Holo Holo Charters Awarded Two New Sustainability Designations
As a socially and environmentally-conscious-focused company, Holo Holo Charters is proud to announce our induction into two new programs: The Hawai‘i Tourism Authority’s (HTA) Qurator and the Hawaiʻi Green Business Program.
HTA’S QURATOR PROGRAM
An official mark of excellence for Hawai‘i-based and operating businesses, Qurator serves to guide visitors to Hawai‘i products and experiences that incorporate responsible tourism practices while adding value and recognizing those businesses for their positive contributions to the environment, community, and economy. Travelers can check out their site and search for businesses by activity or island. One of many programs enacted by Hawai‘i Tourism Authority, Qurator is an outlet to support Hawai‘i’s booming tourism industry while also supporting residents, culture and resources.
Holo Holo’s GM Chandra Bertsch utilized a resource similar to Qurator called Qualmark on a recent trip. “When I traveled through New Zealand a few years ago, I came to rely on Qualmark as a way to know I was supporting a local business that aligned with my values,” she said. Instituting standards for visitors with voluntourism opportunities and sustainable business support is a growing trend here and abroad, and we couldn’t be happier to see it continue to grow.
To achieve Qurator certification, businesses are evaluated based on the program’s six categories of criteria:
- Environment
- Cultural Support
- Equity
- Safety
- Community
- Guest Experience
Holo is passionate about sharing the transformative experience of the Nāpali Coast with guests, so this designation is particularly special. To be recognized for our positive impact on the island’s resources is an honor. We work hard to cut down on waste such as single-use items, and encourage guests to use reef-safe sunscreen to protect our marine life.
Qurator’s mission statement cites this induction as a way of recognizing leading businesses in Hawaiʻi in the field of responsible tourism. “The unique culture and environment of the state made it necessary to acknowledge both small and large companies, contributing as they are able. This includes treating residents, employees, and visitors respectfully, as well as protecting the environment and preserving Hawaiʻi’s cultural practices.”
On June 26th, 2024, GM Chandra Bertsch attended a press conference for the launch of Qurator, where Holo Holo Charters was inducted into the program with certification. “Qurator is an exciting new program as it is state-wide and truly reflective of the values, culture, and unique challenges and opportunities of operating a business in Hawaiʻi,” Bertsch said, “I am excited to see this program grow and become an easy way for visitors to identify and select businesses who go above and beyond the standard operating practices.”
HAWAIʻI GREEN BUSINESS PROGRAM
Hawaiʻi Green Business Program (HGBP) is a free state program that assists and recognizes businesses that strive to operate in an environmentally and socially responsible manner. A partnership between the Hawaiʻi State Energy Office, the Hawaiʻi State Department of Health, and the Board of Water Supply, the program highlights businesses that are dedicated to creating a sustainable Hawai‘i. Through HGBP, restaurants, resorts, events, and businesses are assessed on all of the following before being given their designation:
- Energy Conservation
- Water Conservation
- Waste Reduction
- Pollution Prevention
- Natural Resource Preservation
- Community Involvement
- Cultural Presentation
On June 28th, 2024, General Manager Chandra Bertsch and Sustainability Coordinator Jess Belt were invited to the official ceremony at the state capital on behalf of Holo Holo Charters. Belt explained how the program is progressive, allowing businesses to improve their green efforts by utilizing the checklists as a starting point. “Some companies may only fit in with the 10 entry-level lists, but others can dig deeper to conform to the higher standards right out of the gate or to build up to that level of compliance over time,” she explained. The lists themselves work as an excellent resource for businesses, Belt explained, “No matter how they approach it, the lists are an excellent way for a business to check in with their level of sustainability and set goals to continue to improve beyond their initial recognition.”
We are so proud to add two green designations to our company in the form of Qurator and HGBP. Holo Holo Charters has been named the Number One Best Boat Tour in America by the USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Award online contest Best Boat Tour by Newsweek, with a current nomination for Best Tour Company in Hawaiʻi. We are also certified as an Ocean Friendly Restaurant by Surfrider and a Certified Tour Operator by the Sustainable Tourism Association of Hawai‘i.