Who’s who for green businesses

A SCOTTISH initiative to give businesses and customers a universal guide to who’s green and who’s not has been approved by all five UK tourism agencies.

The Perth-based Green Tourism Business Scheme is the first ever to be independently validated by the International Centre for Responsible Tourism (ICRT) on behalf of VisitEngland, VisitWales and the Northern Ireland Tourist Board, and endorsed by VisitScotland and Failte Ireland.

The scheme started in Scotland 15 years ago. Dr Xavier Font of Leeds Metropolitan University’s International Centre for Responsible Tourism, said: “With over 2,400 certified businesses in Britain and Ireland, the Green Tourism Business Scheme is the largest sustainable tourism certification in the world.”

Started by directors Jon Proctor and Andrea Nicholas, together with VisitScotland, the scheme provides consumers with an independent guide to hotels, bed and breakfasts, tourist attractions and visitor centres which are actively trying to help the environment.

Members get Bronze, Silver or Gold grades based on how environmentally friendly they are through their use of energy saving lights and heating, serving local food stuffs, promoting conservation and other measures.