County Clare has achieved an outstanding milestone, becoming the first countywide certified sustainable tourism destination in Ireland. This significant achievement was recognized by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), which sets the global standards for sustainable travel. The certification process involved a comprehensive evaluation by EarthCheck, placing County Clare alongside elite global destinations known for their sustainability efforts.
A Collaborative Initiative
The Formation of the Green Team
The initiative to secure this certification was led by the County Clare GSTC Destination Green Team, established in 2023 by the Clare County Council’s Tourism Department and the Clare Tourism Advisory Forum. This diverse team included local authority employees, tourism agencies, businesses, conservation groups, community leaders, and members from various organizations focused on sustainable tourism. The formation of the Green Team was a pivotal move towards orchestrating the numerous efforts required to attain the certification. By drawing on the expertise and dedication of a wide array of stakeholders, the team was able to develop and implement strategies adhering to GSTC standards.
The Green Team’s multifaceted composition enabled a holistic approach to sustainability. This involved cross-departmental collaboration within the county council and extensive coordination with external bodies. Leveraging the expertise of members from the UN Tourism International Network of Sustainable Tourism Observatories (INSTO) and Atlantic Technical University (ATU) Sligo, the team designed robust measures to assess and improve sustainable practices within the county. Such an integrated effort was instrumental in ensuring a balanced development of tourism that honors environmental, economic, and social dimensions.
Support from Local Authorities and Partners
Prominent local figures, including Councillor Alan O’Callaghan, lauded the county’s collective efforts. The collaboration between Clare County Council and its partners, which included numerous tourism networks and state agencies, was highlighted as a pivotal element in achieving this certification. The efforts and support of various partners, such as the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), Office of Public Works (OPW), Geological Survey Ireland (GSI), National Monuments Service, Failte Ireland, Shannon Airport Group, the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA), and Shannon Region Sports and Conference Bureau, were crucial in making this initiative a success.
The collaboration ensured that diverse interests were harmonized and that sustainable tourism practices were integrated into every aspect of tourism in the county. A unified approach led to the development of common goals and shared responsibilities, fostering a culture of sustainability that permeated throughout the region. The collective effort from these partners not only helped achieve certification but also set a precedent for future sustainability initiatives, highlighting the importance of partnerships in driving regional sustainability efforts.
Commitment to Sustainable Practices
The Role of Clare County Council
Dr. Carmel Kirby, the interim CEO of Clare County Council, underscored the council’s dedication to sustainable tourism. The certification is part of a broader strategy to position County Clare as a leading example in Ireland, emphasizing transparency and collaboration in tourism planning. Clare County Council’s proactive stance demonstrated its unwavering commitment to integrate sustainability into all facets of tourism management. This involved not only participating in certification processes but also actively developing policies and initiatives that align with sustainable tourism principles.
The council’s strategic approach ensured that sustainability was embedded into the planning, development, and management of tourism activities. By adopting transparent practices and fostering collaboration among various stakeholders, the county could streamline its efforts towards achieving and maintaining high sustainability standards. This meticulous and inclusive planning framework significantly contributed to Clare’s recognition as a sustainable destination, setting a benchmark for other counties to follow.
Continuous Improvement and Monitoring
A key aspect of this commitment involved partnerships with academic institutions like Atlantic Technical University (ATU) Sligo to develop systems for measuring and monitoring sustainable tourism growth. This ongoing effort ensures that sustainability remains at the forefront of tourism management. The collaboration with ATU Sligo played a critical role in creating robust mechanisms to evaluate and track progress towards sustainable goals.
These systems enable continuous monitoring and data collection, providing valuable insights for ongoing improvements. Additionally, integrating academic expertise helps devise innovative solutions to address emerging challenges in sustainable tourism. The council’s dedication to continual assessment and refinement of practices ensures that County Clare remains aligned with the latest sustainability standards. This dynamic approach to managing tourism ensures that the county is well-equipped to adapt to new developments and sustain its standing as a leader in sustainable tourism.
Community and Sector-Wide Engagement
Collaboration with the Tourism Sector
Siobhan McNulty, Director of Tourism Development, emphasized the importance of engaging the broader tourism sector in Clare. Building on the county’s Sustainable Destination status requires continuous collaboration with local communities, state agencies, and all departments within the Clare County Council. Engaging the entire tourism sector fosters a comprehensive and inclusive approach to sustainability. By involving all stakeholders, from local businesses to conservation groups, the county could effectively integrate sustainable practices into every level of tourism operations.
