Fogo Island Inn stands as an exemplary model of regenerative practices in the hospitality industry, embodying the principles of environmental stewardship, community revitalization, and cultural preservation. This innovative project demonstrates how a hotel can become a catalyst for positive change, going beyond sustainability to actively regenerate its surroundings.

The Inn’s commitment to environmental regeneration is evident in its design and operations. Built using regenerative design principles, Fogo Island Inn is constructed to last at least 100 years, minimizing the need for future rebuilding and reducing environmental impact over time. It prioritizes the use of local woods, such as black spruce and yellow birch, sourced from carefully managed forests nearby, supporting sustainable forestry practices while reducing transportation-related emissions. Additionally, the Inn incorporates thermal roof panels and wood-fired boilers to supply hot water for heating and operations, thereby reducing reliance on fossil fuels. A rainwater collection and filtration system is also utilized for toilets, laundry, and kitchen appliances, showcasing leadership in water resource management through ecological wastewater treatment.

Beyond its environmental efforts, Fogo Island Inn serves as a community enterprise that actively contributes to local regeneration. All operating surpluses from the Inn are reinvested in the community through Shorefast, a registered Canadian charity, ensuring that the economic benefits of tourism directly support local development initiatives. The Inn has created job opportunities for local residents, encouraging young families to return to the island and reversing the trend of outmigration while preserving local knowledge and skills. Furthermore, it aims to source 80% of its ingredients from Fogo Island and the surrounding region, supporting local producers and reducing the carbon footprint associated with food transportation.

Overall, Fogo Island Inn’s approach to regeneration is holistic, addressing environmental, social, and economic aspects simultaneously. As a social enterprise, it demonstrates how businesses can be structured to prioritize community benefit over profit maximization. The Inn serves as a living example of regenerative practices, educating guests and the wider public about sustainable and community-centered approaches to tourism. By focusing on long-term community resilience rather than short-term gains, Fogo Island Inn sets a new standard for how hospitality businesses can contribute to regenerative development. This aligns perfectly with the vision of the Regeneration Collection, illustrating that hospitality can indeed be a catalyst for positive environmental and social change.