South Hams Green Tourism Conference – a great success!
23 November 2004
On Thursday November 18th over 70 delegates from 45 different councils and government bodies met at the impressive venue of Dartington Hall to hear about the South Hams’ achievements in the field of sustainable tourism. This was a show case event designed to share knowledge and experiences with others and to help them implement similar measures in their parts of the country.
The morning was spent learning about the different aspects of sustainable tourism practiced in the South Hams and which lead to the award of Beacon Council status by the ODPM (Office of the Deputy Prime Minister) last April. There was particular interest in the workshops covering the pioneering Green Tourism Business Scheme and the Visitor Payback Scheme – On the Right Tracks.
After a lunch of local produce provided by Dartington Hall the delegates went out on consecutive study tours of the area, visiting the National Trust’s Greenway Gardens using sustainable transport links; and Blackpool Sands, where after a walk up Mill Lane in the Blackpool Valley they had the chance to hear first hand about the Visitor Payback Scheme from Mike Smith of the Venus Café.
The feedback from the delegates was exceedingly positive. Martin Wickham from North Devon said “Seeing green tourism in action and hearing the representatives of the private sector endorse it” was very encouraging. A representative from the Broads Authority, Norfolk found inspiration from “the general enthusiasm of all the contributors and the obvious way in which partnership working is employed in the area” along with “the energy and commitment that South Hams are giving to sustainable tourism”.
All in all it was an informative and thought provoking day. South Hams District Council would like to thank all the local businesses who gave their time and helped to make the day so successful: The Royal Castle Hotel, Kingsbridge Information Centre, The National Trust – Greenway Gardens, Riverlink, Tally Ho Coaches and The Venus Café
Further events will be held throughout the spring of 2005 to give a deeper insight into sustainable and environmentally friendly tourism in the South Hams.
South Hams green tourism scoops national award
Tuesday 6 April 2004
The South Hams has scooped prestigious national award for its sustainable tourism schemes – meaning it is on track to become England’s top green holiday destination.
South Hams District Council has been awarded coveted Beacon Status for its green tourism initiatives by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister. It was one of only six authorities in England to make the grade.
Green tourism is becoming big business. Around four in five holidaymakers prefer companies with an environmental accreditation, according to the English Tourism Council.
Beacon status means the South Hams will be held up as a national example of best practice in the field. It is also expected to generate thousands in extra Government funding towards sustainable tourism schemes.
The announcement – made in London today by Local Government Minister Nick Raynsford – is a huge boost for the dozens of local businesses who have supported green tourism in the district.
Some 36 local holiday companies carry gold, silver or bronze awards for their environmentally-sound practices. Another 37 are involved in the visitor payback scheme, in which businesses and holidaymakers raise money together for green lane conservation.
Holiday businesses joining the scheme take part in a green audit, which identifies what changes they can make to save energy and limit pollution. Once members of the scheme, companies have access to discounted suppliers, business support and can market their green credentials.
South Hams Council’s Executive member for tourism, Cllr Rosemary Rowe, said: “This is a fantastic achievement for the district. Beacon status puts the South Hams on the national map. It will say to people who want to have a great holiday with a clear conscience, this is the best place to go.”
David Ashworth at Edeswell Farm in Rattery, who has a Gold award for his holiday business, said: "When you’re saving money, impressing visitors, and almost fully booked, helping the environment creates a real feel good factor."
