An English Bluebell Wood Evokes a Feeling of Being Cared For

We don’t use the word sustainability that often on this web site for the simple reason that it is failing to either communicate or inspire.

At its root, the verb “to sustain” means to prolong or endure and, as such, it could means business as usual. We simply don’t believe it’s possible to continue to think or act the way we’ve become accustomed without reaping negative consequences down the road or reducing the choices open to the generations that follow ours. To become sustainable, as in to be able to live within the means imposed by the natural world,  we have to change the way we do things.  Thus the word sustainability should be synonymous with innovation and change.

As a result, our language has to change too – become so much clearer and more direct. That’s why we like the concept of “Places That Care”.

Once you’ve shifted from an outdated industrial to an ecological mindset that focuses on:

“We” versus “I”

Collaboration versus Competition

Interdependence versus Independence

Values & quality of life  over Material wealth

you realise that the primary guiding principal going forward is the same as the Golden Rule: “to treat others as you would be treated. ” That’s why we think the word CARE needs to dominate our thinking, our vocabulary and inform our actions.

Conscious leaders are,  like the Knight Gawain in the Fischer Tale, the ones who ask the Wounded King “what ails thee” and “how may I serve?”

That’s why we suggest that Conscious Hosts create “Places That Care” be they their own place of business or the resort, village, town, region or country  in which they operate. Because Conscious Hosts think in wholes not pieces, they consider the impact of their actions on all stakeholders as well as their guests and investors. That means:

  • living in harmony with the natural environment and taking specific actions to minimize waste and conserve or, where possible, revitalize, the local natural environment;
  • respecting, sustaining and revitalizing local cultures and contributing to developing and conveying a unique sense of place;
  • providing a positive, flourishing work environment in which employees are appropriately rewarded and recognized; enjoy a fair wage; and have the opportunity to grow and develop.
  • Using and supporting local suppliers  who can demonstrate that they act responsibly;
  • Returning an above average and sustainable financial return to their investors
  • Being viewed as a positive force for good in their local community.
Places That Care are destinations where there is a conscious, considered  effort to maximise value and benefit in these six domains in addition to the benefit enjoyed by guests. To see blog posts relevant to each of these topics, click the headings below:
Environment
Local Culture & Social Cohesion
Supporting Local, Responsible  Suppliers
Creating sustainable, positive returns to investors
Being viewed as a positive force for good in the community
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