As part of its commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility, The Condado Collection and its portfolio of hotels—Condado Vanderbilt, La Concha Resort, and Condado Ocean Club—have implemented various initiatives focused on the well-being of the ecosystem and the local community.
“Paulson Puerto Rico is committed across all its portfolios to developing strategies aimed at environmental protection, thus contributing to Puerto Rico’s progress,” said Rolando Padua, president of Paulson Puerto Rico. “This initiative, carried out specifically along the coast, involves the participation of the Condado Collection hotel conglomerate through its corporate social impact program Alma de Condado, and Vanderbilt Residences, which, although still under construction, is already actively participating in projects that enhance the quality of life in the surrounding area.”
Since the start of the season, the volunteer employees of Condado Collection, along with consultants from 7 Quillas—a group recognized for its leadership in protecting sea turtles and their nesting habitats on the beaches of Condado and Ocean Park in San Juan—have been monitoring the coastline to identify areas with the most turtle nesting activity. This thorough surveillance has helped determine the most strategic locations for installing educational signs, ensuring maximum visibility and impact in protecting these valuable habitats.
“Puerto Rico is known for leatherback turtle nesting. As their closest neighbors, we take on the responsibility of protecting sea turtles and educating the community to encourage collaboration in their conservation,” said Ben Tutt, managing partner of Condado Collection. “To date, our team has installed 10 signs on Condado Beach, and 7 Quillas will place 15 additional ones in the Ocean Park area.” The signs provide crucial information about conservation practices and the need to protect the turtles’ nesting sites.
Leatherback turtles are the largest sea turtles, reaching up to 8 feet in length and weighing up to 1,200 pounds. They can dive to depths of nearly 4,000 feet. Nesting season in Puerto Rico occurs between February and August. The turtle arrives at the beach, digs a hole, and lays 80 to 120 eggs. Two months later, the baby turtles hatch and head towards the sea.
Employees of Condado Collection will benefit from 7 Quillas’ knowledge by receiving an educational session in line with the organization’s mission. “The goal of the organization is to inspire and raise awareness about the presence of endangered marine life, like the leatherback turtles, and the importance of protecting coral reefs and beaches, addressing pollution, and the benefits of community service,” explained Hilda Benítez, founder and director. “We are citizens committed to improving our environment.”
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