. An automated chemical dispensing system has been installed for pool chlorination purposes.
Purchasing and supplies	The facility purchases its products in bulk to reduce on packaging; fruits and vegetables are packed in re-usable crates whereas meat is packaged in freezers.
Employment and remuneration/staff welfare	The facility has a staff committee and Union committee which represents staff issues to the management. Staff benefits include food, uniform, entertainment centre, transport and accommodation.
Staff education, communication and awareness training	The environmental policy is clearly communicated to the staff through, strategically fixed signage, daily briefing from the management and in house sensitization. The camp has an in-house staff training program where employees are sensitized on the facility standard operating procedures, languages, and computer packages.
Cultural preservation and promotion/protection of local sites	The camp facilitates guests Maasai village visits at a fee remitted to the locals. Visitors get to experience local culture, purchase local curios, cultural talks and entertainment dances.
Benefits to local community/community empowerment	Severin Safari Camp purchases from the locals where possible, vegetables and curios are bought locally form Mtito Andei and Voi. Meat for staff meals is also bought locally. On ad hoc basis and on demand, the facility arranges village visits to Eltelal village. Guests pay $10 per guest, payable to the community. Severin Safari camp ensures payment of requisite fees (financial obligations) as follows; • Land Lease: Pays land fee to Kenya Wildlife Service. At least Kshs.500, 000 is paid on monthly basis. • Park fee: Clients pay 75 USD per night
Cultural Criteria
Health and safety	Precautionary and safety signage such as ‘Hatari’ ‘highly flammable’ are strategically fixed at relevant places such as the fuel and gas storage areas. Proper Housekeeping (well arranged, clean, and properly ventilated) was seen at the food and dry goods storage area and in the repairs and maintenance section. The camp has undergone Health Inspection and issued with a Health Inspection Certificate. There is an adequate team of staff (the camp manager, guides and heads of departments) trained on first aid. Well-equipped first aid kits are available at the main office, kitchen and game drive vehicles. Adequate fire-fighting equipment including, fire extinguishers, fire blanket in the kitchen, are serviced and strategically placed throughout the facility. There is an emergency procedure/fire evacuation procedure in place. This is availed in the public areas and within the guest tents. A fire assembly point is properly marked and displayed within the facility. A fire alarm is also available. Safety signage is fixed in all key areas such as the swimming pool, fuel storage and gas storage areas respectively. The facility has conducted a comprehensive health and safety audit in compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Act 2007. The camp provides PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) such as overall, gloves and boots to the repairs and maintenance staff.
Child labor, abuse and human rights	The camp has a policy in place addressing their stand on Child labor, abuse and human rights. The policy is well displayed in the public notice board alongside other policies.
Business Practises Criteria
Entry Date	12th March 2018

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Serena Mountain Lodge

Name of the facility	Serena Mountain Lodge
Certification Achieved	Silver
Year opened	1971
Tourism region	Central
County	Nyeri
Address	Nyeri Map It
Telephone/Mobile	(+254) 733 203078 or (+254) 734 135352
Email	mtlodge@serena.co.ke
Website	serenahotels.com
Facility Notes	Serena Mountain Lodge is situated in Mount Kenya National Park about 193 kilometres from Nairobi. The Lodge is located on Global Positioning System (GPS) Coordinates, Latitude: Latitude: -0.31682 and Longitude: Longitude: 37.1523. The lodge is released from Mount Kenya National Park which is a mountainous rain forest with dense shrubs; it’s one of Kenya’s water towers and the largest forest reserve in Kenya with a diverse range of flora and fauna. Common wildlife in the National Park include: elephants, leopards, hyenas, buffaloes and giant forest hogs. The soils are loamy, fertile and well drained making the area ideal for agriculture. Rainfall falls throughout the year, with the peaks in April, May and October. Dry seasons occur in January, February and August. The forest faces severe threats from deforestation, illegal logging, human encroachment and human wildlife conflicts. It has forty two guest tents with a bed capacity of 80 visitors and a total work force of 65 employees.
