The Westcountry is officially leading the way in Green tourism with the commitment of businesses to saving the environment recognised in a prestigious scheme.
The shortlist for the GoldStar Awards, presented by the Green Tourism Business Scheme (GTBS) to recognise the highest achievers over the last 12 months, has just been unveiled.
Out of a total of 53 companies up for an award, an impressive 10 are from Cornwall, who dominate the B&B and guest house category, while two are from Devon.
Chris Searle, of The Old Rectory in Boscastle, said he was pleased that his bid to be environmentally friendly had been shortlisted.
“We are delighted that our longstanding efforts in sustainable tourism have been recognised,” he said.
“We make the business as self sufficient as possible by keeping pigs, sheep, hens, ducks and bees, and growing most of the fruit and vegetables that we use in guests’ breakfasts and evening meals ourselves.
“We also have a solar system that powers the house and exports to the grid.
“Knowing that what we do helps the environment is reward enough, but to be shortlisted is a lovely pat on the back.”
Gill Jenkins who runs the shortlisted Bedknobs B&B in Bodmin, which was one of the first accommodation providers to achieve a GTBS Gold Award in Cornwall, was equally delighted: “We are thrilled to bits to find ourselves included amongst the crème de la crème of sustainable tourism businesses in the UK.”
She said the B&B practised the three Rs – to reduce, reuse and recycle – and two electric vehicle charging points had just been installed.
Mrs Jenkins added: “Achieving a GTBS Gold Award has given us the confidence to promote sustainable tourism both to visitors and locals and being shortlisted for a GTBS Goldstar is quite simply the organic icing on the cake.”
In Devon two firms have been shortlisted for the GTBS, both in best self-catering category; Higher Wiscombe Ltd in Colyton and Podbury’s Cottage near Sidmouth.
Andrea Nicholas, director of the GTBS said: “Each of these businesses have demonstrated an excellent example of good environmental practice.”
Malcolm Bell, head of VisitCornwall, part of Cornwall Development Company, said it was fitting that the county was pioneering in this area. “Cornwall has an amazing natural environment and I think that it is this which inspires Cornish businesses to consider their impact on the environment and take extra steps to be eco,” he said.
“The shortlisted companies are green ambassadors and an example to others, I am proud that so many of them are Cornish.”
The awards will be announced on May 25 at a ceremony in Edinburgh held as part of Green Tourism Week.
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