Sustainability Performance Identification Policy

Purpose

This policy outlines the methodology Where It All Began (WIAB) uses to identify and evaluate the sustainability performance of our key supply chain businesses. As a sustainable adventure travel business, our commitment is to ensure that the suppliers we work with uphold high standards of sustainability, thereby contributing to environmental conservation, social equity, and economic viability.

Scope

This policy applies to all suppliers directly or indirectly associated with WIAB, including but not limited to tour operators and accommodation providers.

Methodology

1. Supplier Selection Criteria

We select our suppliers based on the following criteria:

• Sustainability Certifications (if available/relevant)
• Sustainable practices in transportation, waste management, water usage, and energy management.
• Ethical employment and procurement practices
• Ownership and community impact, with a focus on supporting black-owned businesses
• Published sustainability commitments and action plans

2. Evaluation Process

Tour Operators

For tour operators, the evaluation process includes:

1. Certification Verification: Checking for relevant sustainability certifications.
2. Sustainability Practices Assessment: Evaluating their methods of transportation, waste management, and water usage.
3. Employment Practices Review: Ensuring ethical terms of employment for their staff.
4. Ownership and Impact: Prioritizing small-scale and black-owned businesses with a focus on community impact.

Current Tour Operators:

• Cape Velo
• Culture Connect
• The Fynbos Guy
• Hannival’s Tours
• Camissa Tours

These operators were chosen due to their:

• Small scale
• Sustainable methods of transportation (in three cases)
• Black ownership (in two cases)
• Sustainability policies regarding waste management and water usage
• Ethical employment terms

3. Accommodation Providers

For accommodation providers, the evaluation process includes:

1. Certification Verification: Recording which accommodations have obtained Fair Trade Tourism (FTT) or other relevant certifications.
2. Sustainability Practices Review: Checking for published indications of sustainability practices related to recycling waste, water and energy management, and other eco-friendly initiatives.
3. Ambition and Planning: Assessing their commitment and future plans towards enhancing sustainability.


Current Accommodation Providers – FTT Accredited:

• Point B
• The Vineyard
• The Peech
• Three Tree Hill
• Whalesong Lodge

Non-FTT Accredited but Reviewed for Sustainability Practices:

• The Saxon
• Sanbona

For non-FTT accredited accommodations, we look for:

• Published sustainability actions and indicators
• Ambition and planning towards future sustainability improvements

4. Continuous Monitoring and Improvement

We continuously monitor and review our suppliers’ sustainability performance through:

• Regular check-ins and updates on their sustainability initiatives
• Encouraging and supporting suppliers to achieve sustainability certifications
• Providing feedback and resources to help them improve their sustainability practices

Key Results:

Through this rigorous evaluation and selection process, WIAB ensures that:

• Our tour operators and accommodations uphold high sustainability standards.
• We support businesses with a genuine commitment to environmental, social, and economic sustainability.
• Our clients experience sustainable travel that minimizes environmental impact and promotes positive community engagement.

By adhering to this policy, Where It All Began reaffirms its commitment to leading the way in sustainable adventure travel and fostering a network of responsible and ethical suppliers.