Write a commentOver 100 tourism businesses throughout Strangford Lough and Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion are attending a series of workshops to learn about the benefits of green tourism and start the process of getting themselves accredited.
Local authorities Ards, Banbridge, Down and Newry and Mourne have won funding from INI and the EU to help these businesses gain green accreditation, either, Bronze, Silver or Gold and to promote the areas as “green” destinations, appealing to the new eco-savvy holidaymakers and tour operators.
The introductory workshops are being held in the area; businesses then get advisory visits to identify how they can save money – on energy, supplies etc. – and introduce green business practices. Businesses then get evaluated for a Green Business tourism award. The project gives businesses two free years’ membership of the scheme and the chance to promote themselves as green.
Speaking at the event in Bagenals Castle, Mayor of Newry and Mourne District Council, Councillor Daire Hughes said" this is an excellent opportunity for local businesses to implement money saving techniques, achieve green accreditation and help differentiate their offering"
The local authorities aim to differentiate the Mournes & Ring of Gullion and Strangford Lough tourism destinations by having up to 100 businesses accredited, with a major marketing campaign in the Spring.
