CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY POLICY
At Casa Velha do Palheiro, we believe that sustainability is essential for the preservation of the environment and the well-being of future generations. We are committed to reducing the environmental impact of our activities by promoting responsible management of natural resources and encouraging both our staff and guests to adopt sustainable practices.

Environmental Management Goals

1. Certification and Sustainability Commitment
Casa Velha do Palheiro aims to maintain the international Green Key (GK) certification achieved in 2024, reinforcing our commitment to sustainability, including socioeconomic impacts and the well-being of guests and staff.

2. Energy Efficiency
We are committed to reducing energy consumption through:
• Raising employee awareness about energy conservation
• Informing guests about the Green Key program and good environmental practices
• Purchasing efficient equipment (energy class A)
• Using LED bulbs and timer-controlled exterior lighting
• Completely modernizing the domestic hot water system by replacing the gas boiler with high-efficiency heat pumps (class A), enhancing sustainability and reducing energy use

3. Sustainable Water Management
We implement measures to minimize water consumption without compromising guest comfort or safety:
• Installing water-saving devices
• Using rainwater for garden irrigation
• Using heat pumps and solar panels for water heating

4. Waste Reduction and Recycling
We are committed to minimizing waste production and promoting proper separation:
• Providing separate containers for paper, plastic, glass, and general waste for guests
• Including organic waste in the separation process for staff

5. Responsible Use of Chemicals
We prioritize environmentally certified cleaning products and guest amenities to reduce local ecosystem impact.

6. Carbon Offset and Reforestation
Casa Velha do Palheiro has partnered with Greener Act to support a reforestation project at the Palheiro Nature Estate:
• Over 800 trees have been planted, forming a green maze capable of offsetting around 20 tons of carbon per year
• The maze will be open to guests and visitors, who contribute by purchasing trees through the Greener Act platform
• The project's annual carbon offset is equivalent to approximately 40 round trips between Funchal and Lisbon

Social, Cultural, and Economic Management Goals
Casa Velha do Palheiro also establishes clear and integrated guidelines to promote sustainable social, cultural, and economic development, respecting human rights and the dignity of all people. These are based on principles of equity, transparency, inclusion, and accountability, fostering a positive impact on communities.

1. Employment and Labor Rights
We ensure fair and transparent recruitment processes with equal opportunities for all.
We prioritize hiring local residents to encourage community retention and support the local economy.
We fully respect nationally and internationally recognized labor rights.
Child labor is strictly prohibited in all daily operations and supply chains.
We promote dignified working conditions, including fair schedules, adequate pay, and freedom of association.
We do not discriminate based on age, race, sex, religion, disability, sexual orientation, nationality, socioeconomic status, or any other condition.

2. Workplace Safety
We adopt strict safety standards.
All employees are provided with health insurance and access to a specialist in nutrition and wellness at no cost.
We also promote access to a mental health specialist.
We foster a culture of prevention with continuous training in safe practices and emergency response.

3. Training, Information, and Awareness
We support continuous training for staff and community members on social, cultural, environmental, and citizenship topics.
We run awareness campaigns adapted to local contexts.
We value traditional knowledge and promote knowledge exchange.

4. Equality and Human Rights
We respect and promote universal human rights in all our activities.
We fight all forms of discrimination, exclusion, or oppression.
We strongly oppose any form of exploitation or harassment—commercial, sexual, psychological, or physical—especially against children, adolescents, women, minorities, and vulnerable groups.
We value cultural, ethnic, religious, and gender diversity as assets for social and organizational development.
We implement protective measures and provide accessible and safe reporting channels.

5. Support for the Local Community
We stimulate local economic development by valuing community products, services, and knowledge.
We encourage partnerships with community associations and local businesses.
We enforce a zero-tolerance policy for corruption in all its forms.

6. Sustainable Tourism
We promote ethical tourism that respects local cultures and the environment.
We ensure tourism does not compromise natural or cultural resources or negatively impact the local community.


Cátia Afonso
Hotel Manager
Casa Velha do Palheiro – Relais & Châteaux