Sustainability at Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp

At &Beyond we seek to maintain a low impact on the land while deriving high yield for our conservation initiatives by creating very small luxury lodges that support enormous tracts of biodiverse land, which remains untouched. At every lodge we seek out small (and sometimes not so small) but meaningful ways of putting our values into action every day. Each &Beyond lodge supports the conservation of wildlife and contributes to its neighbouring communities in one way or another. In addition, we seek to limit our impact in terms of fossil fuels, the use of renewable energy, water and waste management, and recycling.

For example, at Nxabega waste and septic tanks are managed through the use of biodegradable cleaning products.

Environmental Responsibility

In operating Nxabega Okavango Safari Camp, &Beyond keeps environmental impacts to a minimum. The lodge itself has been built around the vegetation rather than clearing trees. All dry waste is packaged and sent to recycling plants in Maun, while wet waste is compacted and enclosed in hyena-proof containers. Guides are sent on courses to increase their knowledge of, and sensitivity towards, the environment.

Monitoring Wattled Crane and other wetland bird species

Through its financial support of BirdLife Botswana, Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp is contributing to research work which aims to gain a better understanding of the population dynamics and ecological requirements of various wetland-dependent birds including the endangered Wattled Crane. These species are important indicators of the health of the Okavango Delta.

Sing For Life: Battle of the African Voices

Nxabega Okavango Safari Camp recently won the battle of the voices at &Beyond's "Sing for Life" competition for Africa's southern region. The "Sing for Life" competition is aimed at inspiring &Beyond's staff and communities at over 44 safari camps and lodges to have goals to work towards, and to instill a sense of pride in their African culture through showcasing their talents and voices. "Sing for Life" was formed in conjunction with &Beyond's Positive Health initiative which aims to improve the uptake of positive health programmes to address chronic illnesses, including HIV and AIDS.