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A Quality Labelling System For Ecotourism in the Greenbox
The Greenbox is a completely unique region and is a natural location for
The geographic area is surrounded by water on all sides by the Shannon Erne Waterway, Lough Erne and The Atlantic Ocean. The region, which was once overshadowed by conflict, is now one of the most peaceful places in
The unspoilt nature of the Greenbox has contributed to attracting a high concentration of "green" and ecotourism operators to the region. The Greenbox is working to develop these resources further and to create a world class ecotourism destination with a strong focus on raising ecotourism standards. This is being achieved through a model of tourism partnership and brings together representatives from many national, regional and local agencies. In addition many sound environmental enterprises, ecotourism products and community initiatives fall under the Greenbox umbrella.
Responsible Tourism Ltd (Trading as Greenbox Ltd) is a cross border organisation in the Northwest of Ireland that has been set up to stimulate the development of ecotourism in the region. To achieve these ends we have facilitated the development of an ecotourism quality label that we hope will continue to strengthen the Greenbox brand, and which will defend the ethical values of existing Greenbox ecotourism promoters. In addition the label has been designed to guide visitors travel choices and help them to choose promoters of ecotourism products and the experiences they have on offer.
Core to ecotourism and to the Greenbox philosophy is the concept of environmental sustainability and the label has been very much developed with this in mind, in order to ensure that the environmental impacts of Greenbox products are minimised. The label also encourages proactive nature conservation and the promotion of local cultural values, while at the same time developing our local economy and the long term viability of the Greenbox destination.
For further reading on this Standard, please Click Here
Click here for a guide to the Greenbox Ecotourism Label.
The European Eco-label for tourist accommodation services and camp site services (The EU Flower)
The European Eco-label for tourist accommodation service was created to reward accommodation services and tourists who respect the environment. It signals good environmental performance and gives an assurance of added quality for consumers choosing accommodation. Enterprises bearing the Flower Logo have officially been distinguished as being amongst the most environmentally friendly in their area.
Why have the European Commission launched the EU Flower label for tourism?
The Eco-label-scheme is a consequence of the EU "strategy of sustainable development" which has become a paramount objective of the European Union since the Amsterdam Treaty in 1997. Thus it integrates the three main pillars of sustainability: environment, society and economy. The global sustainable development process has evolved since the Rio Earth Summit in 1992. The examination of a tourist accommodation service on its ecological benefits is performed by independent testers thus the EU Flowers high standard is guaranteed Europe wide.
Where can I find more information?
More information on the standard can be found at the dedicated EU Flower for tourist accommodation website: www.eco-label-tourism.com
