As the globe marks World Environment Day on 5th June 2025, HADCO Experiences, a Trinidadian Destination Management Company, is showcasing the future of regenerative tourism in the Caribbean—where environmental stewardship, biodiversity, and community-led conservation are woven into every guest experience.
In line with World Environment Day 2025’s theme of ending plastic pollution, HADCO Experiences is advancing its commitment to environmental leadership and is proud to have significantly reduced single-use plastics at its properties. Plastic pollution drastically intensifies the threefold environmental emergency facing our planet: climate change, the degradation of nature and biodiversity, and the growing burden of pollution and waste. Each year, an estimated 11 million tonnes of plastic enter our waterways, while microplastics continue to build up in the soil—mainly from sewage, landfills, and plastic-based agricultural inputs.
From installing solar-powered lighting systems to marine and rainforest conservation projects, and sourcing produce from local farmers to empowering community guides, HADCO Experiences operates with sustainability at its core. This year, the group is deepening that commitment by pursuing Green Key and Regenera Luxury Certifications at Asa Wright Nature Centre and Mt. Plaisir Estate Hotel, and implementing a solar panel project set to supply 85% of the energy needed at Asa Wright Nature Centre, harnessing the natural power of the sun to protect the planet and inspire change.
With their management of the eco-lodge at Asa Wright Nature Centre and Mt. Plaisir Estate Hotel in Grande Riviere, HADCO Experiences invites travellers to explore the island’s natural wonders while actively contributing to their protection. Installation of turtle-friendly red lights during the nesting season has been instrumental in preventing disorientation of the turtles, which typically occurs when they are distracted by artificial light sources.
At Mt. Plaisir Estate Hotel, which sits on the world’s most densely populated Leatherback turtle nesting beach, conservation is an unforgettable, hands-on experience. From March to August, guests can observe up to 400 hundred turtles nesting each night—and for those seeking a deeper connection, HADCO works with the Grande Riviere Nature Tour Guides Association to offer High Density Tours and Tagging Tours*, where visitors assist with data collection and learn proper tagging techniques under expert supervision.
These guest-driven conservation activities not only help protect endangered species but also generate vital eco-tourism income for the local community, empowering residents to remain in the area as protectors of their natural heritage.
Nearby, Pawi Lodge offers a rare chance to see the endangered Trinidad Piping-guan (Pawi) in its natural habitat. Local conservation efforts, supported by HADCO, have played a pivotal role in helping this once-declining species begin to recover.
Meanwhile, nestled in the calm embrace of the lush rainforest along Trinidad’s Northern Range, Asa Wright Nature Centre was established in 1967 with a mission to preserve and enhance a portion of the Arima and Aripo valleys for wildlife conservation, education, and scientific research. Following an extensive renovation by HADCO Experiences in 2021, the Centre reopened as a haven for birdwatchers and those looking for a tranquil respite. Set in 1,300 acres of protected forest it is a haven for birders and wildlife lovers alike. With over 170 bird species—including the rare nocturnal Oilbird—plus expert local guides, and two natural swimming pools, Asa Wright stands as a model for sustainable eco-lodging in the region.
With recycling programs in place, in addition to other initiatives such as composting, on-site herb gardens and eco-friendly air-conditioning units at both properties, there are also camera traps installed at Asa Wright Nature Centre to capture images of the wildlife with no disturbance to them. Further, investment was made in the Oilbird caves with the installation of additional ledges to encourage an increase in the number of birds roosting there.
“World Environment Day is a global reminder of our shared responsibility to protect the planet,” says John Hadad, Co-Founder of HADCO Experiences. “At our properties, conservation isn’t reserved for one day a year—it’s embedded in everything we do, every single day.”
Whether assisting with data collection or tagging endangered nesting Leatherback turtles, birdwatching in pristine rainforest or kayaking along gently winding rivers, guests are immersed in experiences that make a lasting difference.
From rainforest to reef, HADCO Experiences is committed to preserving Trinidad’s unique ecosystems through green innovation, community partnerships, and unforgettable guest experiences. World Environment Day 2025 calls on us to “invest in our planet.” At HADCO Experiences, that investment is tangible, year-round—and guests are invited to be part of the journey.
