People come to the Dales because it is such a special and beautiful place, and the future of tourism relies on keeping it special – something that everyone should be concerned about.
Many people believe that taking measures to improve the sustainability of their business will cost considerable amounts of money; you do need to do your sums, but many measures have relatively short pay-back times and long-term cost reduction. It also doesn’t mean sacrificing guest comfort and satisfaction – many actions such as supplying information on local walks and using local food actually add value to the visitor experience.
In fact, many ‘green’ business practices are just good basic common sense that are important to all businesses, as they involve cutting costs and waste.
The Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority and Nidderdale AONB are encouraging businesses to think about what they do and take simple measures to reduce their costs and improve the experience of visitors. Our examples of 'Brilliant Businesses' have been included to inspire others on their journey.
Expert report
We can offer to pay for an expert to come and have a look at your premises and practices, and give you a report on the different measures you could take. To find out more contact the Sustainable Tourism Officer on 0300 456 0030 or email sustainable.tourism@yorkshiredales.org.uk.
Dales Tourism Business Network
Why not join the Dales Tourism Business Network to get access to great events and share knowledge and experiences with tourism providers from across the Dales. It's free and informal and will help you increase your business benefits whilst minimising any threats to the environment.
Green Tourism Business Scheme
Ultimately, you may want to become accredited through the Green Tourism Business Scheme. This is a national scheme which works well for both large and small businesses.
Yes, it can seem an onerous process but it does have real benefits with someone from outside helping to take a hard look at your business, and how you could reduce energy use and costs. Those businesses meeting the required standard receive a Bronze, Silver or Gold Award, which gives them added promotional benefits as well as cost savings.
Energy efficient buildings and energy production
For businesses in the National Park there is the concern that taking action to reduce energy costs through such things as double glazing, or trying to generate electricity through the use of solar pv units on the roof, will not be allowed. This is not necessarily the case and the Guide to Energy Production in the Yorkshire Dales National Park explain what you should be able to do, and those actions that might not need planning permission at all. General advice about what the easy steps you can take to save money and tackle climate change can be found in our Climate Change section.
Reading material
If you would like a quick introduction to sustainable tourism with some practical advice and ideas, take a look at this special edition of 'Sustainable Tourism for Dummies'
Green Start is a special tool from VisitEngland, available at no cost to all tourism businesses interested in understanding how they can save money, encourage greater efficiency, add appeal to their business and begin a journey of doing business even better.
Welcome to Yorkshire's industry website has a special section on sustainable tourism, filled with links to case studies, supporting organisations and advice. Catriona Mclees is Welcome to Yorkshire's Sustainable Tourism Manager.
VisitEngland's website has a good section on sustainable tourism, with information on its strategy, links to other organisations, and some top tips.
