Sustainable Development in Ibiza’s Real Estate Market
With Ibiza’s natural charm and booming real estate, sustainable development has become essential for preserving its unique environment while catering to increasing demand. As a prominent agency, Prestige Properties Ibiza has integrated eco-friendly practices to meet the evolving demands of a green-conscious clientele and regulatory frameworks focusing on sustainability.
Embracing Green Architecture
Modern buyers are prioritising properties with eco-friendly architecture. Energy-efficient designs, natural ventilation, and rainwater collection systems are rising in popularity. Ibiza Prestige, for example, champions properties that align with low-impact construction and conservation efforts, promoting homes that reduce energy waste and utilise renewable resources.
Energy Efficiency
Being mindful of energy consumption is essential for both the environment and long-term savings. Property owners can reduce energy usage by installing solar panels, using energy-efficient appliances, and making use of natural light and ventilation. Many homes are opting for natural air-cooling techniques, such as shaded areas and cross-ventilation, to reduce reliance on air conditioning. Small habits, like turning off lights in unoccupied rooms, further contribute to a sustainable and comfortable living space.
The Shift Toward Carbon-Neutral Properties
With a commitment to sustainability, Prestige Properties now operates as a 100% carbon-neutral company. This achievement reflects a broader trend across Ibiza’s market, where builders and agents increasingly adopt carbon-offset initiatives. These efforts involve reducing emissions, often through green energy sources and offset programs, creating a holistic approach to sustainability that resonates deeply with eco-minded buyers and renters.
Enhancing the Appeal of Local Materials and Craftsmanship
Ibiza’s real estate industry is increasingly valuing local craftsmanship and sustainable materials, recognising their vital role in eco-friendly construction. By using locally sourced stone, timber, and clay, developers significantly reduce the carbon footprint associated with material transport. This focus on local resources not only supports Ibiza’s natural landscape but also appeals to buyers seeking authenticity and environmental responsibility. Prestige Properties’s "Going Green Debris Campaign" promotes sustainable practices in construction and waste reduction, further demonstrating a commitment to preserving Ibiza’s unique beauty.
Government Laws and Incentives
Ibiza’s regulations have introduced stricter rules to combat overbuilding and protect the island’s ecosystem. From protected zones to restrictions on water usage, new policies encourage responsible development. These measures not only preserve Ibiza’s landscapes but also enhance property value by maintaining exclusivity and environmental responsibility.
Sustainable Ibiza: A Guide for Eco-Conscious Property Owners
Every decision we make—from the food we consume to our energy use at home—impacts the environment. In Ibiza, a growing community of residents and homeowners is embracing sustainable practices to protect the island’s natural beauty. Organisations like IbizaPreservation play a key role, managing initiatives such as Plastic Free Ibiza, Ibiza Produce, and the Marine Forum. Prestige Properties Ibiza supports these projects through donations and a commitment to reducing its own carbon footprint.
If you’re considering purchasing property and living in Ibiza, integrating eco-conscious practices into your lifestyle and home management can have a significant impact. Our guide offers detailed recommendations for sustainable living on the island, empowering residents and visitors to preserve Ibiza’s unique environment.
Water Conservation
Sustainable water use is especially important given Ibiza’s hot climate. Simple habits—like turning off taps when not in use or using efficient water systems—can save litres daily. Many homes in Ibiza are now incorporating water-saving technologies, such as low-flow fixtures and greywater recycling, to minimise impact and conserve resources.
Future Perspectives: Tech-Driven Sustainability
As we move into 2024 and beyond, technology will continue to shape Ibiza’s real estate market. Smart home systems that monitor energy usage, eco-friendly property management apps, and electric vehicle infrastructure are becoming more common. Buyers increasingly value these innovations, which allow them to contribute actively to the environment without compromising luxury.
In summary, Ibiza’s real estate market is evolving towards sustainability, balancing luxury with environmental responsibility. With eco-conscious buyers shaping market demand, companies like Ibiza Prestige Properties lead the way in promoting a greener, more sustainable Ibiza.
Do you have any questions or need more info? Send us a message and we will get back as quickly as possible!
Energy Efficient Ibiza Homes – A Guide for Home Owners in Ibiza Part. 2
As homeowners, we each have a significant role to play in improving our homes’ energy performance, ultimately reducing our carbon footprint and waste. Improving the energy efficiency of our homes is essential for conserving resources, saving money, and protecting the environment. Even simple changes can make a difference, enhancing property energy efficiency and contributing to the well-being of our planet and lowering household utility bills.
At Prestige Properties Ibiza, we are firmly committed to promoting energy efficiency and green living. In our previous article, "Energy Efficient Homes: A Guide for Homeowners in Ibiza", we encouraged property owners and buyers to create energy-efficient homes. In this follow-up guide, we continue exploring ways you can achieve a more sustainable and environmentally friendly lifestyle right from your Ibiza home.
Let’s dive into the latest tips and advice for homeowners looking to embrace sustainable living.
How to Save Energy at Home – Our Top Daily Tip for Your Ibiza Property
Switch to LED Light Bulbs
LED bulbs provide significant energy savings when compared to incandescent, halogen, or compact fluorescent light bulbs. LED bulbs consume up to 80% less energy than traditional incandescent ones.
Making the transition to LEDs will dramatically reduce your carbon footprint and lower CO2 emissions. This is an easy and highly effective way to save energy, making it a key change for energy-efficient homes.