Energy management	Serena Mountain Lodge is connected to the Kenya Power grid as the main source of energy. The facility has also invested back-up Teksan generators with power output of 200 KvA and 275 KvA. The energy is used for lighting, water heating, running the laundry machines and refrigerators throughout the premises. Power is metered to monitor energy consumption. In addition generator fuel consumption is closely monitored. Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) is used for guest and staff cooking. The staff is sensitized on energy conservation through departmental briefings whereas visitors are sensitized on arrival briefings. Visual sensitization signage e.g. ‘turn off lights’ is also fixed in strategic areas. The facility runs on LED (Light Emitting Diodes) and energy saving bulbs for lighting.
Environmental management	Serena Mountain Lodge is guided by its general policy which lays emphasis on universal principles of social, economic and environmental sustainability. Further it is guided by its mission to provide safe, comfortable and hospitable services to clients. This is envisioned by need to develop, own and manage a community based business that provides mutual respect and benefits to the local people. The camp has an environmental management system illustrated through clearly spelt out operational guidelines on general management , environmental management, purchasing, resources use including water, energy and waste, community involvement, guests integration and staff development
Chemical use	Gas is stored in two cylinders weighing 2tonnes. The storage area is located on a safe distance, and the section is clearly fixed with precautionary signage. The cylinder pressure gauge and PSI has been checked and serviced for safety purposes. The lodge issues biodegradable bathing soaps to the guests for use in the guest rooms. Soaps are obtained from clique limited. The staff handling chemicals has been trained and sensitized on proper handling. Diesel is stored in three (3) tanks with a capacity of 200 liters each. The storage area is well contained and secured to prevent spillage.
Conservation Criteria
Community Criteria
Solid waste management	Waste separation at the facility is conducted at source for organics, plastics, glass and metallic tins and the bins are labelled. Additionally, further sorting is done at the waste management centre. The waste is later put in a waste collection centre for further segregation before disposal. Organic waste is composted in a well-sealed pit. Drinking water within the staff quarters is served using water dispensers which has significantly reduced generation of plastic waste. Used oil from generators servicing is put in 200 litre reservoirs for disposal through the maintenance company
Water management	Main source of water for the Serena Mountain Lodge is obtained from nearby River Ngunia. The water is pumped, treated through chlorination and stored in reservoirs with a total capacity of 105,000 litres. Later it is pumped in overhead tanks of 30,000 litres for distribution via gravity force to entire premises. Staff is sensitized on water usage during brief meetings and guests during arrival briefings. Guests are also encouraged and sensitized through rooms’ cards – ‘towel talks’ to re-use their towels. Visual water saving sensitization signage is fixed within the main water user points such as kitchen and laundry.
Visitor communication & education	Serena Mountain Lodge has a designated information section within the lounge area. The section has information about Mt Kenya forest, ecosystem, and Kikuyu culture. Magazines on mammals and birds are also available. The guest rooms are equipped with folders that contain comprehensive information on the surrounding environment and facility operations. Guests are further briefed upon arrival on the values of the lodge, its operations and unique activities within the region.
Pollution	Low light emitting paraffin Lanterns are used to light the pathways at night which greatly reduces light pollution. Generator operation hours are closely monitored for servicing purposes. The room is insulated and a muffler system fixed on the generator system to reduce on sound pollution. The guest kitchen is fixed with a hood extractor system for ventilation purposes.
Environmental conservation	Serena Mountain Lodge has established a tree planting initiative through their corporate social responsibility program with the local community aimed at improving their standards and enhancing environmental conservation. Other stakeholders involved include KWS, and KFS. The Lodge has a tree nursery with approximately 25,000 seedlings both indigenous and exotic species. The trees are used for re-afforestation within the lodge, neighbouring community and nearby Hombe forest. The facility runs community based tree planting in Hombe Forest, Mount Kenya region. To date more than 200,000 seedlings have been planted since its inception in the year 2001 (illustrated below). Tree seedlings from the nursery are offered free of charge to the local communities, schools and individuals. Some of the schools involved in the initiative include Gathirimu Secondary, Ngurio and Kiamaruru Secondary. Approximately 24,000 seedlings were planted in 2016.
