Local Tourism Businesses begin their Journey on the Sustainable Business Pathway

29th January 2025

The Sustainable Business Pathway Programme aims to inspire collective sustainable action across Ards and North Down and help businesses achieve cost savings.

Designed to foster strong connections, enhance expertise, and establish best practices among participants. Its goal is to create a thriving network of sustainable tourism businesses that can confidently adapt to evolving visitor expectations.

On Tuesday 28 January 11 local tourism business began their journey, learning about concepts of Sustainable and Regenerative Tourism, a pathway to developing a Sustainable Tourism Action Plan and Sustainability Management System.

Participants included:
Kiri Cottage Crafts | Lightfoot | WWT Castle Espie | The Old Inn | Eastwell Farm Alpacas | Mrs Maker is Art | NI Silver | Gifted Enterprise NI | Ballyboley Dexters | Cairn Bay Lodge | Exploris Aquarium and Seal Santuary

On completion of the programme participants will develop the skills to measure their carbon footprint, set meaningful improvement targets, and create a comprehensive sustainability action plan. This plan will cover key areas such as climate action, biodiversity, accessibility, outdoor ethics, and marketing. Graduates will be equipped to lead in sustainable experience development and inspire others by showcasing best practices across the Borough.

Delivered by Ards and North Down Borough Council, in partnership with Tourism Northern Ireland, facilitated by The Tourism Space.

Find out more about Sustainable Tourism in Ards and North Down, including our #ANDSustainableGiants - A Green Tourism Network