Green Tourism Business Scheme
The Green Tourism Business Scheme (GTBS) is a marketing and advisory tool for tourism businesses supporting the local area and environment. Any type of tourism business (accommodation, attraction, restaurant / café, other retail, TIC etc) can take part.
It is Europe’s largest green accreditation scheme for the tourism sector, enabling businesses to:
• operate more efficiently making year-on-year cost savings
• identify actions to increase customer comfort and satisfaction
• possess an award that enhances image and gives marketing advantage
• improve staff satisfaction
GTBS is now officially endorsed and marketed by VisitBritain, giving welcome added profile to member businesses. The scheme’s emphasis is on being rewarded for action, and businesses receive credit for measures they have taken in relation to the following areas:
• energy
• water
• waste
• support of the local economy
• wildlife
• involving and informing customers
• transport
• management and marketing
There are approximately 150 measures that receive credit, and businesses can ‘pick and mix’ from the categories according to their strengths, although to ensure that each business has a balanced approach, there is a minimum number of actions that will need to be completed in each of the areas.
There are three levels to aim for:- Bronze, Silver & Gold.
Assessments take place once every two years. Visits are by appointment only and carried out by trained auditors. Dialogue is central to the visits to identify sources of help for realising any missed opportunities.
Contact Email:
Organisation:
Tourism South East
Funding Details:
Fees variable depending on size and type of tourism businesses. GTBS is not for profit
Status:
Ongoing
Organisation’s website:
http://www.green-business.co.uk
Keywords relating to this case study:
Energy, waste, water resource management, green transport, recycling and composting, reducing packaging, local suppliers, wildlife
South East groups case study relates to:
Tourism
