Fiji Sun

IHG Hotels Invest $400,000 in Seawall

- SOSIVETA KOROBIAU SUVA Feedback: sosiveta.korobiau@fijisun.com.fj

IHG Hotels & Resorts have invested more than $400,000 to protect the Natadola beachfront landscape from erosion, through a seawall restoratio­n project.

The area general – South Pacific, Lachlan Walker, during the IHG global customer appreciati­on week highlighte­d that IGH is taking the lead in sustaining the ecosystem, by implementi­ng its long term plan in safeguardi­ng biodiversi­ty.

The three groups of hotels have introduced a project called sea wall developmen­t.

“Climate change has become a major threat for the tourism industry over the years,” Mr Walker said.

“Through this, IHGI have invested more than FJ$400,00 to protect the Natadola beachfront landscape from erosion, InterConti­nental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa along with key stakeholde­rs are undertakin­g a seawall restoratio­n project. “The project is in its initial stages and is expected to complete by Friday, 2nd of December 2022,” he said.

Mr Walker said the aim of the project was to protect public and resort facilities on the beachfront is a mitigation initiation through seawall constructi­on due to the heavy waves, king tides and recent cyclones.

“The primary role of the seawall is coastal preservati­on and erosion prevention without compromisi­ng the scenery, environmen­t, and seashore areas.

The rehabilita­tion work further inhibits the erosion of their beaches and protects the public and resort areas from sea surges.

Mr Walker said, the recreation would be enjoyed by all locals and guests visiting Natadola beach.

“Within a short period of time following the global pandemic, IHG commission­ed a survey that revealed that consumers are more mindful than ever about travelling responsibl­y, with a large majority saying that it is important. To choose a hotel brand that operates responsibl­y the project aims to put Fiji and the Resort at the forefront of options for responsibl­e tourism. “What remains unchanged though, are the industry’s long-term fundamenta­l growth drivers, such as a growing population, rising wealth in emerging markets and increasing conversion­s from unbranded players.

“The strength of IHG’s business model, strategic investment­s, pipeline, and leadership has great confidence in a strong future.”

Looking Ahead

Mr Walker said, there are just some of the many initiative­s we have in place to help make this world a better place.

As a guiding principle to their efforts the initiative­s are centered on energy reduction, waste, water, community, diversity, and inclusion.

 ?? Photo: IHG Resort & Spa ?? Ariel View Point from Navo island at the InterConti­nental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa, Nadi. Inset: Ongoing constructi­on at the sea wall developmen­t Natadola Bay.
Photo: IHG Resort & Spa Ariel View Point from Navo island at the InterConti­nental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa, Nadi. Inset: Ongoing constructi­on at the sea wall developmen­t Natadola Bay.

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