At Sanctum Boutique Apartments, we recognise our responsibility to operate in a manner that benefits not only our stakeholders but also the wider community and the environment. 

Our commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is embedded in our business ethos and guides our decisions and actions. In this document, we outline our approach to Environmental Sustainability, Social and Community Engagement, and Governance.  

At the start of the Sanctum Boutique Apartments journey during the design and renovation of "Sussex House" we engaged with Heritage Tasmania to ensure we were exceeding Heritage guidelines in minimal intervention, reusing and recycling and preserving all materials where possible.

Environmental Sustainability:

At Sanctum Boutique Apartments we are committed to minimising our environmental footprint and promoting sustainability throughout our operations. We recognise the importance of preserving natural resources and reducing emissions to mitigate climate change.

1. Energy Efficiency: We invest in energy-efficient technologies and practices to reduce energy consumption in our facilities. This includes LED lighting, energy-efficient appliances, and smart heating and cooling systems. This included reworking the double hung sash windows in Sussex House using thermal acoustic glass and installing draught seals to not only reduce noise but improve energy efficiencies. In addition to this the original hot water cylinder was replaced with a highly energy-efficient Sanden heat pump hot water system to service both apartments. No running out of hot water, fast recovery, more efficient than solar, and around an 70% saving on our old hot water running costs. 

2. Sustainable Transportation: A project scheduled for 2024, which is currently underway, involves the installation of solar panels, two EV charging stations, and carport infrastructure over the Sanctum Guest parking spaces. Upon completion, this endeavour will significantly contribute to the reduction of our carbon footprint, as well as lower energy consumption and costs. We aim to have the installation commissioned by July 2024. Notably, this project receives support from a grant provided by the Department of State Growth Tourism & Hospitality.

3. Carbon footprint: In 2023, Sanctum Boutique Apartments took part in the Tourism Industry Council Tasmania (TICT) supported Carbon Pilot for its 2022 financial year. The comprehensive assessment revealed a combined calculated scope emissions resulting in a carbon footprint of 18(t) of CO2-e. Following the recommendations outlined in the Carbon Emissions Report, we have initiated efforts to measure our waste and recycling practices. Additionally, we have collaborated with Drive Car Hire to offer guests the option to book EV rental cars, further promoting sustainable transportation alternatives.

Furthermore, based on recommendations from the Carbon Emissions report, we upgraded a 3kW electric wall panel with the equivalent heat pump in the upstairs bedroom. This upgrade aims to simultaneously reduce our energy costs and carbon emissions while enhancing heating and cooling efficiency.

In 2024, we are embarking on the integration of carbon accounting into our annual accounting practices. This strategic initiative is bolstered by the support of the TICT and their Net Zero Advanced carbon accounting program.

Social and Community Engagement:

At Sanctum Boutique Apartments we understand the importance of fostering strong relationships within the communities where we operate. We actively engage with residents, local organisations, and stakeholders to contribute positively to society. Our initiatives include:

1. Local Partnerships: We collaborate with local businesses, artisans, and vendors to promote economic development and support the local economy. By sourcing locally-produced goods and services, we contribute to community prosperity. Examples of these include artwork displayed in our accommodation, experiences available with local tour groups and guides and add-on extra’s such as breakfast items from local producers.  

2. Support for Vulnerable Groups: We offer to provide support and resources including no charge accommodation for vulnerable groups within our communities, this has previously included providing this service to the OTIS foundation for over 4 years and will include the Make-a-Wish in current and future years.

3. Community engagement: As a private family company, Sanctum benefits from regular input from members of the Wagner families, who actively contribute their thoughts and ideas to foster the growth, development, and management of the business.

Additionally, we take pride in our membership with Destination Southern Tasmania and the Tourism Industry Council of Tasmania, where we actively participate in industry events and accreditation processes.

Despite being a very small business, Sanctum has cultivated a strong corporate culture, evident through our social and environmental policies and initiatives.

Governance:

At Sanctum Boutique Apartments we are committed to upholding the highest standards of corporate governance and ethical business practices. We believe in transparency, accountability, and integrity in all aspects of our operations. Our governance framework includes:

1. Ethical Business Conduct: We adhere to ethical principles in our decision-making processes and interactions with stakeholders. Our policies prohibit discrimination, harassment, and unethical behaviour in any form. We ensure businesses that we partner with have these same ethics and values. We have implemented an Anti-Discrimination Policy and obtained LGBTQIA+ Accreditation, which is prominently displayed in each apartment and guest compendium, affirming our commitment to diversity and inclusion.

2. Compliance and Risk Management: We comply with all relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards governing our business operations. Additionally, we proactively identify and manage risks to ensure the long-term sustainability and success of our business.

In conclusion, at Sanctum Boutique Apartments we are committed to integrating environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and good governance into our business practices. By prioritising these principles, we aim to create value for our stakeholders, contribute to the well-being of our communities, and build a more sustainable future for generations to come.