New Scheme To Promote Green Tourism
June 4th, 2008
The Govt has announced a new Qualmark Green rating system for tourism companies that meet benchmarks for energy efficiency, water management, water conservation and community responsibility. The scheme, which begins is August, is aimed at countering fears among environmentally-conscious travellers from the Northern Hemisphere that they should avoid coming to NZ because of the carbon emissions involved in long-haul flying.
Tourism operators’ green credentials will be recognised by Enviro-Gold, Enviro-Silver and Enviro-Bronze ratings. The continuing successes of “100% Pure NZ,” as well as the launch of Qualmark Green, are directed towards a world which is undoubtedly more environmentally-sensitive. In fact, the new Qualmark initiative has been lauded as a model for the rest of the world to follow, to promote the concept of environmentally sustainable tourism.
Tourism NZ CEO George Hickton is dismissing suggestions the scheme is “greenwash” and stresses there is a very real checklist, with businesses required to put in place comprehensive record and review systems. Hickton adds businesses that are making an effort to be environmentally sound, deserve to be recognised.
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