81% of tourism firms believe eco’ responsible practices are good idea

British tourism association UKinbound unveiled the results of its new May/June Business Barometer survey today, focusing on the plans of the country’s travel and hospitality firms to assuage their impact on the environment and work towards greener operational values.

UKinbound asked its participants to opine on their sustainability practises, revealing that over 81% of tourism businesses think it is important to implement sustainable and environmental policies for their businesses and clients. Though, frankly, I would have hoped to see 100%.

“It is in all our interests to nurture and take care of our beautiful landscapes, cities, towns and villages”

All of these companies have installed practical measures to negate the impact of their business on the environment, with 59% slashing single use plastics, 49% reducing their carbon footprint, and over 1 in 5 using renewable energy. 40% of respondents also said that they are working with eco-friendly partners, have ‘green champions’ in the workplace, and are recycling/reducing food waste.

Joss Croft, CEO, UKinbound commented: “It is great to know that our members care deeply about the environment and are taking positive action to minimise the impact of their businesses and clients.  After all – it is in all our interests to nurture and take care of our beautiful landscapes, cities, towns and villages, as this is one of the main reasons why the majority of international tourists visit the UK.

“In addition to our research, the Environmental Audit Select Committee is conducting an inquiry into sustainable tourism.  We are looking forward to reading their recommendations and supporting these where we can on behalf of our members.”

Andrea Nicholas (right), managing director of Green Tourism added “Over the last two years we have seen over a 400% increase from tourism and hospitality businesses wanting to explore how to improve their sustainable practises and how to evidence their achievements to their increasingly inquisitive consumers.

“Our significant growth has come from hotel groups and other hospitality businesses seeking validation and accreditation that their practises are being managed efficiently and cost effectively (particularly our new energy audit, which guarantees significant cost savings).”