Cape Point’s responsible approach

Ever wondered how Cape Point is joining other top Cape Town destinations to ensure that we’re both sustainable and responsible?

With the Mother City recently being crowned the world’s Earth Hour capital for 2014 by the WWF, it’s clear that we’re leading the way for other destinations around the world. Here’s a quick look at what we’ve been up to in order to ensure that we’re doing our part.

Community development and support

If you’ve had a chance to interact with our amazing staff at Cape Point, you’ll know that many of them come from surrounding areas, many of which are seen as disadvantaged communities. It’s also an integral part of Cape Point’s plan to grow skills, and staff frequently attend training and field trips to expand their knowledge and develop them as individuals as well.

Community support is also an important part of Cape Point’s responsible tourism approach. In 2013, we went on a blanket drive to support local underprivileged communities of Masipumelelo and Red Hill, and together with Cape Town Tourism and the City of Cape Town, distributed 180 new blankets to local community schools safety houses.

We also support Hokisa, a home in Masiphumelelo – close to Cape Point – for children affected by HIV. Not only do we host them for an annual Christmas party where their Christmas wishes are granted, but we also support them on a continual basis to fil the needs of the children in their care.

Eco-friendly and accessible funicular

As a visitor, you’ve no doubt seen the Flying Dutchman Funicular winding it’s way up the steep hillside towards the old lighthouse, and many wonder just how eco-friendly this impressive machinery is. The funicular is actually electricity driven, and has a magnetic drive which means it uses 50% less electricity. The Funicular is also incredibly quiet with no noise pollution, and is fully wheelchair accessible.

SASSI accredited seafood

The Two Oceans Restaurant, which can see hundreds of patrons passing through its doors each day, manages to keep impeccable green credentials. Seafood obviously features highly on the menu, but you’ll be pleased to know that it’s all WWF SASSI accredited. This means that it contains no local red-listed species, has a focus on promoting sustainable choices, and providing customers with enough information to dine with peace of mind.

Comprehensive packaging, cleaning and recycling processes

On top of this all, 30% of the restaurant’s bottled water is made from plants and is 100% recyclable; all their cleaning products are provided by Ecolab and form part of their approved Green Range; and all packaging is biodegradable and compostable.

As a destination, Cape Point is working hard to move beyond token and symbolic practises, and ensure that all elements of the experience are working towards a common cause of being sustainable and responsible, while ensuring a truly unique experience.

Source: capepoint.co.za