Tourism Businesses Invited to Express Interest in Sustainable Business Pathway Programme

30th October 2024

Photo caption: The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Alistair Cathcart, with Alex Irvine (Tourism Manager) and Jessica Hoyle (Experience Brand Manager, Tourism Northern Ireland).

Ards and North Down Borough Council, in partnership with Tourism Northern Ireland, is inviting expressions of interest from tourism businesses based within the Borough to participate in an innovative business sustainability programme.

Facilitated by The Tourism Space, this programme aims to inspire collective sustainable action across Ards and North Down and help businesses achieve cost savings. On completion of the programme, participants will be expected to achieve a Level 4 Certificate in Sustainable Tourism Practice in Destinations, accredited by Ulster University.

The programme offers structured mentoring and training, enabling businesses across Ards and North Down to develop sustainable tourism offerings, reduce waste, water, and energy consumption, and demonstrate a genuine commitment to sustainability.

The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Alistair Cathcart, said:
“The Sustainable Business Pathway Programme is designed to build strong relationships, enhance knowledge, and establish best practices among participants, ultimately leading to a thriving cluster of sustainable tourism businesses who can confidently respond to evolving visitor expectations. By participating, you will gain the tools and knowledge needed to pursue third-party sustainability accreditation.

“Those who complete the programme will have gained the skills to measure their carbon footprint and set meaningful improvement targets as well as develop a sustainability action plan that includes climate action, biodiversity, accessibility, outdoor ethics, and marketing. They will lead in sustainable experience development and be able to set an example for others by showcasing sustainable practices and experiences across our Borough.”

This programme is most suitable for business owners or senior decision-makers with fixed premises or assets that can be assessed for sustainability improvements. There is no requirement to have any previous sustainability knowledge or certification as the modules are designed to support businesses at all stages of their sustainability journey.

Participation in the core programme is fully funded by Tourism NI and the Council, representing an in-kind investment of over £2,000. Upon completing the programme, successful participants will receive a certificate and join a network of businesses committed to enhancing Northern Ireland's sustainability.

While the core programme is fully funded, participants are expected to achieve the Level 4 Certificate in Sustainable Tourism Practice in Destinations through Ulster University. The cost for this certification is £200 and does not require additional work to what is included in the core programme. The cost for this certification is £400 with each business paying £200 and the additional £200 covered by funders.

Expressions of interest must be received by 12noon on Wednesday 6 November 2024. Find out more