Sustainability at SOMA Lorna Jane
At SOMA Lorna Jane, our approach to sustainability is grounded in intention, a commitment to living lightly on the land, supporting our local community, and creating spaces that feel both restorative and responsible.
Rather than making broad claims, we focus on practical actions and continuous improvement, recognising that sustainability is an ongoing journey shaped by learning, transparency, and care.
Water
Water is a vital resource in the Byron hinterland, and we aim to use it thoughtfully across the property.
SOMA Lorna Jane operates using a combination of rainwater collection and town water supply, supporting both self-sufficiency and reliability. We continue to explore ways to optimise water use across guest and operational areas.
Waste
Reducing waste is a key focus of our day-to-day operations.
Food waste is collected and composted on-site, with plans underway to further integrate this into future garden initiatives. Across the property, we are actively reducing single-use plastics by using refillable systems where possible and selecting products designed for reuse.
Cleaning & Materials
We prioritise lower-impact cleaning practices to support a safe environment for both guests and staff.
Where possible, we use GECA-certified, refillable cleaning products supplied by Australian company Eco Organics. We continue to review all cleaning inputs across the property to increase alignment with these standards over time.
Guest amenities are provided by Mukti Organics, with bottles refilled multiple times before being recycled, reducing single-use packaging while supporting an Australian brand.
Food & Sourcing
Food at SOMA Lorna Jane is shaped by the people who prepare it and the seasons in which it is served.
We work with a range of caterers and retreat hosts, many of whom prioritise fresh, locally sourced ingredients from the Byron region. While approaches may vary between retreats; we encourage practices that support local producers and minimise unnecessary waste.
Community & Culture
We believe that wellbeing is deeply connected to community.
SOMA Lorna Jane partners with The Returning, offering the venue at a reduced rate for retreats supporting Indigenous women and Elders. We also continue to explore ways to deepen our connection to local culture and community through partnerships and programming.
Design & Space
SOMA Lorna Jane has been designed to exist in harmony with its natural surroundings, creating a space that invites reflection, stillness, and connection to place.
The property features a curated selection of artworks, including pieces by local artists. We are continuing to evolve how art and design within the space reflect both the region and the stories connected to it.
Our Approach
We recognise that sustainability is not defined by a single initiative, but by the choices made over time.
Our focus is on making considered, lower-impact decisions where possible.
Working with partners who share similar values.
Being transparent about where we are today, and where we are still improving
As our practices evolve, we will continue to update this page to reflect our progress.
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