Nature becomes a strategic issue for businesses, from hospitality to finance

Speakers from the region emphasized the strong links between ecosystem health, business resilience, and financial risks. Representatives from Mauritian companies, including Sunlife and Absa Mauritius, shared their perspectives and ongoing actions. Clency Romeo, Chief Sustainability Officer of Sunlife Mauritius, noted the clear connection between biodiversity and the hospitality industry, where nature is essential to the tourist experience.

He stated that visitors are drawn by images of turquoise lagoons, beaches, and tropical vegetation, which contribute to the destination's identity. Nature provides a "sense of place" that hotels cannot manufacture, enriching the guest experience through activities like beach walks and snorkeling. However, the industry must also acknowledge its impact, including water and energy consumption, waste generation, and construction.

Sunlife has implemented measures such as using recycled water for irrigation and involving guests in planting and food waste reduction efforts. Romeo stressed that sustainability should enrich, not restrict, the guest experience, and businesses must invest in natural assets as much as physical ones. Nathan Carr, Chief of Staff, Head of Legal, and Head of Sustainability at Absa Mauritius, extended this discussion to the financial sector,