Such wide-reaching collaboration ensures that sustainability efforts are well-coordinated and that the entire community benefits from sustainable tourism. This inclusivity also encourages local ownership and participation, which is crucial for the success and longevity of sustainability initiatives. By working together, various entities within the tourism sector can pool resources, share knowledge, and drive collective action towards maintaining this prestigious certification and promoting sustainable tourism practices in the long term.
The Importance of Continuous Improvement
Support and continuous improvement in tourism management practices are critical to maintaining the achievements and ensuring the preservation of County Clare’s assets. The collective effort of all stakeholders is essential in this ongoing journey. Continuous improvement involves regularly reviewing and updating practices to align with new insights, technology advancements, and changes in tourism trends.
By committing to ongoing education and adaptation, the county can ensure that it not only meets but exceeds sustainability benchmarks. This forward-thinking approach is vital for maintaining the certification and for setting an example for other regions. It showcases a dedication to innovation and resilience, ensuring that County Clare can navigate future challenges and capitalize on new opportunities within the tourism sector. Such proactive and adaptive management is key to sustaining the environmental, social, and economic benefits of sustainable tourism.
A Benchmark for Other Regions
Achievements in the Face of Challenges
Seán Lally, Chair of the Clare Tourism Advisory Forum, acknowledged this certification as a major accomplishment, especially given the current challenges in the tourism sector. He stressed the importance of setting a standard for others to follow, with a focus on future-proofing the tourism offer. Achieving such a certification amidst the dynamic and often challenging landscape of the tourism industry is a testament to the resilience and forward-thinking strategy of the county.
Lally’s emphasis on future-proofing illustrates the necessity of developing tourism offers that can withstand and adapt to evolving conditions, such as shifting consumer preferences and environmental changes. By leading by example, County Clare not only elevates its own status but also provides a roadmap for other regions aiming to achieve similar sustainability goals. This demonstration of overcoming obstacles and setting high standards is instrumental in encouraging widespread adoption of sustainable tourism practices.
Alignment with Long-Term Strategies
Deirdre O’Shea, Head of Tourism with Clare County Council, noted that the certification aligns with County Clare’s Tourism Strategy 2030. The strategy aims to ensure fair distribution of tourism benefits, year-round employment, enhanced visitor experiences, and a redefined approach to managing tourism. Aligning the certification with a long-term strategy ensures that sustainability is embedded into the core vision and operations of County Clare’s tourism sector.
This forward-looking strategy focuses on systemic changes that promote sustainability not just as a goal, but as a fundamental value driving the county’s tourism endeavors. By addressing economic, social, and environmental dimensions simultaneously, the strategy promises holistic and balanced growth. The emphasis on fair benefit distribution ensures that local communities reap substantial rewards from tourism activities, fostering greater community support for sustainable practices. Ultimately, this alignment with long-term strategies underscores the county’s dedication to building a resilient, inclusive, and innovative tourism industry.
Longstanding Efforts and Local Impact
North Clare’s Ongoing Journey
Carol Gleeson, Manager of the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark, highlighted the region’s longstanding efforts toward sustainability. The initiatives in North Clare have been integral to Clare’s international recognition. North Clare’s dedication to sustainability has been evident in the myriad of projects and practices implemented over the years. These efforts have not only preserved the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region but have also fostered a strong sense of community involvement and pride.
The ongoing journey in North Clare showcases a commitment to balancing tourism development with environmental stewardship. By emphasizing sustainable practices, the region has managed to create a model that respects and protects its unique geological and ecological assets. These efforts have contributed significantly to the overall sustainability narrative of County Clare, demonstrating that long-term commitment to sustainable practices yields substantial rewards in both recognition and preservation.
The Burren Ecotourism Network
County Clare has reached a remarkable milestone by becoming Ireland’s first countywide certified sustainable tourism destination. This significant accomplishment was acknowledged by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), an organization that establishes worldwide standards for sustainable travel and tourism. The certification process was extensive and thorough, conducted by EarthCheck, an organization known for its rigorous evaluation of sustainability practices. Achieving this certification places County Clare among an exclusive group of global destinations recognized for their dedicated efforts towards sustainability. As a pioneering example in sustainable tourism, County Clare sets a high benchmark for other destinations. This accomplishment not only boosts the county’s reputation but also strengthens its commitment to preserving the environment and promoting eco-friendly travel. By meeting GSTC’s strict criteria, County Clare not only ensures that its natural landscapes are preserved for future generations but also enhances its appeal to conscious travelers around the world.