Wash Clothes in Cold Water
While washing clothes in hot water can be effective for heavily soiled items, it’s both expensive and harmful to the environment.
Whenever possible, use cold water (30 degrees) for your laundry. Heating water accounts for up to 90% of the energy consumption of washing machines. By switching to cold water, you’ll save energy and reduce wear on your clothes, preserving colors and fabrics.
Air Seal Your Ibiza Home
As mentioned in our previous article A Guide for Home Owners in Ibiza sealing cracks, gaps, and leaks in your home and adding insulation can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 10%. Key areas to address include roofing, solid walls, ventilation, thermal bridges, water tightness, and damp-proofing. If your home still has single-paned windows, consider replacing them with energy-efficient alternatives for greater savings.
Clean or Replace All Filters
Dirty or clogged filters in systems like air conditioners and dryers force them to work harder and consume more energy. Regular cleaning and maintenance can reduce energy consumption by up to 15%, ensuring optimal performance and extending the lifespan of your appliances.
Optimise Your Fridge and Freezer Usage
Refrigerators and freezers operate most efficiently when full, but overfilling can restrict airflow and force them to work harder. Follow the manufacturer’s temperature settings to avoid excessive cooling, and clean out any ice build-up to ensure efficiency. This will help reduce unnecessary energy consumption.
Use Natural Resources for Light, Shade, Heating, and Cooling
Take advantage of Ibiza’s abundant natural resources to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home. During cooler months, let sunlight warm your living spaces by opening blinds and curtains, and in warmer months, use shades or tinted windows to block out excess heat. Reducing reliance on artificial lighting and climate control systems can lead to significant energy savings, as lighting alone accounts for about 12% of a household’s energy use.
Mind Your Electronics and Appliances
Switch off electronics such as computers, TVs, and radios when they are not in use. Unnecessary standby power contributes to energy waste. Charging your phone overnight isn’t needed either—it only takes a few hours. Additionally, when using appliances like ovens, avoid opening the door frequently, as this causes heat loss. If possible, turn the oven off a few minutes early and let the residual heat finish the cooking process.
To further reduce energy consumption, use high-energy appliances like dishwashers and washing machines during off-peak hours when utility providers may offer lower rates. Whenever possible, air-dry laundry instead of using a tumble dryer.
Thermostat Management for Ibiza Properties
Adjusting your thermostat by just a few degrees can save you around 6–8% per degree on energy bills. Contrary to popular belief, setting the thermostat to extreme temperatures won’t heat or cool your home faster—it simply consumes more energy. Consider installing a programmable thermostat to automatically adjust the temperature according to your daily schedule, ensuring energy-efficient heating and cooling.
Recycle, Reuse, and Reduce in Ibiza
Ibiza produced an average of 662 kg of waste per person in 2019, 36.4% above the national average. With the island’s landfill capacity struggling to keep up, waste reduction should be a priority. By adopting sustainable habits, we can reduce the impact on the environment and promote a cleaner, greener Ibiza.
In support of the EWWR (European Week for Waste Reduction), our beach clean-up initiatives highlight the importance of waste reduction.
According to IbizaPreservation, offers the following list of points to keep in mind act upon:
Buy only what you truly need.
Avoid items with excessive packaging.
Refuse plastic bags and bring reusable ones.
Opt for reusable products instead of disposable plastic.
Compost organic waste.
Use the island’s recycling points—yellow bins for packaging, green for glass, and blue for paper and cardboard.
Donate or sell unused items, and buy second-hand when possible.
Every action counts, and the more we do collectively, the bigger the impact on our environment. Energy-efficient homes and mindful living create a cleaner, greener Ibiza for current and future generations.
Resources & Further Information
To dive deeper into sustainable living in Ibiza, explore the following resources:
By following these energy-efficient practices, you can play a part in protecting Ibiza’s natural beauty while reducing your carbon footprint. Let’s work together for a more sustainable future.
Do you have any questions or need more info? Send us a message and we will get back as quickly as possible!
Energy Efficient Ibiza Homes – A Guide for Home Owners in Ibiza
Energy efficiency has become the gold standard for modern homes, whether they are newly built or renovated. As homeowners, it is essential to commit to conserving resources, saving money, and helping the environment through reducing waste and preserving energy. Whether your home is new, undergoing renovation, or very old, energy efficiency can be achieved through applied knowledge and effective changes.
At Prestige Properties, we are dedicated to promoting energy efficiency and green living in Ibiza. To encourage property owners and future buyers to create energy-saving homes, we have developed this short guide. So, here’s how you can make your Ibiza home more energy-efficient, starting right at your front door.
Insulation & Draught Proofing your Ibiza Property
Insulation and draught-proofing are primary concerns for energy efficiency. Despite Ibiza’s mild temperatures, the high humidity can lead to dampness in poorly insulated homes. Additionally, the hot high season increases electric consumption for cooling. Property buyers and new owners should always review the architectural design and construction to ensure good insulation and low energy consumption.
For those investing in new property, building, or remodelling a home in Ibiza, it is crucial to examine factors such as roofing and drainage systems, property orientation and design, solid walls, ventilation, thermal bridges, insulation, water tightness, damp-proofing, sealing, and double-glazed windows.
