Three popular visitor attractions run by the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority have joined Green Key, the environmental accreditation promoting sustainable tourism.
Carew Castle and Tidal Mill, Castell Henllys Iron Age Village and Oriel y Parc Gallery and Visitor Centre have have joined over 2,300 attractions, hotels, B&Bs, campsites and restaurants in around 50 countries worldwide in securing the Green Key standard.
The Green Key is awarded to businesses that promote sustainable development and environmental awareness and also strive to reduce the environmental impact and consumption, in turn reducing costs.
National Park Authority Chairman Cllr Mike James said: “The Authority works hard to promote sustainability in all areas of its work, from supporting the coastal bus network to encouraging sustainable development through the planning process and the Sustainable Development Fund.
“The National Park Authorities are seen as exemplars in sustainable development and the Green Key is another way we can demonstrate how this can be beneficial to businesses as well as the environment.
“Examples of our commitment to sustainability can be seen at all three sites, in particular Oriel y Parc, where it was a key consideration in the design, appearance and materials used for construction.”
Green Key was successfully piloted in Pembrokeshire by Keep Wales Tidy with funding from the National Park Authority’s Sustainable Development Fund. There are now 17 businesses in Wales accredited by the Green Key Wales scheme.
Lesley Jones, Chief Executive of Keep Wales Tidy added: “Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority is at the forefront of sustainable tourism, so we are delighted that it has recognised the importance of Green Key, by both funding the pilot and gaining accreditation. We are absolutely delighted to welcome the Authority to Green Key.”
A 2012 Visit Wales survey found that travellers and tourists are increasingly aware of the importance of supporting socially responsible and environmentally sustainable businesses, with 72% of visitors in Wales rating environmental factors important in choosing their holiday destination.
Hospitality providers throughout Wales can apply for Green Key accreditation. For more information contact greenkey@keepwalestidy.org.uk or www.greenkey.org.uk.