Sustainability

Simple actions you can take to support the people and places you visit

We all travel for different reasons and many of us would agree that one of the best things about travel is having new and unique experiences. Because people, culture, history, wildlife and scenery play such important roles in our travel experiences, protecting and supporting these things should be at the heart of every tourism and travel organisation, and every traveller.

As a Travelife Certified accommodation, P’apiu Ha Giang puts sustainability at the heart of our business. To maintain Travelife Certification, properties must achieve full compliance with one of the world’s most extensive sustainability standards for accommodations and undergo a complete site audit every two years.

We believe that the most significant impact occurs when many individuals take small actions. We can only succeed in our efforts to improve if our dear guests are also willing to contribute through simple actions. We encourage you to continue reading to discover how you can enhance the positive impact of your stay. 

Researching your trip

Booking Travel: Whenever possible, choose companies that actively work to enhance their environmental and social impacts. The best options will publish annual sustainability reports and hold independent certifications from reputable sustainability labels like Travelife.

Culture: Travel becomes more enjoyable when you’re aware of how to respect local customs and cultures. Knowing simple things, such as how to tip, dress appropriately, or say thank you, can be very helpful before your arrival.

Ground Transport: To reduce congestion, pollution, and emissions, select taxi and transfer companies with low-emission fleets. Consider using public transport and exploring the area on foot or by bike when it’s safe and practical.

Caring for Others: We take a proactive role and approach to safeguarding children from sexual exploitation and exploitative labor. Our staff was well trained with Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation on the topic. We also collaborate with Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation to actively address human trafficking in Vietnam, especially in Ha Giang. We encourage you to learn how to recognize signs of trafficking, abuse, or exploitation, and please reach out to us to report any such situations you may encounter.

Packing Tips

Pack Light: Whether traveling by plane, train, ship, or car, carrying less reduces fuel consumption and lowers emissions.

Pack to Bring It Back: Leaving unwanted items behind contributes to pollution in places with inadequate waste management systems, and adds stress to local waste management everywhere.

Personal Care Products: Avoid shampoos, lotions, and gels containing microbeads, as these can negatively impact biodiversity. Many countries have already prohibited these products, so please do not pack them.

Sunscreens: Some ingredients in sun protection products can be harmful to marine life and coral reefs, even in small amounts and from shower runoff. Choose marine-safe alternatives if your sunscreen contains any of the following: Oxybenzone, Benzophenone-1, Benzophenone-8, OD-PABA, 4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor, 3-Benzylidene Camphor, nano-Titanium Dioxide, nano-Zinc Oxide, Octinoxate, or Octocrylene.

Single-Use Plastics: Bringing single-use plastics only adds to disposal challenges, especially in destinations lacking safe disposal options. Opt for reusable alternatives or products made from recycled paper instead of plastic.

At Our Accommodation

Temperature: Maintaining a comfortable room temperature is important; however, it significantly contributes to greenhouse gas emissions in accommodations. You can help by adjusting the thermostat only when necessary and turning off heating or cooling units whenever doors or windows are open.

Water: Sourcing and disposing of water generates greenhouse gas emissions, and in some areas, water is a valuable resource. Contribute by taking shorter showers, turning off the tap while brushing your teeth, and using low-flush options in toilets.

Eating and Drinking: Approximately one-third of food produced is wasted, contributing to a significant portion of greenhouse gas emissions. Help reduce this by ordering only what you will eat, choosing local foods over imported ones, and opting for more meat-free meals during your stay.

Recycling: Recycling rules vary by location and can be confusing while traveling. Be sure to ask our staff about what can be recycled and the proper procedures to follow.

Supporting the Local Community

Support Local Businesses: Opt to dine and shop at locally owned businesses. When purchasing gifts or mementos, seek out handcrafted items by local artists or products from small businesses.

Explore the Culture and Area: Explore the Culture and Area: Enhance your experience by allocating time to discover local sites, culture, and activities. Feel free to reach out to our staff for recommendations and assistance with arrangements.

Respecting People: Familiarize yourself with local laws, customs, and traditions, and be sure to observe them. Avoid taking photos or videos of individuals without their permission, especially if you plan to share them online. Remember that only parents or legal guardians can permit photos of children.

Safeguard Children: Refrain from participating in activities that may harm children, such as orphanage or school visits that disrupt education or lead to exploitation. The most effective way to support children is by donating to reputable charities. 

IN CASE YOU SUSPECT ANY FORM OF CHILD EXPLOITATION OR ABUSE DURING YOUR VISIT OR IN THE TOURISM AREA, PLEASE CONTACT US OR GET IN TOUCH WITH THE FOLLOWING HOTLINES IMMEDIATELY:

– National Child Protection Hotline: 111
– Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation Hotline in Vietnam: 024 3717 2307

THANK YOU FOR JOINING P’APIU IN PREVENTING CHILD TRAFFICKING AND ABUSE

Protect Biodiversity: Dispose of your waste properly and adhere to guidelines designed to protect natural areas, such as forests. Avoid taking materials from these locations, and make sure to leave no trace behind.

Support Local Charities: If you enjoyed your time at your destination and wish to give back, consider supporting a local improvement initiative or charity. Ask staff at our accommodation for suggestions for established projects, such as fundraising for a new medical center, enhancing a local park, or protecting an important natural area.

We kindly ask for your support in helping us achieve our sustainability goals.

By taking simple actions such as conserving water, reducing waste, and limiting the use of single-use plastics, you can make a significant difference. Together, we can protect the environment and ensure a more sustainable future for the community and our planet. Thank you for being a part of our efforts to create a more eco-friendly experience!