THE Green Tourism Business Scheme has reported a 50 per cent rise in the number of applications to its world-famous independent certification scheme compared to the same time last year.
Says a spokesperson: “An increase in staycations along with a desire to save money and reduce unnecessary expenditure has prompted an increase in interest from accommodation providers, holiday resorts and visitor centres looking to enrol in the GTBS.
“Many organisations that assumed ‘going green’ would be more expensive have discovered the reverse is true. With a little help in how to use fewer resources, increase efficiency and avoid waste businesses have learned how to save money and improve their bottom line.”
Says Andrea Nicholas, director of the GTBS: “Over the past four years, Green Tourism has gone from strength to strength and our membership now stands at more than 2,400 businesses.
“Despite the recession we enjoyed good growth during 2008 and 2009. However, last year there was a slight slow down in momentum and, like most other companies in the country, we have gone through a period of reorganisation.
“We have refined a number of our procedures, updated practices and invested in better use of technology. As a result our streamlined team of six independent assessors is better equipped to provide a stronger and more efficient service for members in keeping with our position as the world’s leading independent green certification scheme.
“As a result of our highly successful Green Tourism Week in June, and other promotional activities undertaken over the past 12 months, we have had a significant increase in interest and a higher application rate than this time last year.”
She continued: “The Green Tourism Business Scheme is the only National tourism certification programme in the UK endorsed by VisitEngland, VisitScotland and VisitWales and has been validated by the International Centre for Responsible Tourism since 2008.
“Members have to meet rigorous minimal standards from over 145 measures of best practice before being awarded a bronze, silver or gold award. The measures include a range of actions from efficient lighting and heating, to nature conservation, renewable energy, use of local produce and community involvement.
“In the last three years, the scheme’s unique approach has been used as the inspiration for similar schemes in Canada, New Zealand, Sweden and Eire.”
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For more information about the GTBS please visit www.green-business.co.uk or contact Peppercorn PR on 0845 217 8757.
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