Malvern Hills District Council is recognising the efforts of local tourism businesses in reducing their impact on the environment with its very own scheme. The council is the first local authority to launch the Green Tourism Accreditation Scheme which offers Green Mark accreditation specifically for tourism and hospitality businesses operating across The Malverns.
The Green Mark promotes a commitment for adopting greener tourism business practices and tourism businesses will become part of a Visit The Malverns Sustainable Tourism Business Group. Local hospitality businesses have already achieved a Green Mark, including The Cottage in the Wood Hotel located in Malvern which underwent an extensive refurbishment with green measures in place, along with a continued commitment to reduce the hotels impact on the natural environment.
The Fold in Bransford has also been awarded the Green Mark for their commitment to adopting greener practices (including a biomass bolier and solar panels) and for educating others about the benefits of leading a more environmentally concious life. Other businesses include Black Dog Adventures CIC, Hazelhurst Farm and Rowley Farm Holidays who is also a finalist in the VisitEngland Awards for New Tourism Business of the Year.
Councillor Daniel Walton, Portfolio Holder for Tourism and Economic Development at Malvern Hills District Council, said: “This is a great opportunity for our outstanding tourism businesses to get involved, and play an important role in helping the area become a recognised green tourism destination.”
Visitor Economy Officer at Malvern Hills District Council, Victoria Carman, said: “It's fantastic news to see so many businesses interested in the Greek Mark programme. The first businesses to be awarded the Green Mark showed great commitment in adopting greener practices and I know there will be many more to follow”.
Businesses are encouraged to take the Sustainable Tourism Quiz, to help measure where they are in relation to adopting greener business practices and to find out whether they are eligible for a Visit The Malverns Green Mark.
