Falmouth has joined the select band of Cornish destinations at the forefront of Green Tourism, after its oldest hotel, the Greenbank, scooped the town’s first ever Gold rating in the prestigious national scheme.
The Green Tourism Business Scheme, created to encourage environmental consideration in Britain’s tourist industry, inspected the historic hotel against some 150 best practice standards before awarding its highest possible accolade.
The Greenbank has now become one of just six hotels in Cornwall – and nine in the South West region as a whole – to bear the coveted Gold status plaque.
General manager Kearan McVey said: “The Greenbank enjoys a beautiful environment, and we’ve always strived to keep it that way. This recognition proves we’re doing something right, and we hope it casts Falmouth in a great light, too.”
Credit for the award was given to the hotel’s “Green Team” – a group of seven frontline staff who have spearheaded its ecological efforts.
Initiatives singled out for praise included the hotel’s green information area – cited as one of the UK’s best – along with innovative use of eco-friendly showerheads and low-energy lighting and extensive use of local and fairtrade produce.
Other notable schemes included beach cleaning with Surfers Against Sewage, local schools and charity work and corporate membership of the Cornwall Wildlife Trust. The hotel also offers a discount to guests who arrive by public transport.
Green Tourism grading advisor Stuart Park, who led the inspection, said: “‘The Greenbank Hotel has shown a real commitment to sustainable tourism resulting in a well deserved GTBS Gold Award. Guests can enjoy their stay in Cornwall with assurance that the hotel and its dedicated staff are reducing environmental impacts by minimising energy, water and waste, as well as benefiting the community of Falmouth through charitable donations and beach clean-up projects.”
Greenbank assistant reception manager and Green Team leader Beverley Dobell added: “This is a fantastic reward for the hard work and determination of all our Green Team members.”
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