Building with Eco-Friendly Materials in Ibiza
Traditional construction often involves earth bricks, concrete, and wood, contributing to deforestation and mining. Fortunately, the construction industry is adopting green materials like bamboo, hempcrete slabs, rammed earth, and reclaimed wood and steel. If you are building or renovating a property in Ibiza, investigate the sustainable practices of local construction companies, architects, and workers. Energy-intensive materials should be used sparingly or when recycled.
Solar Power Panels in Ibiza
Solar panels are highly recommended for green living. Solar energy is abundant and free, and Ibiza enjoys 300 days of sunshine a year. Solar power produces no greenhouse gases and does not pollute the environment. Generating your electricity reduces consumption from utility providers, resulting in substantial savings on household bills. For more information on solar power systems in Ibiza, visit Westphal Solar.
Upgrading your Boiler in your Ibiza Property
Boilers account for approximately half of your energy bills. An inefficient boiler can lead to high home energy costs and unnecessary carbon emissions. It is increasingly important to have an energy-efficient boiler. If your property hasn’t had a new boiler in the last ten years, consider replacing it with a newer model. In Ibiza, new builds are required to supply hot water via solar panel energy. These "Hot Water Solar Systems" are famous for remodelling older properties.
Indigenous Landscape Gardens
Landscaping and gardens enhance a property’s aesthetic appeal and can reduce energy usage by protecting the property from extreme weather. Well-placed trees, shrubs, and vines provide shade, serve as windbreaks, and facilitate natural air exchange. Native and natural landscapes conserve water, reduce pesticide usage, require less fuel and electricity for maintenance, and reduce noise and air pollution. They also provide food and wildlife habitat and naturally clean the air by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen.
To design and maintain an energy-efficient landscape, consult professional landscape designers, tree surgeons, and ecologists. Consider landscape water consumption and recycling, such as building a rainwater storage device for garden watering during hot months. Illot Studio, part of the Prestige Family, are very experienced in the design and landscaping of mediterranean, beautiful and efficient gardens.
Use Local Ibiza Companies and Workers
Using local architects, designers, construction workers, and landscape gardeners who advocate for locally-produced materials saves transportation costs and supports the local labour market. Landscaping materials should be biodegradable, recycled, and low energy-consuming, and produced locally. Choose businesses with good ethics, local staff, and proper contracts and insurances. See a list of companies we recommend further below.
Keep an Eye on the Little Things
Utilise energy efficiently by learning to accomplish daily tasks with less consumption. Be aware of how energy is used, where it is wasted, and how to use it better. Simple actions, like switching to LED lights, sealing cracks, replacing filters, encouraging natural sunlight and heat, setting a thermostat, monitoring temperature controls, turning off lights, and dressing appropriately for the weather, can significantly improve household sustainability and energy efficiency.
Final Thoughts for Ibiza Property Owners
Investing in an energy-efficient home in Ibiza may seem complex and expensive. Still, such projects are often no more complicated than conventional construction and save money in the long run. Simple improvements, like LED lighting and shading, are environmentally friendly and reduce electric bills.
Every small contribution helps. Living in an energy-efficient, well-insulated home lowers household bills, increases property value, and contributes to a cleaner, greener island.
Do you have any questions or need more info? Send us a message and we will get back as quickly as possible!
Sustainable Ibiza: The Best Practice and Guide for an Eco-Conscious Stay in Ibiza
Every decision we make, from the food on our plates to the cars we drive, impacts our environment daily. Fortunately, an increasing number of individuals, both here in Ibiza and globally, recognise the importance of collective action and intentional living to safeguard and preserve our island—and the planet as a whole.
In Ibiza, IbizaPreservation, a non-profit at the forefront of sustainability, actively oversees the sustainability of our island through various projects and movements, such as Plastic Free Ibiza, Ibiza Produce, Ibiza Posidonia, the Marine Forum, and the Ibiza Sustainability Observatory. Together with our regular donations in support of these initiatives, we at Prestige Properties Ibiza aim to also reduce our own carbon emissions and address local environmental issues.
Tourists and visitors can play a huge role in minimising their environmental impact during their stay. Simple yet impactful changes, such as managing energy consumption, opting for local, eco-friendly products, and adopting conscious habits, can collectively make a difference.
So, in this spirit, let’s start with our latest guide to empower eco-conscious practices to contribute positively to the environment when visiting this beautiful island.
Energy Efficiency in Ibiza
Keep your water consumption in check
Efficient water usage is a simple yet impactful way to reduce your environmental footprint. Consider this: when washing dishes or brushing your teeth, a quick action like turning off the tap can save more than a litre of water in just 20 seconds. Water conservation becomes quite significant in light of the frequency of these daily activities.
The same principle applies to showers, especially during hot weather and beach seasons when water usage increases. Being mindful of your water consumption and making a conscious effort to save water in these routine activities can contribute to a more sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle.
Manage your electricity usage by avoiding leaving electronic devices on throughout the day. Switch off electrical appliances when unnecessary, and turn them on only when necessary. For instance, refraining from charging your mobile phone overnight can save significant energy, as the charging process typically takes just a few hours.
Consider scheduling high-energy appliances, like dishwashers and washers, for nighttime operation. Additionally, use natural heat and sunlight to air-dry laundry outdoors instead of using a dryer.
