Pioneering Sustainability in Glamping with the ERC Protocol
Established in 2009 in Europe and expanding to Australia in 2016, GlamXperience represents the pinnacle of luxury in the glamping industry. Specialising in the design, manufacture, and provision of high-end glamping suppliers, their commitment to sustainability has been a cornerstone from the very beginning. Leon, the CEO is an environmental engineer who emphasis and shows why sustainability is so important to them. This commitment transported seamlessly across continents, adapting to the Australian landscape where sustainability isn't just an option but a necessity, especially in remote, off-grid locations.
From Europe to Australia: A Journey of Adaptation and Sustainability
The transition from Europe to Australia brought about significant challenges and opportunities in equal measure. "Australia was also, is, to be honest, the outdoor country of the world. So, if our product makes sense, it's Australia," Sandra Juffermans, the owner shared during our conversation. Despite their European heritage, GlamXperience embarked on a mission to integrate more deeply with the local economy, shifting from importing 90% of their materials to sourcing them predominantly within Australia. This not only reduced their carbon footprint but also aligned with their ethos of supporting local industries.
Embracing the ERC Protocol
The decision to integrate the ERC Protocol into their business operations was driven by a desire to scrutinise and enhance their sustainability practices. "It was hard to get started...but once I got going, it was pretty easy," explained the owner about their initial experience with the tool.
The ERC Protocol served as a mirror, reflecting not just their achievements but also areas that might need improvement. This introspection led to operational changes, especially in areas like packaging and supply chain management, which were previously overlooked or unknown.
Through the ERC Protocol, GlamXperience discovered sustainable practices already in place that the owner wasn’t aware of but the team was already embracing, such as the reuse of materials in their warehouse. This revelation not only fostered a sense of pride but also highlighted areas for improvement, such as their use of plastic wrapping and cleaning products, sparking a broader dialogue about sustainable practices within the team.
Competitive Edge and Market Positioning
The integration of the ERC Protocol has not only reinforced GlamXperience’s commitment to sustainability but has also enhanced their market positioning. "One of our customers has selected us as their preferred supplier because we're looking after sustainable practices," noted the owner. This shift is particularly relevant in an industry that is increasingly aligning with eco-tourism and sustainable operations, distinguishing GlamXperience as a leader in the field.
Reflections and Recommendations
Reflecting on their journey, Sandra emphasised the importance of starting small and being genuine about sustainability efforts. "Start, for example, just with your toilet paper...It needs to be your initiative," they advised other businesses looking to embark on their sustainability journeys. This approach not only facilitates manageable steps towards sustainability but also ensures that these efforts are authentic and aligned with the business’s core values.
Sandra enthusiastically recommends the ERC Protocol to other businesses. "It makes you think, and sometimes it makes you realise to be proud of something you already have achieved. It's just good for a business now and then, just to step back and look at what you're doing." This endorsement underscores the value of the ERC Protocol in fostering not only a deeper understanding of sustainability practices but also in encouraging a proactive approach to environmental responsibility.
GlamXperience’s journey with the ERC Protocol illustrates the transformative impact of reflective and informed sustainability practices in business. Their story is a testament to the fact that with the right tools and commitment, businesses can not only enhance their operational efficiency but also contribute positively to the global sustainability agenda.
GlamXperience Commitment in Action
At GlamXperience, their commitment to sustainability is not just a statement—it's a practice. Through the insights gained from the ERC Protocol, they have identified several key areas where they can make significant improvements. The following section outlines a few specific actions they are undertaking to reduce their carbon footprint and enhance our environmental stewardship. These initiatives reflect our dedication to leading by example in the industry, ensuring that every step they take is a step towards a more sustainable future.
- They have partnered with Who Gives a Crap
- They implemented a strategy to minimise the unwrapping of materials delivered by suppliers by requesting job-by-job delivery in the appropriate quantities, reducing unnecessary plastic usage.
- They will write a protocol for suppliers
- They will start educating their staff to make them more aware of the landfill.
- They are committed to slashing business travel by 80% in the coming years. One way they are doing this is by showcasing products using a VR experience where customers can explore our offerings together with their teams.
- Currently, 80% of our office staff is carpooling
- Most recently, they have installed solar power panels on the roof of their factory. This new addition will support the running operations of the workshop and factory.
Check out GlamXperience's full Climate Action Plan here.