Dive into the Conservation Collective

The travel industry’s environmental impact is under the microscope, and it’s our responsibility to do our bit to help suffering ecosystems in every corner of the globe. That’s why SJ Villas has partnered with the Conservation Collective, an organisation that launches and funds international foundations exactly where they’re most needed – be it close to home in Devon’s agricultural heartland or further away on habitat protection in the Dalmatian Islands.

Conservation Collective’s model was conceived in 2008, when lifelong nature-lover Ben Goldsmith and some friends launched IbizaPreservation. With a shared love for the island and its sustainable growth, the group quickly realised the difficulty in accessing much-needed funds – only 3 per cent of charitable giving is directed towards saving the natural world. Looking outwards from the Balearics, Conservation Collective has since created a network of donors and agencies, dedicated to channelling monetary aid to local groups working to protect the environment, restore nature and safeguard against climate change.

Now a fully fledged UK-registered charity with 20 global foundations, Conservation Collective sparked SJ Villas’ interest when it partnered with the Barbados Environmental Conservation Trust (BECT). With our long-standing connection to the Caribbean island, we have a profound fondness for a certain sea-life creature that brings endless charm to the sun-kissed shores: the turtle. And BECT feels the same. Mobilising $100,000 for the Barbados Sea Turtle Project, the charity saw the continued rescue and care of the endangered species throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, and has since supported reef restoration and coral growth via pioneering Biorock technology. Ché Greenidge, BECT’s executive director, told us how the organisation also runs a nesting-beach monitoring programme for hawksbill turtles: ‘It’s one of the longest-running conservation efforts for critically endangered hawksbill turtles in the western hemisphere,’ she says, ‘Barbados being a significant nesting site for these turtles in the Caribbean, ​​with up to 500 females nesting annually’.

But wildlife conservation isn’t the only issue faced by Barbados, as Greenidge explains: ‘As a Small Island Developing State, Barbados is particularly vulnerable to the severe impacts of climate change. Rising sea levels are eroding its coastlines, leading to the loss of vital land and the destruction of coastal ecosystems. This not only endangers the island’s natural habitats, but also puts infrastructure, homes and the tourism industry at risk. Biodiversity loss, on land and at sea, is another pressing issue, as unique and endemic species face the threat of extinction, as a result of habitat degradation, pollution and climate change.

‘Additionally, food insecurity is becoming an increasing concern, exacerbated by the challenges of sustainable agriculture in the face of changing weather patterns and limited land resources. The island’s freshwater supply is also under strain, with droughts becoming more frequent and severe. These environmental challenges are interconnected, creating a complex web of issues that require urgent and coordinated action to safeguard the future of Barbados.’

BECT has done more than its fair share to tackle these, raising more than $400,000 to deliver 20 community-led projects and initiatives with positive environmental impacts across its five focus areas: marine conservation, biodiversity protection, waste management, local food security and renewable energy.

But there’s always more work to be done, not least by the travel industry. Greenidge goes on: ‘To sustain their industry, tourism businesses must protect the very environment that draws tourists. Without pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs and thriving wildlife, the very attractions that draw visitors to Barbados would be at risk.’

With this in mind, BECT introduced a $1 initiative, enabling businesses to contribute a dollar from each purchase to fund important local ecological projects. On an even more human level, establishing a good “neighbourhood watch” is equally as important, and BECT urges people to call the 24-hour Sea Turtle Hotline [see below], so hotel staff and sun-seekers alike can play their part in reporting sightings and emergencies.

It’s not all doom and gloom, though, and there are many ways that travellers to the stunning island can positively impact the natural environment while creating unforgettable memories. As they continue to nurture local pride and transform grassroots initiatives across Barbados, Conservation Collective has rounded up the top things to keep in mind when you book that island trip of a lifetime with SJ Villas:

1. Choose eco-friendly accommodation

Opt for villas that prioritise sustainability, such as those that use renewable energy, reduce waste and engage in conservation projects.

2. Support local conservation initiatives.

Consider donating to organisations such as the Barbados Environment Conservation Trust (BECT) or participating in eco-friendly tours that contribute to local conservation efforts.

3. Be mindful of wildlife

Keep a safe distance, don’t disturb nesting sites, and avoid the use of lights and flash photography. Sea turtles can be dazzled by the lights of beachfront hideaways, causing them to stray from their natural path to the ocean, so pull down those blackout blinds.

4. Keep your eyes peeled

The Barbados Sea Turtle Project operates a 24-hour Sea Turtle Hotline to monitor sightings and address sea turtle emergencies. Call (246) 230-0142 if you see a nesting or hatching turtle, a nest threatened by high tides, or hatchlings disorientated by lights.

5. Reduce your environmental footprint

Minimise your use of plastic (use a reusable water bottle), reduce water consumption during showers, and choose sustainable transportation options, such as biking or walking, to explore the island.