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The Solar Branco Eco Estate

Eco Hotel Goals

We believe in leading the way in the Azores in the world of eco-hotels and sustainability. A belief that it is not a race but everyone’s responsibility in the hotel industry to do more for the world we live in. Our work will always be ongoing on the estate and we are more than happy to share our ideas. For the latest updates check out our sustainability area for more information on what we are doing.

As we restore and build the hotel and estate we are incredibly proud of our execution to be the first in sustainability and eco-tourism in key areas such as:

The first hotel to be a zero food waste organisation in the Azores
A 100% organic and pesticide-free hotel and estate
First and only certified Shinrin Yoku / Forest Bathing guide in the Azores
Free recycling of Christmas trees on the estate (saving them from landfill)
The first hotel in the Azores to commit 1% of profit to charity

 

A full list of sustainability steps and initiatives coming soon.

 

By year our commitment to sustainability and eco-tourism includes:

2019 sustainability plans:
First and only certified Shinrin Yoku / Forest Bathing guide in the Azores
Restoring the lands from agriculture back to nature and replanting an orange grove with heritage trees
Building 2 natural ponds to encourage insects and frogs
Reclaimed materials (woods, tiles) used throughout the buildings and experiences
Chickens onto the estate reared on organic ingredients
Purchase of additional farmland to start to restore the ground for planting in 2020
On-site composting



2020 sustainability plans:
The first organisation in the Azores to be selected as part of 1t.org from The World Economic Forum
The first hotel in the Azores to commit to a zero-waste food program
E-Bikes on the estate with charging facilities
Rainwater collection and irrigation to the ponds
No pesticides under any circumstances
Local community events



2021 sustainability plans:
On-site beehives (both wild and hives for harvesting honey)
Companion planting plans for the grounds
Bees friendly and encouragement habitat throughout the gardens


2022 sustainability plans:
At least 1% donation made to The Ocean Azores Foundation based on profits
Electric vehicles for house cars
Simplified, reduced finishes, such as the brushed concrete in all buildings
Carefully designed lighting and lighting controls that optimise comfort for guests
Building-level energy metering
Locally constructed furniture
Energy Star score of 95 (one of the most energy-efficient hotels in the Azores)
Plumbing fixtures 25% more efficient than the LEED requirements for flow rates
Double glazed windows to increase the use of daylight and energy efficiency
Energy-efficient and mercury-free LED lighting installed throughout
On-site 100% organic vegetable and herb garden utilising
Water conservation built into the estate


2023 sustainability plans:
At least 1% donation made to The Ocean Azores Foundation based on profits
More details coming soon
On-site beehives (both wild and hives for harvesting honey)
Transportation program that supports team members with lower carbon commuting alternative
100% organic cotton linens (TBC) – Chalkboards in rooms instead of pads of paper
Electric vehicle charging stations for guests
Electric vehicles for house cars (TBC)
Building-level energy metering
Locally constructed furniture



Our message is simple: “Breathe in the clear Atlantic air as you take in the view. Hideout, forage and think in peace. Put your phone down, laugh out loud and enjoy life with those around you. Create memories, and return one day to the Azores to revisit them.”