More Scottish travel companies are being encouraged to go green through a new initiative encouraging responsible travel. ‘Going Green’ has been developed by the National Tourism Board ‘VisitScotland’ to motivate tourism businesses towards becoming more responsible, up to entering the Green Tourism Business Scheme (GTBS).
The CTBS scheme has more than 800 members across Scotland from B&Bs to international hotel chains and tourist attractions. GTBS businesses have to undertake various measures (from energy, waste, water, purchasing to transport) to work more efficiently and importantly are assessed to verify how much is being achieved.
Those who successfully meet the required standard are being awarded either a Bronze, Silver or Gold award based on their level of achievement, which can then be promoted to visitors.
Jim Mather, the Scottish Minister for Tourism said: “I welcome this new practical initiative, ‘Going Green’ which gives the tourism sector the opportunity to become more sustainable. Businesses can make savings by taking simple steps such as saving energy or reducing waste and I’m confident this will result in even more businesses making a commitment to sustainability.
“Visitors are increasingly keen to reduce their impact on the environment while enjoying Scotland, and this initiative puts Scotland firmly on track in assuring them about our determination to tackle climate change.
“Climate change is a serious challenge, and Scotland has set a globally ambitious target of reducing emissions by 80% by 2050. To meet that everyone must play their part, and this initiative is another firm step in the right direction.”
For more information on the Going Green scheme visit www.Greentourism.org