Licensees Urged to Make Green Start
A national tourism agency has launched a scheme to help pubs “go green” – and advertise the fact to customers.
Pubs will be listed on national tourism websites www.visitbritain.com and www.enjoyengland.com, if they take part in the Green Start programme.
It is mainly aimed at pubs with a large tourist trade, particularly those with accommodation.
Green Start involves outlets agreeing to stick to an environmentally friendly code of conduct.
They must meet at least 23 “good practices” from a total of 50, over two years.
These include insulating buildings and water tanks, using low-energy lighting, collecting rain water, recycling, using locally-sourced produce, or promoting eco-friendly travel such as cycling.
Pubs can take part via an online self assessment.
The usual £25 registration cost is being waived for the first 500 businesses that sign up during the three-month pilot period.
The scheme is headed by the Government-backed tourism agency VisitBritain and aims to encourage the adoption of sustainable tourism principles in the UK.
Jason Freezer, VisitBritain’s sustainable tourism project manager, said: “VisitBritain is committed to encouraging sustainable businesses. However, nearly two thirds tell us they need more guidance.
“Green Start is an initial step in helping more of our tourism businesses improve their existing practices and signal to visitors that they recognise the increasing importance and value of sustainable good practice.”
To take part in Green Start call 0845 300 6996. VisitBritain hopes businesses that take part in Green Start will also go for more formal accreditation such as the Green Tourism Business Scheme – see www.green-business.co.uk.
