Newquay Zoo Wins Gold Award

Newquay Zoo has become the first Visitor Attraction in Cornwall to be accredited GOLD by the Green Tourism Business Scheme (GTBS).

The aim of the scheme is to encourage businesses to reduce their environmental impact by improving the management of any resources they use such as energy or water, thereby increasing their market potential in a market place with an ever growing environmental conscience. The scheme also encourages visitors to stay local, using local transport, local restaurants, local pubs and other facilities and be appreciative but sensitive when visiting local sites and amenities.

Environmental Officer Ruth Grant Comments ""This is so fantastic and a credit to all the staff that work so hard in each department to make this possible. This is a prime example of how taking small steps can go so far, we are a charity organisation with very little in the budget to invest in expensive renewable technology, it's about commitment not necessarily resources. This accreditation is achievable for tourism organisations across the board and we hope that we have inspired others to do the same."

Over the last few years the zoo has introduced a wealth of measures throughout all departments and more recently introduced a cardboard baler which crushes and helps to reduce transport miles. The catering department staff have researched more locally sourced food and items such as biodegradable straws all of which form part of their new Catering policy, and Ruth Grant has instigated a Green Map community project with other local businesses.