Omno and ESG (part 1): Our Commitment to Living Sea Conservation and Sustainable Practices
Omno is not only dedicated to providing high-quality, eco-friendly products but also committed to making a positive impact on the environment and society. Our environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives focus on supporting coral reef conservation and providing job training opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities. Let's dive into our collaboration with Living Sea Conservation, the importance of coral reefs, and why our ESG commitments matter.
Omno's ESG Initiatives
Since our inception in 2022, Omno has been proudly contributing a portion of our sales to Living Sea Conservation, a non-profit organization dedicated to restoring coral reefs in Padangbai, East Bali, utilizing Handprint Technology, the world's leading environmental and social regeneration platform, to maximize our positive impact on the planet.
Additionally, we collaborate with the Thye Hua Kwan Moral Society to provide job training opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities. These initiatives align with our mission to make a positive difference in society and the environment.
Living Sea Conservation and Coral Reefs
Living Sea Conservation has been working tirelessly since 2008 to restore balance to our oceans and address climate change. With over 10 years of experience in coral conservation, they have successfully implemented four coral projects and brought marine life back to the restored reefs. Their current mission is to restore one hectare of corals in Padangbai, East Bali.
Coral reefs, often referred to as the "rainforests of the sea," are vital for the environment, economy, and local communities. They support a diverse ecosystem, provide coastal protection, and contribute significantly to the global economy through reef tourism. However, an estimated 75% of the world's coral reefs are at risk, and at least 10% have already died. These invaluable underwater ecosystems play a crucial role in dissipating 97% of the energy that would otherwise hit shorelines, safeguarding 197 million people who live below 10 m elevation and within 50 km of reefs. By reducing annual expected damage from storms by more than $4 billion, coral reefs serve as indispensable guardians of our coastal communities and economies.
Coral reefs face numerous threats, many of which are caused by human activities. Irresponsible human behavior, such as taking coral pieces home, trawling or bombing fishing areas, and walking on coral reefs, often leads to significant damage. Climate change is another major factor, causing rising sea temperatures and ocean acidification, which can lead to coral bleaching and the dissolution of coral skeletons.
Animal predation also poses a threat to coral reefs, with creatures such as Crown of Thorns starfish and corallivorous snails feeding on the coral. Overtourism can result in the destruction of delicate coral structures due to an increased number of visitors and a lack of adequate supervision.
Sedimentation, or the covering of corals with sand, can occur naturally during storms or be exacerbated by divers and snorkelers who stir up sand due to improper swimming techniques. Finally, water pollutants caused by poor waste management can have a devastating impact on coral reefs, as toxins and trash accumulate in the ocean, harming marine life in the process.
Living Sea Conservation aims to regrow 50,000 square meters of coral reefs and has already made significant progress. They have planted 2,185 reef stars, regrown 1,375.8 square meters of corals, and planted 39,330 coral fragments. With a strong commitment to transparency, they ensure that 100% of public donations go towards building the reefs and supporting local communities.
Why Restoring Corals Matters for Singapore and Beyond
Singapore, an island nation, relies heavily on its surrounding marine ecosystems for various aspects of its economy and overall wellbeing. Supporting coral reef conservation efforts, such as those undertaken by Living Sea Conservation, is essential for maintaining the ecological balance and protecting the livelihoods of local communities.ESG initiatives like those embraced by Omno contribute to a sustainable future for all. By focusing on environmental and social responsibilities, businesses can help create a better world for both people and the planet.
At Omno, we believe that businesses should have a positive impact on society and the environment. Through our ESG initiatives, we are proud to support Living Sea Conservation's coral restoration efforts and provide job training opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities. By choosing Omno's body washes, lotions, and shampoos, you are not only treating yourself to top-quality, eco-friendly products, but also playing a part in building a more sustainable and inclusive world. Together, we can make a difference for the environment, society, and future generations.