Maintain a pleasant indoor climate by making the most of natural resources. Utilise shades and open windows during the warmer months to cool your villa, reducing energy-consuming air-conditioning units –– and when using air-conditioners, ensure windows are closed. Opt for natural light over artificial lighting and turn off lights in unoccupied rooms whenever possible. These small yet thoughtful practices can minimise your villa’s energy consumption.
Waste Management and Recycling in Ibiza
As outlined by IbizaPreservation, mindful waste and recycling practices are encouraged, and visitors should consider the following guidelines:
Prioritise thoughtfully – purchase only what is essential.
Minimise packaging – opt for items with minimal packaging.
Decline plastic bags – carry your reusable bag or basket when shopping (don’t forget you can request one of our eco-friendly "Prestige Going Green" reusable Tote bags from your Prestige agent!).
Say no to plastic straws –– essentially, these are banned in Ibiza.
Promoting environmental stewardship in Ibiza
While our island relies heavily on tourism for its economic prosperity, the influx of luxury and leisure activities each year threatens our ecosystem’s conservation and sustainability in Ibiza. Making a positive impact is within reach with these straightforward tips.
Mind your cigarette ends – refrain from littering streets and natural areas, particularly forests, nature trails and beaches. Beyond fire risk, it’s crucial that we respect our beaches and natural surroundings. Though designated bins may be scarce outside urban areas, heat-proof ashtray wallets, available at tobacco stores, offer a convenient solution for proper disposal
Protect marine life by resisting the temptation to take souvenirs of Posidonia (seaweed) and the environment at sea. When sailing or beachcombing, leave stones, shells, plants, and animals undisturbed in their natural habitats.
Choose eco-friendly sunscreen to protect your skin without harming marine life. Collect your waste after a beach visit, avoid discarding anything into the sea, and anchor your boat in designated areas to avoid Posidonia (seaweed) meadows.
Embrace eco-friendly transportation – consider walking or biking to nearby destinations instead of driving. It’s healthier and more environmentally friendly. When driving is necessary, prioritise public transportation, and, if necessary, maximise carpooling to reduce road congestion. Similarly, minimise land-based activities with high pollution levels, such as safari tours and quad biking, to reduce environmental impact. Check out this blog with some eco-friendly activities in Ibiza.
Select Conscious & Local Businesses in Ibiza
Try and shop for products and services from local businesses and those who advocate for sustainability, eco-friendly products, fair trade, or have Corporate Social Responsibility as part of their business ethos. Even businesses that ensure their employees have the right contracts and protections – such as insurance – and pay taxes, are helping the Ibizan community and the environment.
Go to Google Maps to see all the eco-shops available on the island.
Every action we take will make a difference. The most important thing to remember is that our actions will result in a cleaner, greener island, both now and in the future. Our company, Prestige Properties, is fully committed to promoting energy efficiency here in Ibiza as a firm supporter of green living. If you are eco-conscious, you may also be interested in our recent publications "Energy Efficient Homes: A Guide for Homeowners in Ibiza" article and "Energy Efficient Homes: A Guide for Homeowners Part 2"aimed at encouraging property owners and buyers to create energy-efficient homes.
Do you have any questions or need more info? Send us a message and we will get back as quickly as possible!
We are now a 100% carbon-neutral company at Prestige Properties Ibiza
Together with the local community and outside environmental organisations, we set the bar high regarding our Corporate and Social Responsibility (CSR).
We recognise that our everyday work impacts our environment. Because of this, we decided to take action to fight for a safer and cleaner future by becoming a carbon-neutral company.
In 2019 we partnered with an external environmental organisation to begin calculating and reducing our carbon footprint in the workplace. Our carbon footprint strategy has recently extended into an off-setting plan through reforestation with Bosquia, and we’d love to show you our journey so far.
Workplace carbon emissions and the planetary problem
Over the past century, it has been estimated that global CO2 emissions have risen from 2 billion tons (recorded in 1900) to a staggering 36.8bn tonnes. (by 2022 – International Energy Agency (IEA)).
Energy usage is a part of every company and household. CO2 emissions and energy consumption occur because of natural gas, electricity, heating, propane, servers, employee travel, and daily commuters. However, businesses and households can reduce their carbon footprint by taking simple, intentional actions. Using renewable energy sources, adjusting thermostats, making sure all plugs are turned off at the end of the day, using a laptop instead of a desktop computer, opting for hybrid vehicles, and recycling can all help.
Reducing our CO2 emissions and calculating our carbon footprint as a company
Our company has been actively working with a specialised partner program since 2019. Our partnership with Ambialia has helped us calculate and reduce our carbon footprint – setting us on a path to protect the environment, fight climate change, and help work towards the transition to a clean energy future.
As part of our efforts to reduce our carbon footprint, we have implemented the following initiatives:
The use of hybrid company cars
Using recycled paper
Shifting from quarterly to annually printed magazines
Reducing our office thermostat and using low energy eco-settings
Offering our clients the service of live video visits of properties so that they do not need to take a flight to Ibiza every time
In the latter part of 2020, we calculated our current carbon footprint. Prestige Properties Ibiza emits approximately 18 tonnes of CO2 per year.
Off-setting with Bosquia – reforestation, actions and environmental policy
As part of our carbon footprint strategy, we’ve started reforestation with Bosquia. Their social enterprise educates companies like ourselves and individuals about the importance of forests. It encourages us to make a difference by increasing our planet’s green space. By funding them, we can compensate for our carbon footprint expenditure and enable them to reforest or create new native forests on our company’s behalf.
