Hotels Taking Steps Towards Sustainability in Ribeira Brava

Quinta do Cabouco, a quaint bed and breakfast, takes pride in its commitment to sustainable practices. The building's design encourages optimal air flow and natural light, reducing the need for artificial climate control and lighting. This eco-friendly ethos extends to reforestation and wildlife conservation initiatives, facilitated by a dedicated environmental manager. In-room signage informs guests that towel changes are conducted only upon request, emphasizing the establishment's dedication to resource conservation.

One of the standout aspects of Quinta do Cabouco is its zero-waste approach. Waste is meticulously sorted into at least three categories, with organic waste composted and all disposable items, such as cups, glasses, plates, and cutlery, completely eliminated. Also setting this bed and breakfast apart is its own organic garden, flourishing with fruit trees, vegetables, and flowers. Not only does the garden create a serene ambiance, but its produce, shared generously with guests, also serves as a testament to Quinta do Cabouco's commitment to local sourcing. In fact, the majority of ingredients used in meal preparation come from local producers, reinforcing their support for the community while simultaneously reducing their carbon footprint.

Hotel Orca Praia, a leading property in the eco-friendly hotel industry, is deeply committed to sustainable practices, adopting numerous renewable energy systems. A significant solar system provides a vast capacity of 9,000 liters for sanitary water heating. This is supplemented by a biomass boiler, certified by TUV, that efficiently recycles paper, card, wood, and other bio-substances to generate heat for sanitary water. Adding to the environmental friendliness, the swimming pool is maintained through electrolysis of salt, eliminating harmful chemicals and preventing allergies. Hotel Orca Praia has made significant strides in decarbonization by curtailing the usage of petroleum-based products and making a shift towards Green Energy. Moreover, the hotel fosters self-reliance by harnessing energy from photovoltaic panels.

The hotel prides itself on a comprehensive management system that boasts the quality and environment accreditations of ISO 9001 and ISO 14001. Additionally, a HACCP system is in place, reinforcing the hotel's commitment to safety and quality standards. It's applied to various services provided by the hotel, including accommodation, food and beverage, leisure activities, and courtesy transport to Funchal's city center. Pro-active measures, such as promoting recycling and electric vehicle use among guests, are continually implemented, with a keen focus on reducing environmental impacts and carbon footprint. The Green Key certification, among others, stands as a testament to their dedication to constant improvement. Hotel Orca Praia also gives food safety and hygiene paramount importance, ensuring quick and efficient response to any needs or issues. This commitment to continuous betterment and stakeholder satisfaction places Hotel Orca Praia at the forefront of eco-friendly hospitality.

Calhau Grande, with its roots embedded in the charming region of Arco da Calheta, is an eco-conscious haven that honours the natural landscape. From the start, the family behind Calhau Grande aimed to minimize their impact on the surrounding environment, carefully restoring traditional houses to blend seamlessly with the rural setting. This family project breathes new life into antique structures, whilst preserving the unique Madeiran dry-stone architectural design. His careful choice of rehabilitation techniques and materials ensures that even the new structures, including a meticulously placed swimming pool, have minimal impact on the countryside surroundings.

Embracing a truly eco-living ethos, Calhau Grande balances its built area with abundant green spaces teeming with local flora. Clever use of natural springs provides irrigation for their gardens, preserving potable water, and creating a habitat for local wildlife. Additionally, the cottages are thoughtfully designed with ample glass walls to harness natural light and warmth, reducing the need for artificial temperature regulation. A range of eco-friendly measures underscore their commitment to the environment: from the use of natural products and minimal chemicals, to recycling organic waste for fertilizer, and even producing their own solar-powered energy, making the establishment self-sufficient. A commitment to eco-friendly laundry services and handcrafted furniture from recycled wood further enhance the sustainable footprint of this delightful retreat.