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A Suffolk hotel has achieved the Green Tourism (GTBS) ‘Silver’ award after a recent inspection.
The 4-star Bedford Lodge Hotel in Newmarket was assessed by a qualified grading advisor, whom scrutinises hotels putting themselves forward in a broad spectrum of areas. These include energy and water efficiency, waste management and supporting the local community among others.
Businesses receive a ‘Bronze’, ‘Silver’ or ‘Gold’ award based on their level of achievement and the standards that they deliver on inspection. The current network of members is comprised of a multitude of business types, including: accommodation providers, visitor attractions, corporate offices and more.
Chief executive Noel Byrne commented: “We are extremely proud to have been awarded a ‘Silver’ by the GTBS. It’s provided us with a great sense of achievement as my staff have worked extremely hard in meeting these sets of criteria and ultimately this award goes to them.”
He added: “We made the decision to go green in August 2011 and not only have we now greatly reduced our carbon footprint but it’s also proved to be highly educational – albeit a little challenging at times!”
The GTBS is the national sustainable tourism certification scheme for the UK. Originally developed in partnership with Visit Scotland, it is now the only national scheme to be independently validated by the International Centre for Responsible Tourism (ICRT) on behalf of Visit England, Visit Wales and the Northern Ireland Tourist Board and endorsed by Visit Scotland and Failte Ireland.