As the most significant regulators and balancers of climate, forests favour rainfall, generate oxygen, clean the air, and serve as an essential part of our planet’s ecosystem.As a company, we were particularly drawn to Bosquia as our off-setting non-profit organisation for their passion for nature, human progress and dedication to protecting forests on the Spanish mainland.
Be part of the solution.
Based on our internal statistics and general market trends across mainland Spain and the Balearic islands, we are confident that Ibiza will remain a top destination for buying property in 2023.
Ignoring the correlation between our CO2 emissions and climate change is easy. To address the problem at hand and work towards a clean energy future, we all need to consider offsetting and funding projects such as Bosquia that work to reduce carbon emissions.
In a world where climate change is becoming an increasingly urgent issue, we strive to be a sustainability role model within our industry, working with our specialised partners in innovative ways to combat the global issues at hand.
Do you have any questions or need more info? Send us a message and we will get back as quickly as possible!
Welcome Gift from De Angel Natural Soap made in Ibiza
At Prestige Properties we realise how fortunate we are to live on a beautiful island. To preserve the beauty of Ibiza and to ensure that many generations after us can live just as happily and healthily, we try to contribute in many ways to a greener local environment. To this end, we have set up our Prestige Goes Green campaign. For example, as part of this campaign, we donate part of our commissions from every sale and rental deal to IbizaPreservation, to support local environmental initiatives.
In line with our green campaign and to ensure that our clients have the best Ibiza experience we now include the De Angel amenities line of natural hair and body care in our rental welcome gift pack. Our wish is to make you to feel at home and enjoy the very best of what the island has to offer.
De Angel is a family-run business that is committed to making sustainable and natural body cleansing products in solid format. In the creation of their products, De Angel tries to use as many natural, locally sourced ingredients as possible. The results are natural soaps that provide a refreshing experience and the natural care that your body deserves.
The founders were inspired by the island’s beautiful nature and their products aim to bring its essence into your home. The products are cut and packaged carefully by hand. Their paper packaging makes them stand out from other products as the impact on the environment is almost zero. In addition, the solid products lasts much longer than any liquid alternative.
Are you familiar with the De Angel history?
Luz and Ramon, the owners of De Angel, decided to move to Ibiza in 2011 together with their children, as they were tired of hectic city-life in Valencia. After a beautiful summer on the island and a family conversation about natural soaps, they decided to start their own company to develop soaps with natural ingredients inspired by the island. This was a new challenge for them because they had no experience in this, but they knew that together they would make a good team because Luz was always busy with handicrafts and Ramon had a background in graphic design.
During those winter months they discovered more of the beauty that Ibiza offers, and all the natural ingredients they could use for their recipes. With this inspiration they started experimenting with countless ingredients such as plants, vegetable oils etc. The results were beautiful products which they became more enthusiastic about every day, and which gave them the motivation to continue.
As Spring approached, they had created some wonderful products, with beautiful and handmade packaging. However, they did not have any customers since their products were not yet known among the islanders and tourists. To make sure their name grew, and their products were recognised, they started selling their products in the famous markets of Ibiza: Las Dalias, Sant Joan and Hippie Market Punta Arabí. Soon they received enthusiastic client responses about the quality of their products and to this day they continue to distribute them to the markets from their store in Port des Torrent, in the south of Ibiza.
We hope you enjoy this little welcome gift, and we invite you to be a part of the green solution by checking out some of the ways in which you can make your Ibiza stay more sustainable and help to preserve our beautiful island:
If you are still looking for a place to stay in Ibiza, our Rental team will be happy to help you. Take the stress out of planning the details of your holiday and let us make your dream vacation become a reality.
During a collaborative effort, over 200 kilos of garbage were collected in just one morning by a group of local residents from Ibiza.
As part of a project led by us at Prestige Properties Ibiza, nearly 50 individuals, between our office and a variety of volunteer associations, worked together to clean up the areas of Cas Mut and Talamanca Beach, Ibiza.
During the project 23 people, Prestige Properties employees and volunteers, set out to collect roaming waste products and trash from the urban zone of Cas Mut, just outside Ibiza Town. The remainder of the group of volunteers and Prestige staff (30 people) gathered together on the beach of Talamanca with their friends, partners, and children who also took part in the morning’s activities.
As a result of the ‘Beach Clean Up’ initiative 160 kilos of glass, 120 kilos of plastics and cans, 15 kilos of paper, and approximately 50 kilos of non-recyclable waste were collected in total between the two locations. Cas Mut alone collected 170 kilos of rubbish (90 kg of which were plastic items or cans).
European Week for Waste Reduction (EWWR)
We specifically chose this date as it marked the start of the European Week for Waste Reduction 2021, whereby a wide variety of initiatives and campaigns across the island and Europe set out to raise awareness regarding reducing waste and living a more sustainable life.
A Special Thanks…
We would like to say a special thanks to our collaborators for all their help and assistance with the logistics of the day. We also would like to thank every volunteer who dedicated their personal time and came along to help us clean up these two beautiful areas of the island. Keeping our beloved island clean and nurtured!
Plastic Free Ibiza and Formentera is a movement consolidated since 2018 and promoted by IbizaPreservation. It is composed of 14 local non-profit organisations whose goal is to preserve the environment of the Pitiusas. While its primary activity is the Plastic Free Balearics certification, it also promotes awareness campaigns and educational workshops in schools.
