Green Certification

What is Green certification?

Green certification is the process of getting your business evaluated to prove to potential customers that you are a making a minimum impact on the environment.

How do I get evaluated?

The Green Tourism Business Scheme (GTBS) is an independent accreditation scheme that is currently the only scheme in the UK to be successfully validated by the International Centre for Responsible Tourism which examines the credibility of a scheme's assessment system. Other schemes (such as the David Bellamy Conservation Award for holiday parks) are in the process of being validated and more information on these will be added once they are successful. 

The Green Tourism Business Scheme is Europe's largest 'green' certification scheme for the tourism sector. The scheme currently has over 1,800 businesses participating throughout the UK, and has been operating across the South West since the end of 2005 with hundreds of businesses proving and promoting their green credentials.

For frequently asked questions and answers about the scheme, click here.

To visit the Green Tourism Business Scheme website and find out more information on the scheme and how to join click here.

To find out more about the experiences of the first businesses in the region to go through the Green Tourism Business Scheme and the difference it made to their business, take a look at the 'Celebrating Success' booklet.

Click on the image to the right to download.

What are the advantages of green certification?

Businesses are finding visitors increasingly responsive, whilst national and local surveys show visitors perceive green certified businesses to be of a higher quality, and are even prepared to pay a little extra. Businesses involved with the Green Tourism Business Scheme can also benefit from:

• Increased business efficiency with cost savings on energy bills and more.
• Listing on the GTBS website where potential customers can search for green businesses.
• Increased visitor satisfaction.
• Enhanced quality and image.
• New marketing opportunities.
• Increased staff satisfaction.

In addition, support is available for businesses joining the scheme. You will be sent a full report with feedback and awarded a Bronze, Silver or Gold award after evaluation. You will also receive a plaque and certificate, along with relevant advice and information on new technologies, case studies, financial support, and more.