The number of Clare businesses adopting a ground-breaking sustainable tourism strategy for the Burren region has surged in recent weeks.
70 firms have now signed up for the Geopark Code of Practice which aims to enrich the visitor experience and enhance local economies.
From a hotel harnessing all its electricity needs through hydropower, to an artisan producer embracing sustainable farming, the 70 members of the Burren Ecotourism Network are applying a wide array of measures to improve cost efficiencies and reduce emissions.
The Geo Park Code of Practice is founded on six key principles, which include strengthening livelihoods by supporting local employment, developing vibrant communities, sharing resources and ensuring a cared for landscape.
Burren Smokehouse is one of the small and medium enterprises that have taken steps to measure and manage their energy and water consumption.
Since installing solar panels in August, it’s reported savings of more than €1,000 in electricity bills and is now hoping to reduce its dependency on the national grid by 30%.
On top of this, the Seafood enterprise has also committed to strengthening ties with local producers.
Owner and CEO of Burren Smokehouse Birgitta Hedin-Curtin says having strong community links is vital for small businesses to survive in the modern day and age.
The code of practice is the first of its kind in Ireland and while it’s funded by Clare County Council, the initiative is third party verified by the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark, to ensure participating businesses are compliant.
Among the other firms to adopt progressive operational changes is Hotel Doolin, which has developed a thirty-mile menu, while the Michael Cusack Centre in Carron has planted hundreds of healthy ash tries in a bid to combat the widespread effects of ash dieback disease on local plantations.
Geraldine Enright, who’s the General Manager of Cliffs of Moher Clare Tourism North West, says the economic benefits are immense.
You can listen to the full interview below.