Casita Verde is an ecology and education centre founded by Chris Dews in the green heart of Ibiza in 1993. Casita Verde practices and teaches sustainable, healthy living by applying permaculture principles, using alternative energy, and re-using and upcycling waste materials. Their tours, volunteering, and workshop experiences can help you with your own sustainable living journey.
Thank you for staying updated with us at Prestige Properties. We hope to see you soon!
Do you have any questions or need more info? Send us a message and we will get back as quickly as possible!
Prestige Properties Ibiza – Social Responsibility and Community Initiatives
Our team at Prestige Properties Ibiza collectively considers our Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) as a humble opportunity to ‘give back’ to Ibiza. Our gratitude for our home and the opportunities we receive as a business, as well as individuals, motivates us to acknowledge our accountability as citizens and encourages us to return our gratefulness through ethical change to benefit our society.
Like all communities, Ibiza is presented with issues of inequity, environmental concerns, small local businesses in financial difficulty (post-global pandemic), and families struggling to thrive. In this way, we believe we must be part of the solution, advocating for balance, equal opportunities, sustainability, and the health and welfare of all.
"Every individual and citizen group should, together, be accountable for the welfare, health, and safety of their entire community". – Victor, Sales Director & Partners at Prestige Properties, 2021
Our company’s philosophy has actively started working towards a better balance between economic prosperity, environmental protection, and social stability.
Social Responsibility and Community Initiatives
Since 2017, we have prioritised green-living as part of our business education and mindful lifestyle practice at Prestige Properties Ibiza. We have also made a conscious effort to give charitably, utilising our gratitude to help others in the best way we can, and as much as possible.
Our Corporate Social Responsibility aims to:
Make a stand to protect the overall well-being of our island, and the environment, while lessening the negative impacts we create as a company.
Regularly create campaigns through our advertising and social media channels to raise awareness of injustice, environmental issues, charitable and NGO affairs, sponsorships, and volunteering opportunities.
Regularly engage and support charitable giving.
Support small, local businesses with sponsorship and promotion.
Reduce our energy consumption & become carbon neutral
Inform all of our tourism and relocating clients on environmental and sustainable living in Ibiza, through both factual and practical advice
Buy products and services from socially responsible companies, as well as local businesses, thus impacting the island’s sustainability, profitability, and trade.
Our Social Responsibility Action Timeline
Here’s our Social Responsibility timeline so far to date. You can visit our ‘Prestige Goes Green’ blog to see all of our environmental and sustainable CSR activity, however, our community initiatives and ongoing social stability support are listed below.
Supporting Local Businesses
In recent years, Prestige Properties Ibiza has actively collaborated with many local community projects and companies through sponsorship and promotional campaigns.
Cinema Paradiso
In 2017, we sponsored Cinema Paradiso in the Baluarte (a local cultural event here in Ibiza). The Baluard de Sant Pere is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site in the heart of Dalt Vila, which is open to the public. Cinema Paradiso has hosted some spectacular outdoor cinema experiences right here within the charming walls of the old city.
Cinema Paradiso is a local business that dreamed of creating "The Ultimate Cinema Experience". Whether you attend a public screening at one of their varied locations or opt for a private cinema session in your home or villa, the team goes above and beyond to ensure a memorable occasion. The company has provided Ibiza with a great addition to its seasonal cultural activities, and lent towards supporting the tourism industry, necessary for our island’s prosperity.
You can see our sponsorship and cinema advertising on our youtube feature below:
Campos de Ibiza
When you rent a property with Prestige Properties we offer all of our guests a gift pack with products from Campos de Ibiza as part of our rental service. On arrival, a special range of body and hair amenities, created from natural ingredients, originating from our fruitful island, free of parabens, and free from animal testing are waiting to greet you.
We are very pleased to provide a unique gift and support this local family company, which also ensures all of their product containers are recyclable and manufactured in a manner that is sustainable, generating minimal waste.
My Ibiza and Formentera
My Ibiza and Formentera is a must-have guide for any traveler visiting Ibiza. Created by Hjordis Fogelberg, who spent her childhood summers on the island and has developed a knowledge and passion for the island, resulting in nothing less than an authentic travel guide with recommendations for the best sporting activities, top sunset spots, culinary experiences, events, and cultural living. ‘My Ibiza and Formentera’ is personally illustrated by Hjordis herself, making this guide a beautiful souvenir and a little gem of artistic expression.
We are very happy to collaborate on this project by sponsoring the inside front cover since 2019.
The guide is available for sale all over Ibiza island, Mainland Spain, London, Paris, and Holland. To order directly from the author, head to ‘My Ibiza and Formentera’ Facebook and send Hjordis a direct email purchasing request!
Illustration by Hjordis Fogelberg
Cafe de Ibiza
In 2019, we switched our coffee machine from the Nespresso brand which uses plastic capsules, ending up in landfills, to one which grinds fresh coffee beans. From here we decided that our coffee beans should be from a local company. Our decision promotes KM0 transportation, waste reduction, and also supports a locally operating business here in Ibiza! Our chosen coffee now is Cafe de Ibiza.
Charitable Giving
Food for Ibiza
In 2018, we decided to choose a campaign that was both close to our hearts and also directly linked to our workplace, through our colleague Nina Negru: the 4th Edition of ‘One Toy, One Smile’, organised by Food for Ibiza.
