In the Know.
Q Air pollution is becoming more of an issue. How can we make sure the air in our homes is not harmful?
A In a study last year, the WHO announced that air pollution is the new tobacco. Ninety per cent of the world breathes polluted air and it is severely impacting our health. What’s even scarier is that inside air can be as bad or worse than that outside.
To combat its effects, start by combing through the materials and ingredients in your home furnishings, finishings (paints and varnishes) and detergents. Look out for formaldehyde, xylene, benzene and trichloroethylene — and replace these with eco versions. Add air-cleansing plants like dwarf or pygmy palms, spider plants, Boston ferns, rubber plants and aloe vera, which can help clear carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and the toxins listed above. And finally, invest in a high-tech air filter. The beautifully designed Olfinity intelligent air system monitors your indoor air quality, purifies the air, delivers healing aromatherapy, and is a real game changer.
Q My kids are leading the way in our family when it comes to living a more environmentally friendly life. Where can I take them on holiday to further their education around this?
A Thankfully there are many resort brands that share your children’s ethos and the trend is for this to keep gathering pace.
When it comes to sustainable design and operations look out for brands like Six Senses, Banyan Tree and Alila and independents like Song Saa Private Island in Cambodia and El Nido Resorts in the Philippines.
Moving to a plant-based diet is key for the environment. Fivelements in Bali is a leader, their Cuisine for Life programmes teach the whole family how to prepare and love planet-friendly dishes. In the Philippines, The Farm Q A at San Benito, chefs offer complimentary classes in vegan cuisine. Shreyas Retreat in India has a Culinary Experience that passes on the secrets of their detoxifying Ayurveda and Naturopathy-inspired cuisine.
Resorts with wildlife conservation in their DNA include Bensley Collection – Shinta Mani Wild in Cambodia, which has partnered with Wildlife Alliance. Four Seasons Resorts Kuda Huraa and Landaa Giravaaru in the Maldives both welcome guest help with turtle, coral and marine ecosystem conservation, while Misool Eco Resort in Raja Ampat has transformed an abandoned shark finning camp into a stunning marine reserve. Finally, Anantara Golden Triangle in Thailand rescues elephants and then teaches guests about caring for the gentle giants.
Q Urban detoxes are tough to slot into your daily life when work and family get in the way. Which would you recommend and how do you stay on track?
A Detoxing while battling through everyday life is a tough ask, but there are a number of companies that try to make it as easy as possible. Many cities across Asia have resources like Hong Kong’s Genie Juicery, who offer deliveries of multi-day juice cleanses complete with sachets of psyllium husk and chia seeds for added fiber and protein. Puriti Programs can be found in resorts or mailed to your home with herbal formulas, supplements and teas that cleanse and revitalise the body, from three to 14 days.
And the meal delivery phenomenon has grown from strength to strength, with companies like Youni prepping week-long meal programmes focused on clean eating, already portioned out and delivered.
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