Waste water management	Grey water from the guest rooms and staff quarters is managed through a septic tank system for sludge digestion before draining into a soak pit fixed with radial arms. Grey water from the guest Kitchen flows through a fitted grease trap to remove excess fats and oil before draining into a septic tank and later ends up in soak pit. Black water from the guest rooms, staff quarters, and public areas is collected in septic tanks for sludge digestion. The effluent later flows into an underground waste water treatment system fixed with radial arms. The system is fixed with access maintenance manholes. The Lodge also conducts regular effluent tests
Purchasing and supplies	The facility purchases its products in bulk to reduce on packaging; fruits and vegetables are packed in re-usable crates.
Employment and remuneration/staff welfare	The facility has a staff welfare committee that meets regularly to discuss employees’ welfare and arising issues. Further, the facility holds weekly departmental meetings and daily briefs for staff sensitization
Staff education, communication and awareness training	The lodge has notice boards fitted in strategic sections within the premise. The notice board are used for facilitating communication.
Cultural preservation and promotion/protection of local sites	The lodge Naturalist offers lectures on; natural surroundings - environment, kikuyu culture and wildlife. The facility encourages its clients to uptake activities offered within the Mountain Park. These include nature walks, walking safaris and visiting caves.
Benefits to local community/community empowerment	Serena Mountain Lodge purchases from the local community where possible. At least 70% of all vegetables and fruits are obtained from the local suppliers. Meat for staff meals and eggs are also obtained locally. More than 75% of the permanent employees are from the local Kikuyu community. Additionally, all casual labour is sourced from the local community. The facility supports the Local Community Forest Association by purchasing seedlings. For the past 5years the facility has bought a total of 20,000 seedlings at a cost of Kshs.200, 000. Periodically, the lodge supports two orphanage children home; KENWA and Karatina Children’s home. Support is given through food donations, utensils, school bags and bedding.
Cultural Criteria
Health and safety	The lodge has conducted a Health and Safety Audit in compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Act, 2007. Latest conducted in February 2017. Renewal of registration of workplace certificate is in progress. Health Inspection has been conducted by public health inspectors under the Ministry of Public Health and Sanitation. The facility has been issued with a Health clearance Certificate. Dated February 2017. The facility has fully equipped first aid kits in the major departments. In addition is a full time clinical officer on duty. Critical medical emergencies are referred to Nanyuki Cottage hospital. Firefighting equipment which includes fire extinguishers, fire horse rails, kitchen fire blankets are serviced and strategically placed within the facility. The facility has a fire evacuation plan and a map of the distribution of the fire equipment, exits and fire assembly points. Food handlers have undergone medical tests in compliance with Food, Drugs, and Chemical substances Act. Cap 254 – latest in February 2017. The facility has fully equipped first aid kits in the major departments. In addition is a full time clinical officer on duty. Critical medical emergencies are referred to Nanyuki Cottage hospital.
Child labor, abuse and human rights	The facility adheres to the legal employment age.
Business Practises Criteria
Entry Date	12th March 2018

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Serena Beach Hotel and Spa

Name of the facility	Serena Beach Hotel and Spa
Certification Achieved	Gold
Year opened	1975
Tourism region	Coast
County	Mombasa (County)
Address	90352- 80100 Mombasa Map It
Telephone/Mobile	041 5485721/4
Email	mombasa@serena.co.ke
Website	serenahotels.com
Facility Notes	Serena Beach Hotel & Spa is located on Shanzu Beach, 30 kilometers from Mombasa town. The hotel is specifically located on Global Positioning System (GPS) Coordinates, Latitude: 4°10’South and Longitude 39°45’East. It has 164 guest rooms with a bed capacity of 328 visitors and a total work force of 308 employees. The facility’s uniqueness can be attributed to Shanzu Beach and proximity to important biodiversity conservation areas such as Mombasa Marine National Park and Haller Park. Mombasa Marine National Park measures approximately 10 km² (2,500 acres) while the larger Marine reserve measures 200 km² (49,400 acres). The reserve was established as a Marine Park in 1986, and encloses part of the lagoon, back reef and reef crest habitats of the Bamburi and Nyali fringing reef. The park comprises of the sea waters, mangroves, sea grasses, and sea weed and is home to variety of marine life. Other spectacular attractions include the beach and coral gardens. The park is a popular snorkeling and diving location.
Energy management	Serena Beach Resort is connected to the National Power grid. The records are kept aptly. The facility also uses solar power and a centralized water heating system that runs on diesel. 2 generators with an output of 650 KvA and 800KvA are used as back up for the facility. There are up to date records of the generator fuel consumption as well as running hours. The facility uses LPG gas for cooking the guest meals. The resort is also currently using charcoal briquettes to run the pizza oven.
Environmental management	Serena Beach Resort is guided by the Serena Group environmental policy that emphasizes on dedication to the practice of sound environmental stewardship, promotion of health and safety of guests and employees as well as integration of all sustainability concerns in their business operations. The facility undertakes its annual self-Environmental Audit (EA) as required by EMCA 1999 (Environmental Management and Co-ordination Act.)
Chemical use	The facility uses biodegradable bathroom amenities from Eco Boutique in the guest rooms. Swimming pool chemicals consumption records are properly kept to monitor chemical use. Diesel at the facility is stored in 5 Tonnes tank. The facility uses biodegradable laundry detergents from Odex Chemicals. Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for the chemicals used within the facility are available.
Conservation Criteria
Community Criteria
Solid waste management	Waste separation is conducted at source using clearly labelled bins, especially in the kitchen. Waste is then stored a waste holding area before collection and disposal. Waste such as needles from the clinic is incinerated through a small incinerator at the clinic. Syringes and other medical waste is handled through Shimo Annex Clinic
Water management	Serena Beach resort is connected to the county water supply managed by MAWASCO. The facility also has a borehole for water supply.The facility has a water treatment plant. At the plant water is chlorinates, filtered through a charcoal filtered and further passed through a reverse osmosis system.Water meters have been installed to monitor water consumption by the facility
Visitor communication & education	Visitors are briefed upon arrival on the facility’s operations and environmental values. The guests are provided with room information sheets upon arrival that clearly state the operations of the hotel. The resort has a resource centre for the guests, that is furnished with a variety of literature that is especially targeted for recreational reading. The Serena Beach Resort has a unique approach for guest interaction through a variety of glass cased artifacts and handicrafts are placed at strategic points within the facility-The facility hosts a daily lecture on turtle conservation that is given by a local marine scientist. Guests at the facility also get to learn about the butterfly project and the importance of butterfly conservation at the facility. This initiative has been very successful at visitor education and the butterfly pavilion has received a total of 21,414 guests to date. The facility has a life sized chess board, whose playing pieces are made out of recycled flip flops. This is an initiative developed in partnership with Ocean Sole for an interactive way to raise awareness on marine pollution.
Pollution	The facility uses low light emitting bulbs to minimize light pollution at night.
Environmental conservation	The resort is directly involved in turtle conservation. Serena has an active turtle nesting point and hatchery. The facility works closely with Kikambala fishing village in the monitoring and location of turtle nests and eggs. The nests could either be protected if they are in an appropriate place or necessitate the relocation of eggs to the safe hatchery at Serena Beach. The nesting site hosts three different species including; Green turtles, Hawksbill, Olive Ridley. From 1993 to date, initiative has hatched 52,098 turtles with a average success rate of 84%.The facility is also actively involved in creation of awareness of marine pollution. Through a partnership with Ocean Sole, the facility has established a life sized chess board made of recycled flip flops. Serena beach resort has a butterfly conservation project within its premises. This is an on-going project that has been there for 14 years. The aim of the project is to provide a secure breeding site for the butterflies and enhance their population. To date the project has hatched a total of 348,984 butterflies. The butterfly pavilion currently has 67 different species of butterflies. The facility has an on-going tree planting program at the resort. The tree seedlings are nursed at the butterfly pavilion. Fallen leaves from the already existing trees are composted and used for soil fertilization in the propagation of new trees. Through a new partnership with WWF, the facility will engage proactive approaches for building support and involving guests in conservation of biodiversity. In this project the facility will stock selected items in gift shop where proceeds are dedicated specifically to fund WWF projects aimed at marine protection. Serena Beach Resort participates annually in Earth Hour celebrations. This is global event that encourages people, businesses and organizations to switch off all electricity for one hour. The collective effort is aimed at reducing carbon emissions significantly at that particular hour. The facility also participates in beach clean-up initiatives in partnership with other stakeholders in the area.