Food for Ibiza is a non-profit organisation that has been actively supplying some of the island’s poorest families with food and basic necessities. The organisation solely runs on the support of volunteers and is dependent on the generosity and donations made by the local community.
"One Toy, One Smile" offers the gift of toys and a €25 per head coupon to be spent on a family Christmas menu at their nearby supermarket. At Prestige Properties, we were overly happy to be part of such a wonderful project.
We are very proud to be working with one of the founding members of Food for Ibiza, our colleague Nina Negru, as part of our team of sales agents.
In February 2021, we made a generous donation to Food for Ibiza. The pandemic has resulted in a record number of people in Ibiza struggling and utilising their charitable services. Any kind of food relief and donation is highly needed at this difficult time. To make your own donation or to find out how you can get involved, contact our colleague Nina via the Food for Ibiza Facebook page.
To find out more about our collaboration with Food for Ibiza, check our ‘One Toy, One Smile’ blog here!
In conclusion…
CSR has the potential to positively impact the everyday lives of individuals and families presently here in Ibiza, as well as those future generations who are yet to come. Whether by donating to charitable causes, supporting environmental changes, or considering programs to help people from developing countries, our social responsibility as a community has the power to improve the lives, health, and environment of others.
Together small-scale commitments through CSR programs and personal actions can result in changing someone’s day, creating one small step towards a better future, or even changing the future outcome for our local communities and planet in the years to come.
We believe in Giving Back.
We believe in Going Green.
We welcome you to join us in this pursuit!
Get Involved!
There is no time like the present to give back and to get involved. Ibiza has many projects and NGOs listed on the island where we can all support, donate, activate, and simply ‘do our part’. No matter how big or how small, you can make a difference.
Take a look at our local initiatives here on the island below;
Do you have any questions or need more info? Send us a message and we will get back as quickly as possible!
Prestige Properties Ibiza Goes Green & Sustainable
Living sustainably is no longer a thing of the past, a desirable way of living, or even a questionable affair. In today’s society, with growing populations, CO2 emissions, waste, and increased pollution, it is essential to practice green living as part of our everyday lives.
In a world where most of us have the availability to live beyond our means, we have allowed for problematic statistics of over-consumption, and therefore adverse consequences from our daily choices and excessive living, leading to dangerous levels of planetary changes.
Failure to live in a sustainable way results in our human existence and habitat at risk of harsh environmental and climatic changes with increased temperatures, leading to global warming, as well as unclean air and sanitation, and concerning water and food shortages.
When we strive for environmentally-friendly living, we significantly reduce the impact of extreme environmental changes that could otherwise be very harmful and threatening to our home, Planet Earth, both now and in the future.
Sustainable and Preserved Ibiza
A greener planet means a cleaner environment and a brighter future for all. With a better quality of air, surroundings, and food, we are more likely to be healthier for longer and subsequently, see a long and safe future for generations to come.
At Prestige Properties Ibiza, we understand how privileged we are to live on an island surrounded by nature with an abundance of cultivated land and natural resources, and also how these attributes are precisely what bring both local well-being and prosperity.
Over the past few years, our company’s philosophy has actively started working towards and advocating for an equal balance between economic prosperity, environmental protection, and social stability.
Going Green
There are many ways of going green and living sustainably to help preserve our island’s environment.
Since 2017, we have prioritised green-living as part of our business education and mindful lifestyle practice at Prestige Properties Ibiza, which has enabled us to contribute towards protecting the environment, preservation, and the conservation of our island’s natural resources as much as possible.
Our aim of going green is to:
Reduce our Island’s Overall Pollution
Reduce Resources used, Consumption, and Eliminate Non-Essential Waste
Conserve our Natural Resources, Farmland, and Forest Life
Conserve our Marine, Water, and Terrestrial Resources
Maintain the Natural Ecological Balance – Flora & Fauna
Fast-forward to 2021, Prestige Properties Ibiza ensures every business decision takes into consideration the impact on the environment and also our local community, with a calculated plan of action to guarantee a greener solution.
Our Green Solutions
To be able to fulfill our aims for green-living, we have made many changes to our working environment and daily practices.
Some of our environmentally friendly practices currently include:
Reducing Energy Consumption – Co2 Emission Calculations & Adjustments
Becoming Carbon Neutral and Off-Setting
Purchasing Eco-Friendly Office Items
Recycling and Upcycling
Green Mode Hybrid Cars and Team Carpooling
Raising Money and Sponsoring Sustainable Projects
Reducing Paper Consumption and using 100% Recycled Paper
Collaboration with Local Projects and Preservation Funds
Our Green Timeline
Here’s our green timeline so far to date with changes to our working environment and daily practices. We hope to see and add many more as we learn and improve our sustainable living.
Green Mode Hybrid Cars
In 2017, our managing and sales director Victor switched to a Hybrid Toyota Car. All non-electrical vehicles run on gas, and our gas is a limited and non-renewable resource, which emits harmful pollutants and waste like carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen gas into the atmosphere causing severe pollution and global warming via a greenhouse effect.
By changing to a hybrid car, we become more energy-efficient and move towards protecting ourselves against increased environmental pollution and climate change. Hybrid cars, although still partially run on gas, are found to have lower gas mileage, thus improving the gas economy. By partially using electricity, hybrid cars produce fewer toxins, harmful emissions of gas, and pollutants.
