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Royal Caribbean reaffirms its environmental commitment in the construction of the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island in Nassau

  • Royal Caribbean reaffirms its environmental commitment in the construction of the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island in Nassau
    Royal Caribbean reaffirms its environmental commitment in the construction of the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island in Nassau
Region:
World
Category:
Tourism
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Royal Caribbean International has taken a decisive step in its commitment to the environment by contracting SEV Consulting Group, the leading environmental consulting firm based in The Bahamas, to oversee the construction and operation of the new Royal Beach Club Paradise Island in Nassau. This collaboration aims to ensure that the 17-acre beachfront project, set to open by late 2025, is developed in strict compliance with Bahamian and international environmental regulations.

Philip Simon Jr., President and General Manager of Royal Beach Club and Royal Caribbean International Bahamas, emphasized the importance of preserving the natural resources of Paradise Island, a setting that has suffered from years of neglect by previous owners. Simon explained that although significant restoration work is needed, the island's natural beauty will be restored, and the western end of Paradise Island will once again shine as a jewel in the heart of the harbor.

SEV Consulting Group, which has worked on numerous projects in The Bahamas since 2007, is already overseeing the demolition and removal of over 1,600 non-native plants and trees as part of the island's natural habitat restoration process. Leading up to the 2025 opening, SEV will continue to supervise the reconstruction phase, which includes the construction of small-scale buildings, pools, relaxation areas, and docks.

The firm will also ensure that the measures outlined in Royal Caribbean’s Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Environmental Management Plan (EMP)—essential documents for identifying and mitigating potential negative environmental impacts—are adhered to. These efforts are framed within The Bahamas’ Planning and Subdivision Act, which regulates all industrial, commercial, and residential developments in the country.

Stacey Moultrie, Vice President of Environmental Policy and Planning at SEV Consulting Group, expressed her satisfaction in being part of a project aimed at protecting and promoting the island’s natural beauty. "Our goal is to ensure that environmental measures are properly implemented and that Bahamian laws are followed, including the protection of sea turtle nesting sites and the removal of invasive species," Moultrie stated.

In coordination with Royal Caribbean, SEV conducts regular site visits and inspections to ensure that any corrective actions are taken immediately, including halting construction if necessary. Reports from these inspections are sent monthly to The Bahamas’ Department of Environmental Planning and Protection (DEPP). During construction, SEV monitors will be present on-site full-time.

SEV works closely with Stacy Lubin, Director of Environment and Sustainability at Royal Caribbean International Bahamas, to ensure that all environmental practices align with the company’s six key commitments: zero waste to landfills, use of renewable energy, no dredging or construction of overwater cabanas, wastewater treatment, protection and enhancement of surrounding habitats, and environmental monitoring.

This commitment to sustainable development and environmental preservation by Royal Caribbean International ensures that the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island will not only offer a world-class experience but also promote the island's natural environment and support the local economy. Upon opening, this beach club will reflect the spirit and beauty of The Bahamas, combining cultural and natural elements with the exclusive experience that characterizes Royal Caribbean.