OUR ENVIRONMENTAL INTERPRETER PROGRAM

Description of Good Practice

In June 2001, we launched an environmental Interpreter program. The program involves the introduction of an Environmental Interpreter at our resort, to be a reference point for staff and clients on the company’s sustainable policy and to serve as an ambassador of the policy of the surrounding communities.

The program was launched with three objectives in mind:

1. to raise client's awareness about environmental issues in their destination

2. to support the dissemination and integration of sustainable principles and practices to resort staff and management, thus bridging the gap between the corporate sustainability policy and the resort-based operational staff

3. to increase understanding and strengthen co-operation between Our Tour operators and the surrounding communities

Temple Point clear tasks and responsibilities for the Environmental Interpreter, includes:

1. Being the reference point on environmental, social and cultural issues

2. Take part in the clients briefings, to inform them about how to have a sustainable holiday

3. Organize informative meetings on destinations key environmental features (coral reefs, mangrove forests, Wildlife etc.)

4. Establish and maintaining contacts with local authorities and organizations to enhance greater participation.

5. Cooperate with other staff in the resort to develop common activities (recreation, kids club, diving…)

6. Cooperate with the staff responsible for the organization of excursions to select and brief suppliers  on sustainable criteria and to include briefings in the excursions

7. Collect general information on sustainable issues in the Country

8. Interact with the hotel management to support the introduction of sustainability practices in management

The Environmental Interpreter should have:

1. knowledge of environment and ecology, and sustainability in general

2. understanding of the principles of anthropology and sociology of tourism

3. proficiency in the language of the Clients & The Country

4. experience in environmental education

5. good communication skill

6. knowledge and experience on destination-specific subjects (such as coral reef & Mangrove & wildlife)

Program development also focused on creating and gathering materials to support the work of the interpreters, including books and other printed matter on general and the Country’s specific environmental issues, a reference manual developed internally by the Interpreter, and materials designated to teach children about sustainable issues.

BENEFITS

For Our clients, the program represents an additional value to their holidays, allowing them to discover environmental, cultural and social characteristic of their destinations that most likely would have remained hidden. In the general comments section of the guests’ questionnaire, several encouraging comments have been expressed, demonstrating guests’ appreciation for these efforts.