Following Victor’s inspiration and role-modeling, our colleague Nina, in 2018 also did the same and switched to a Hybrid car. The majority of our team have agreed that when the time has come for them to change their cars, they will also opt for either an electric or a hybrid model.
Sponsoring Projects – Sabina (Juniper) Trees
In 2018 we sponsored ‘The Sabina Boys’ on their Mongol Rally to raise money for the reforestation of Sabina (juniper) trees in Ibiza’s burnt down forest areas.
"The Sabina Boys", grew up together in Ibiza and participated in the famous charitable challenge "The Mongol Rally". The Mongol Rally is an annual event that covers roughly 30,000 km through mountains and desert, from Europe to Asia. The charity race is supported by an NGO of their choice.
"The Sabina Boys chose the NGO Ibizaconciencia.org and passed their donations to the campaign of "Reforesta Ibiza", where reforestation days were organised by students on the island, re-establishing native forest areas devastated by wildfires.
Prestige Properties proudly donated to their cause, as we also wanted to help and see the replanting of our beautiful and protected Juniper (Sabina) Trees in the burnt areas of the Ibizan landscape.
According to sources of the "Conselleria de Medi Ambient, Agricultura I Pesca", in 2017 there were 95 forest fires that burned 168.1 hectares in the Balearic Islands; of which 71% in Mallorca, 17% in Formentera, 11% in Ibiza, and 1% in Menorca.
Negligence and accidental causes were found at 58% of these claims, while intentional fires were approximately recognised at a staggering 20% of all causes.
In 2018, the Government reinforced the Fire Protection System in Ibiza. Here Prestige Properties Ibiza proposed to ensure better prevention and help lower the risk of forest fire through actively raising the awareness of our clients and tourists, with regular campaigns and advertising over the summer season.
Using less paper reduces your carbon footprint and sustains the environment by preventing trees from being cut down, eliminates energy used to convert a tree into a piece of white printing paper, and prevents plastic consumption from the plasticised paper products. Using less paper also helps to reduce the amount of waste produced by decreasing the refuse sent to landfills or industrial recycling sites.
In 2018, we decided to switch to 100% recycled and chlorine-free paper made in Italy for our printed property magazine, which by 2019 went on to include all our business stationery, such as our business cards and property folders.
In 2020 we decided to reduce our paper consumption further by changing the format, design, and content of our bi-annual magazine to become an annual edition, essentially to reduce and minimise waste.
Also, we recognised our annual magazine did not require unnecessary distribution and wasteful activity. We, therefore, allowed for the magazine to be given directly to clients who asked for a copy, and to a few selected venues on the island, but not for mass-marketing.
Many island real estate companies heavily distribute their magazines across the island, to every home, restaurant, and venue possible. The end-result is these often get left lying around, polluting the countryside, and with many using plasticised brilliant paper, which takes 100s of years to decompose and are left leaking damaging toxins into the ground. With our example we hope to inspire some of our colleagues in the industry to take similar steps towards eco-solutions.
Recycling and Upcycling – Plastic Reduction & Recycling
In early 2019 we switched our coffee machine from the Nespresso and their capsules (which end up in landfills) to a machine that grinds fresh coffee beans (we like to use our local favourite Cafe de Ibiza).
We also invested in plenty of drinking glasses to replace the plastic cups for our water machine, which, additionally, uses glass water bottles that are cleaned and reused rather than sent for recycling. Our single-use plastic consumption has been reduced by almost 90% collectively as a group here since we made these small yet powerful changes. And, of course, we also practice the separation of waste by material to aid the recycling efforts on the island.
Reducing CO2 Emissions – Calculating our Carbon Footprint
In the latter part of 2020 we calculated our Carbon Footprint: Prestige Properties Ibiza emits approximately 18 tonnes of CO2 per year.
Since actively calculating our carbon footprint, we have now received an official manual for reducing our emissions in the office by changing electrical equipment to newer more efficient versions, changing to more hybrid or fully electric cars, switching off all equipment at the end of the day, and keeping air-con’s systems within reasonable temperature limits.
For the future, we are now looking at projects to off-set our footprint, so that we can be a 100% carbon neutral company. So, stay tuned for more information.
Collaboration with Local Preservation Efforts – Ibiza Preservation Fund
In February 2021 we joined forces with the Ibiza Preservation Fund by offering a one-time donation and committing to donating 50€ for every property sale, and 5€ for every rental deal we close. This collaboration is set to be ongoing and indefinite.
Here is some more information on the projects and important work of the Ibiza Preservation Fund.
Going green at home, in the workplace, and as a community offers numerous benefits. If we all work towards sustainable living, and an eco-friendly planet, our home, and all living things receive the best possible quality of life and a hope for a bright time to come.
Prestige Properties Ibiza is proud to be an advocate of sustainability within our industry. Collaborating and working together with our local community and environmental organisations like The Ibiza Preservation Fund enables us to contribute towards the islands’ well-being and future.
Green living helps make Ibiza, and the planet, sustainable and habitable.
We believe in Giving Back.
We believe in Going Green.
We welcome you to join us in this pursuit!
There is no time like the present to give back and to get involved. Ibiza has many projects and NGOs listed on the island where we can all support, donate, activate and simply ‘do our part’. No matter how big or how small, you can make a difference.
Take a look at our local initiatives operating under Sustainability and Green-Living here on the island below:
