sustainability
South Caicos is like no other place in the world. At Salterra, we are taking intentional, proactive action to follow through on our commitment to the stewardship of the island’s magnificent natural resources and rich history. We believe that promoting, bolstering, and celebrating the environmental, social, and cultural elements of South Caicos will be vital to the shared success of our community in the years to come. Providing socially and environmentally conscious travelers with opportunities to participate in our sustainability and conservation efforts first-hand is central to our mission.
Our Commitment
At Salterra, responsible stewardship of South Caicos’ magnificent natural resources and rich history is our highest priority. We believe that “our product is the place,” and that promoting, bolstering, and celebrating the environmental, social, and cultural elements of South Caicos is vital to the success of Salterra Resort & Spa.
As the land and sea share their marvels with us every day, we're committed to paying back this generosity where we can—thanking the island through continued acts of sustainability.
Resort Initiatives
Restoring Coral Reefs
We believe that an investment in the health of corals is an investment in the sustained future of our community and its incredible natural environment. Coral reefs protect coastlines from erosion and storm damage, and they provide a home for marine species, including spotted eagle rays, sharks, sea turtles, and tropical fish. Guests at Salterra have the unique opportunity to get involved, learn about, and contribute to our coral conservation efforts on South Caicos.
Establishing The Coral Reef Consortium
Salterra co-founded the South Caicos Coral Reef Consortium in partnership with the School for Field Studies Center for Marine Resource Studies, the Reef Institute, and the Turks and Caicos Reef Fund. The mission of SCCRC is to research, replant, and restore the coral reefs of South Caicos. As environmental conditions change rapidly, we continuously work to improve the adaptability and resilience of our beautiful reefs.
Eliminating Single-Use Plastics
As a promise to the beautiful marine wildlife that surrounds us, we will not be contributors to plastic pollution. To preserve and protect the natural beauty of South Caicos, Salterra is fully committed to eliminating our use of single-use plastic materials. We empower our guests to be mindful of their plastic waste and water use: all guest rooms will be equipped with filtered water dispensers, reusable water bottles, and glassware.
Preserving the Unique Native Plants of South Caicos
Our mission at Salterra is to seamlessly integrate our property into the beautiful landscape as it naturally exists. We are committed to establishing a nursery that grows native, salt-tolerant, and drought-resistant plants and trees that are well-adapted to the conditions of the island. These plants and trees conserve our limited fresh water and host the beautiful birds and wildlife of South Caicos.
Composting Organic Waste
At Salterra, discarded foods, plant cuttings, paper, coffee pods, and other materials will be composted and utilized with purpose. Our compost will be used to increase the water-holding capacity of sandy soils and improve our landscaping, gardens, and plant nursery.
Utilizing Solar Energy
We will meet more than half of all our energy demands at Salterra by utilizing photovoltaics. Taking advantage of the sunny conditions we enjoy on South Caicos for approximately 350 days per year is vital to the sustainability of our resort. Sourcing energy from renewables does not only decrease our carbon footprint—it provides a storm-resilient and reliable form of electricity.
Community Initiatives
Investing in Youth Educational Opportunities
At Salterra, we believe that youth education is vital to building a better future for South Caicos. Our goal is to help shift the collective consciousness of the community towards more sustainable endeavors that will protect precious natural resources and promote the prosperity of South Caicos. Children are the future—the sooner we educate them about the natural wonders that abound, the sooner South Caicos will flourish.
Partnering with The School for Field Studies
We are collaborating with the School for Field Studies Center for Marine Resource Studies to support community education outreach programs, such as their bi-annual Sea Day. As one of our partners in the South Caicos Coral Reef Consortium, the school shares our mission to identify actionable findings that keep the island’s beautiful coral reef formations thriving.
Engaging the Community with Ocean Conservation
Bonefish are a unique species of schooling fish found on flats in the subtropical and tropical regions of the world. Educating local stakeholders on the immense economic benefit of protecting these populations instead of harvesting them for consumption and low monetary returns is integral to bolstering the ecological and economic health of the South Caicos community. At Salterra, we train and hire local fishermen as bonefish charter guides and captains—this builds awareness in the community and protects vulnerable species from overfishing.
Restoring Community Spaces
The quiet, easygoing pace of island life on South Caicos is infused with a fascinating, unique history. For example, in the late 17th century, South Caicos became a major hub for salt production, attracting Bermudians, buccaneers, and many European powers. Additionally, in 1966, Queen Elizabeth II made a historic visit to South Caicos. At Salterra, we want to celebrate all that makes South Caicos the beautiful community it is today. Restoring and revitalising the numerous historic structures and spaces is vital for the community to remember and celebrate its identity.