The implementation of hydroponics situated at the impressive water feature within the extensive organic herb and vegetable garden is showing favourable signs even at this early stage – the first crops are Waterblommetjie and Watercress. Guy Gorrie, the Executive Chef who recently joined Hotel Izulu’s eco-team is already preparing and perfecting his recipe for chilled Watercress soup, just in time for the new summer menu to be launched at Gigi’s restaurant.
Hydroponics @ Hotel Izulu - photograph by Pete Unsworth
Newly appointed General Manager, Grant Pringle comments; “Here at Hotel Izulu we are constantly thinking of ways to reduce our footprint on the earth while maintaining 5-star luxury, proving that it can be done with style. The quality of the cuisine at Gigi’s restaurant is extremely important to us and through the hydroponically grown produce we can ensure the finest quality for our guests and also save on transport costs and packaging. As time goes by and we learn more, further ‘green’ elements will be adopted.”
Solar heating for the hotel’s hot water has been implemented, which helps the laundry department enormously, the Vermiculture – worm factory – probably one of the largest installations in any South African hotel is yielding great rewards, created in order to nourish the successful organic herb, vegetable garden and orangery. The ‘Worm Tea’ is even sold in the hotels boutique.
Taking water saving to another level, the hotel has managed to reduce its water consumption by 50% with the clever use of new eco-friendly showerheads that aerate the water to give a spa like feel while saving on water and electricity.
Blogger Muzi Mohale
I’m Muzi Mohale, based in Roodepoort (South Africa). Blogger with www.travelwires.com. Love Travelwires.com since I get to travel our beautiful country through blogging and get first hand tourism experience.
Thanks for the post. I found this very interesting!