Waste water management	The facility swimming pool is cleaned via sieving, backwash and vacuum cleaning. Records are kept on a daily basis. The facility conducts effluent tests on a quarterly basis and has applied for an effluent discharge license. The facility has a grease trap for the proper management of fats and oils from grey water from the kitchen. Grey water from the kitchen, laundry and bathrooms is managed through soak pits. Black water throughout the facility is managed through a system of septic tanks and soak pits.
Purchasing and supplies	Vegetables and fruits are packed in reusable crates while meat and dairy products are stored in freezers. Where possible dry goods are bought in bulk to reduce on the packaging.
Employment and remuneration/staff welfare	Basic Staff benefits at the hotel include food and uniform. The staff at Serena Beach Resort and Spa are under a staff union that handles staff welfare.
Staff education, communication and awareness training	The staff members are regularly trained for skills enhancement across all departments. Notice boards are used to facilitate communication to the staff. The staff are also trained on occupational safety and health as environmental management.
Cultural preservation and promotion/protection of local sites	The Serena Beach Resort promotes the local culture actively in various ways. The architecture of the facility depicts the local Swahili traditional huts with thatched roofs. The facility is dotted with glass cased artifacts, handicrafts, jewellery that depict the local culture and history of the people. The lounge area is also fashioned after the old town in Lamu. Various pieces of décor have blended contemporary designs with the local culture e.g. cushions, Swahili beds, table cloths etc The restaurant also serves some local dishes as part of the culinary experience at Serena. The hotel has cultural nights where the facility celebrates the local cultures of the coast.
Benefits to local community/community empowerment	The facility employs staff primarily from the local area. Approximately 70% of the employees are locals. Serene Beach Resort supports the local community in various aspects related to conservation and enterprise and. They include;  Supporting the local Kikambala Fishing Village. The facility has bough refrigerators for the fishermen to assist in preservation of their catch. Organizing and coordination annual medical camps in collaboration with the Sub-County personnel.  Through the Serena’s annual Light a Life initiative, the facility supports Grandsons of Abraham and Mji wa Salama Children’s Home. The facility has donated shoes, textbooks, food and other school supplies to these homes. This year 22 children’s card wishes out of 80 were paid for by guests, amounting to Ksh 64,246.  Serena offers free of charge refresher courses on food and beverage production and service to the teachers of the local Tewa College.  The facility also gives donations of food items to various homes for the disadvantaged in society such as Nyumba ya Wazee and Little Sisters of the Poor. Serena properties now have three publications targeted for educational reading for children. The publications are stocked and sold in the gift shops. The proceeds from these books are directed to the support of community libraries that Serena has started in Kenya. The hotel also supports various initiatives, fundraisers and functions through voucher donations for meals/ accommodation at the hotel. Through this, the facility has supported a plethora of organizations and activities in Mombasa that involve; culture promotion, conservation, water provision projects etc.
Cultural Criteria
Health and safety	The facility outsources First Aid and fire fighting training annually for all the staff. The resident nurse also does frequent practical skills training on first aid. Food handlers have undergone medical tests in compliance with Food, Drugs, and Chemical substances Act. Cap 25.The facility has an emergency procedure and emergency contacts in place.There is a doctor on call to handle medical emergencies at the resort. In case there is need for evacuation, the facility is also linked with Air Ambulance. Fire exits and assembly points are properly marked and displayed within the facility. The facility has carried out Health and safety Audit and a fire audit.
Child labor, abuse and human rights	The facility has a written policy to show its commitment towards protection of children against forced labor, physical or sexual abuse as well as upholding of human rights.
Business Practises Criteria
Entry Date	6th March 2018

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