SOMERSET - A GREEN AND PLEASANT LANDSCAPE!

PROJECT SUMMARY

The overall aim of the project is to increase the number of tourism businesses attaining Green Tourism Business Scheme accreditation, bronze, silver or gold. Currently, this is the only sustainable tourism certification to have achieved national validation and is the largest certification scheme of its type in Europe. This will be achieved through seminars for and advisory visits to businesses by a sustainability consultant.

ABOUT THE PROJECT

Somerset is a great place to visit - fine, typically English countryside, an attractive coastline, interesting towns and villages, intriguing history, rich local produce, a range of attractions and accommodation, welcoming people and easy to get to.  It has much going for it as a tourism destination.  This may be why tourism is now seen as a key industry to drive forward the economy of Somerset, while underpinning the quality of life and the conservation of the many natural and cultural assets upon which it depends. Considering all the jobs supported by tourism, it can be said to account for around 10% of employment within the county.

The way forward for the development of tourism in Somerset is based on the principles of sustainable development which means that tourism planning should be concerned about issues of economic viability and longevity, impacts on local communities, accessibility and opportunities for all, and the future of the global and local environment.  It moves the tourism agenda way beyond simply bringing in more tourists.

The project will be overseen by the Sustainable Tourism Steering Group of the Somerset Tourism Partnership and is in three phases:

Two field trips and workshops to existing Green Tourism Business Scheme (GTBS) Gold Award businesses, to view the environmental measures undertaken, hear practical advice and generally learn more about the scheme. Professional advisers will also attend to interact with participants.

Twenty free on-site advisory visits to businesses thinking of going for the GTBS – Businesses will be offered a free advisory visits to help them formulate their environmental policy which forms the foundation for GTBS accreditation.

Future Development of the project & training: Research into the possibility of running Level 2 Sustainable Tourism qualifications in Somerset, which will include liaison with key partners including the Learning and Skills Council, Tourism Skills Network, Somerset Colleges and specifically the Genesis Centre (SCAT), as well as investigating potential funding sources

Invitations for these events were sent out in November. For more information contact John Carter tel: 01823 355664, email: jdcarter@somerset.gov.uk

This project has been match-funded by the Somerset Tourism Partnership

Go to the Visit Somerset website for a wealth of information about places to visit and events in Somerset for visitors and residents.