Environmental Policies
Our Expectations
The sustainability of our earth, as we know it, depends on each and every one of us, and we must remain conscious of its vulnerability and accountable for its preservation.
With awareness of our impact arises the duty to do our best. On this basis, we suggest some simple practices that could help make Fajã dos Padres even more sustainable. Please apply them here, and everywhere else you go to minimise your footprint and pave the way for responsible tourism.
Rest assured, our measures will not compromise your comfort but instead allow you to support and embody our culture and efforts.
Biodiversity
Fajã dos Padres is an organic farm with a large variety and genetic variability of exotic fruits and edible plants.
This is home to several endemic plants such as Massaroqueiro (Echium candicans) or Goivo-da-rocha (Matthiola madeirensis), please do not damage plants.
During your stay you will find several marine bird species, in special Cagarra (Culonectris diomedea borealis), a migrating sea bird who breeds and nest in the cliff producing a unique vocalization during the nights (from March to October).
You will come across Lagartixas (Podarcis duguesii), a reptile who feeds on fruits and insects, as well as small spiders, all harmless.
On the beach, some coastal molluscs and small crustaceans are recognised very easily, and if you do some snorkelling, you will be able to discover some common fish species found in Madeira Islands.
The Lobo-marinho (Monachus monachus) is the rearest seal species worldwide. Please avoid interaction if you observe an individual lying on the beach and report the sightings at Reception. This data is highly valued and important in studies on the species.
Energy
Make sure the lights are turned off before leaving your house
Pay attention to exterior lights that can be easily left turned on
Open the windows. Take advantage of natural lightning
Turn off equipment not being used
Well-Being
Relax
Feel the atmosphere, enjoy the sea breeze and bird songs
Take some early walks and jogging around the property
Request for Yoga or Tai chi chuan classes, and Ayurveda massages (extra-cost)
Please do not smoke in the Casa
Smart Shopping
Avoid the excess of plastic bags and packaging
Support local!
Try our Organic fruits and vegetables (they’re good!)
Waste
Do not throw waste down the toilet
Deliver empty batteries at the Reception
Separate your waste:
Bucket with lid Organic
Yellow bag Packaging
Blue bag Paper and cardboard
Green bag Glass
Grey bag Undifferentiated waste
Water
Take a quick shower and close the tap after every use, while soaping or washing your teeth
In the toilet, whenever possible, press the flush button only halfway
In order not to spend unnecessarily water on washes, the change of bed linen and towels is done once per week or in fewer intervals at your request:
Pillow on the floor Change the bed sheets
Pillow in bed Will be reused
Towel on the floor Change the towel
Towel on the rod I’m still using it
Learn about our Environmental & Social Activities
Water Use
Water supplied through a desalination process is directly used for irrigation and human consumption
This significantly reduces waste disposal, water use, energy for transportation, and the need for single-use plastic.
We inspect water flow and use water saving devices and sensors
As a result we can precisely monitor water use and set use reduction targets.
We are careful with how we treat wastewater – avoiding chemicals and sticking to eco-labeled products
Therefore we can eliminate chemical contamination of subsequent irrigation.
Waste Disposal
Our waste disposal processes are optimised by organising by type of waste and whether they can be transformed and reused.
By estimating the volume and type of waste produced for a given business activity, we can plan and optimise accordingly.
Agricultural waste is fed back into the system via composting and animal feed.
Similarly, in all other contexts the term ´waste´ is critically challenged as we embody the sentiment that the best disposal method is reuse.
We rely on overnight guests to diligently sort their waste into the appropriate bins provided in their accommodations.
Buying Local
We aim to run our supply chain locally:
- Our diversified garden is a powerhouse for organic produce, while our one-of-a-kind Malvasia Cândida vineyards hold cultural significance, allowing for the traditional production of Madeira wine
- Unsold fruit makes excellent jams- found at our restaurant along with our seasonal produce and historically celebrated wine
Consequently, this reduces food waste and environmental costs associated with distribution.
Empowering Traditions
Cultural sovereignty and Madeiran traditions are empowered at Fajã Dos Padres. Our restaurant menu honours local cuisines as it features various cherished Madeiran meals. This is intended to reinforce cultural identity and pride within our staff and local community.
Similarly, we’ve protected our architectural heritage by preserving buildings dating back from centuries. Our guest houses are sourced with sustainable and local raw materials, traditional construction techniques, and artisan furniture.
Energy Use
Our ambition to achieve energy self-sufficiency is advancing as we continue to invest in solar panel installations as well as prioritise the use of energy-efficient and electricity-powered equipment alternatives.