Gain a globally recognised sustainability certification
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What is the Green Tourism Programme?

Green Tourism promotes greener ways for businesses and organisations to operate by offering advice on:

  • Reducing energy use
  • Saving water
  • Efficient & eco-friendly waste disposal
  • Ethical buying
  • Staying local & seasonal
  • Minimising food miles
  • Promoting biodiversity

The awards certification programme Green Tourism run recognises the commitment of tourism businesses which are actively working to become more sustainable. The Bronze/Silver/Gold awards are acknowledged worldwide as an indicator of good environmentally-friendly practice, and are a great way of progressing on a green journey as well as acting as a hallmark of ‘green quality’, attracting custom from increasing numbers of eco-minded visitors.

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What are we offering?

Destination North East England are offering a fully funded year-one membership of Green Tourism to the first 100 visitor economy businesses to apply successfully – plus 50% and 25% discounts in the second and third years respectively.

We’re also offering 25 funded memberships of Green Meetings – the certification tailored specifically for business meeting venues and events providers.

Membership allows businesses to achieve certification in Green Tourism or Green Meetings (or both) at Bronze, Silver, or Gold level.

Businesses that successfully submit for assessment by 31 March 2025 only will receive extended fully funded membership until 30th June 2026.

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Why should you get involved?

  • Earn a world-leading sustainability certification
  • Evidence your sustainability commitment to customers and buyers
  • Identify areas for sustainability improvement, potentially saving you resources and reducing costs
  • Get expert sustainability support
  • Access marketing resources to help promote your achievements
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About Green Tourism

  • They are the leading sustainability certification programme, operating since 1997, with 3,000 certified businesses in 30 countries.
  • They are committed to advancing sustainability standards in the visitor economy, and M&E sector
  • They empower businesses with the practical solutions and frameworks to make change.
  • Their team of qualified and experienced sustainability assessors has undertaken 15,000+ assessments and advised thousands of businesses
  • Based on three pillars of caring for People, Places and our Planet, the Green Tourism and Green Meetings criteria cover 70+ indicators across 15 sustainability goals.
Join today
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Green Tourism

Click below if you are interested in finding out if you are eligible.
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