11 Apr 2025

Tourism Northern Ireland's Sustainable Tourism Business Programme

Ten local businesses have this week gained invaluable insights into developing their own sustainable action plans through Tourism Northern Ireland’s Sustainable Tourism Business Programme.

The 12-week initiative, delivered by The Tourism Space, supports businesses to become advocates for sustainable tourism experiences in Northern Ireland.
 
It aims to provide businesses with the ability to measure their carbon footprint and set meaningful targets for sustainable business improvements.
 
This week saw representatives from businesses based in Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council and Ards and North Down Borough Council areas take part in the field trip element of the scheme.
 
During this, course participants had the opportunity to meet members of Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark’s Regenerative Tourism Business Network, an in-destination network of businesses committed to driving sustainable tourism development in their local area.
 
The trip itinerary also included visits to Erne Water Taxi, Belmore Court & Motel, Enniskillen, Blue Green Yonder, Marble Arch Caves and Tully Mill Restaurant.
 
The businesses involved are the third and fourth cohorts of the programme, running in partnership with Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council and Ards and North Down Borough Council.
 
Upon completion, they will achieve a Level 4 Certificate of Achievement in Sustainable Tourism Practice in Destinations from Ulster University.
 
Jessica Hoyle, Experience Development Manager at Tourism Northern Ireland, said: “It’s been an extremely engaging and informative day for our course participants at Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark.
 
“The field trip is a key part of the course, offering participants a chance to connect with other tourism businesses and hear directly from peers about implementing sustainable initiatives.
 
“These insights will be invaluable as they develop their own sustainable action plans and achieve their Level 4 certification from Ulster University.”