The protection and responsible management of Song Saa Private Island’s natural assets is an absolute imperative for us, as are our social programs to support local communities.

We currently have a team of four people working with government and non-government organisations, conservation authorities and community leaders to ensure Song Saa Private Island never loses the things that make it so special.

We have established a marine reserve covering one million square metres and extending 200 metres from the outer edge of the reefs that fringe both islands. This no-take zone is being managed to international standards for marine protected areas, and scoping studies are underway to significantly expand the reach of the reserve.

In conjunction with Cambodian authorities, our marine biologist is engaged in a series of marine audits, including gathering baseline data on the health of the reef, fish stocks and other marine species.

Water quality is monitored constantly at six locations and we also have instruments in place to monitor sediment.

In terms of the terrestrial environment, a flora and fauna study has been completed, identifying bat breeding colonies, roosting sites for large ranging birds such as hornbills, sea eagles and owls, and microhabitats for orchids and lichens.

Management plans are now in place to make sure these natural assets are not disturbed.

To ensure our guests realise the value of what they see when they visit, we currently have two researchers, linked to Australia’s James Cook University, working on a field guide to Song Saa’s marine life.

Our social programs are also well underway.

Our marine biologist is engaged in an education program to teach local fisherman sustainable fishing methods that will ensure fish stocks remain healthy and assets such as seagrass meadows – vital to dugong, green turtles and seahorses – are not disturbed.

In the nearby village of Prek Svay, our community engagement officer is well advanced in introducing a waste management system, including a regular collection service to ensure debris does not contaminate the marine or terrestrial environments.

He is also working on pilot aquaculture and organic farming projects to safeguard local livelihoods in a sustainable way.

We believe in being responsible neighbours and will prove that, with the right mind-set, tourism is good for communities and good for the environment.