Brendan is First Irish Tour Op to Earn Gold Certification from Sustainable Tourism Network
by Bruce Parkinson
Brendan Vacations has achieved the highest level of certification from the Sustainable Tourism Network, becoming the first Irish-based tour company to earn a gold standard certification for sustainability.
“Earning this achievement is a testament to our dedication to eco-conscious travel. From implementing a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER Checklist for our chauffeurs and guests to encourage responsible travel on trips, to adopting 100% renewable energy and committing to a 10% reduction in carbon emissions by the end of the year, we’re striving to be a leader in the sustainable tourism industry,” said Managing Director Catherine Reilly.
The Sustainable Tourism Network is Ireland’s leading sustainable tourism training organization with a mission to transform the Irish tourism industry into a regenerative business sector that protects the environment, supports local communities, and makes places better for people to live and work. STN Global Certification is awarded following a comprehensive audit and review of over 80 criteria across environmental, social, and economic sustainability metrics.
Brendan Vacations, along with a global portfolio of 18 travel brands under The Travel Corporation (TTC) and its non-profit, the TreadRight Foundation®, is committed to eco-conscious travel through its sustainability strategy, known as “How We Tread Right.”
This certification underscores the commitment and progress Brendan Vacations has made as part of the larger TTC sustainability strategy, which is guided by the United Nations Global Goals for Sustainable Development and aims to address the impact of travel on the planet, people, and wildlife.
Part of this strategy involves launching new and modifying old itineraries to include responsible travel experiences known as MAKE TRAVEL MATTER Experiences. These experiences address issues related to climate change, sustainable food production, waste reduction, diversity and inclusion, cultural preservation, and wildlife protection.
Examples include a Deluxe Seaweed Experience in county Kerry where guests enjoy a cup of seaweed-infused tea before a guided walk to forage coastal plants and learn about the tides, and a tour of Ballykilcavan Farm & Brewery, where travellers will meet with the owner and learn about his sustainable journey and how he set up the brewery to help secure a sustainable financial future for his family farm.To learn more about Brendan Vacations’ Sustainability Efforts, click here.
