Project Overview

In a significant step towards marine and coastal ecosystem conservation, Heritage Resorts & Golf, a division of Rogers' Hospitality & Travel segment, inaugurated the Heritage Marine Education Centre at C Beach Club, Bel Ombre, in December 2024. Developed in partnership with NGO Reef Conservation, the centre is an innovative educational hub designed to foster awareness and active participation in preserving marine biodiversity.  Through collaborations between Reef Conservation and international organisations such as the European Union and the United Nations Development Programme, the centre also focuses on the regeneration of seagrass and coral reef ecosystems, involving marine biologists in scientific research, education and active community involvement.

Alignment with Rogers's Strategic S&ID Framework

The Heritage Marine Education Centre stands as a testament to the Group’s Sustainability and Inclusive Development Framework, aligning directly with the pillars of Biodiversity and Vibrant Communities. Its main goal is to raise awareness of Bel Ombre’s marine ecosystems and engage both Heritage Resorts & Golf guests and the local community through dynamic activities. The centre offers interactive exhibits focused on lagoon biodiversity, coral reefs, seagrass beds, and coastal forests, providing a complete learning and engaging experience that encourages environmental responsibility and promotes sustainable tourism.

Insights from the team

Axelle Mazery, Chief Brand & Communication Officer and Sustainability Leader at Rogers Hospitality, emphasises the global importance of marine conservation, “Oceans, which cover more than 70% of our planet and contain 95% of its biosphere, play a crucial role in climate regulation by absorbing significant amounts of human-generated CO2 and excess heat. These vast waters support the livelihoods of billions of people and are fundamental to global environmental health. At Rogers Hospitality, we recognise our role in marine education and conservation. While tourism can impact the marine environment, it can also support conservation when managed sustainably.”

Raoul Maurel, Chief Operations Officer of Heritage Resorts & Golf, discusses the integration of environmental education with guest engagement, “Our centre deepens guests' appreciation of the fragile marine ecosystems we strive to protect. This holistic approach to sustainability highlights the imperative of conservation across all operations.”

Inside the Heritage Marine Education Centre

Marine biologists, Anouska Geerowar and Pourani Chinapian, lead the centre's educational efforts, sharing their deep knowledge and passion for marine conservation. From beach walks to sea outings, visitors can learn about the ongoing conservation efforts in the region and actively participate in regeneration initiatives, making the experience both engaging and impactful.

A sustainable future for marine conservation in Bel Ombre

Heritage Resorts & Golf’s collaboration with Reef Conservation is another step toward further protecting marine ecosystems and achieving Rogers Hospitality sustainability goals of promoting education, conservation and regeneration of terrestrial and marine environments, setting a new standard for environmental stewardship within the industry.