VisitAberdeenshire has published its first, annual Sustainable Tourism Report that highlights initiatives that have been led by, and supported by the organisation over the past year to help secure a sustainable future for North-east tourism.
Key to VisitAberdeenshire’s sustainability efforts is the Sustainable Tourism Toolkit, which supports businesses to embed sustainability into everyday practice. Featuring 16 key topics, practical checklists, case studies, and data-led insights, the toolkit has already empowered tourism operators across the region to make measurable progress on their sustainability goals. This support has extended to one-to-one consultations, workshops and a commitment to evolving the toolkit as the industry’s needs grow.
VisitAberdeenshire continues to champion environmental good practice in its own operations, and actively supports the endeavours of its landlord, P&J Live whose own Green Pledge further underlines the sustainable nature of the venue.
Within the wider tourism community, VisitAberdeenshire is supporting a sustainable tourism workforce of the future by working closely with Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) and Peterhead Academy, and supporting an annual foundation apprenticeship placement with North East Scotland College.
Meanwhile, the "Welcome to Aberdeenshire" volunteer scheme continues to enrich the visitor experience by connecting cruise tourists with local ambassadors. This grassroots initiative channels civic pride and continues to deliver rewarding opportunities within the community.
The Sustainable Tourism Report also highlights VisitAberdeenshire’s alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through a dedicated internal group, the organisation monitors its contributions across areas such as climate action, quality education, and sustainable communities.
Chris Foy, CEO, VisitAberdeenshire, said: “Tourism has enormous potential to drive positive economic and social change. Managed well, it can and should enrich the lives of our visitors, the livelihoods of our communities and the life of our natural environment.”
“Sustainability goes beyond environmental considerations to include initiatives that can deliver an inclusive welcome, taking into account the changing requirements of an ageing population and for people with disabilities. A sustainable sector will also need a talented future workforce and offer rewarding community-driven tourism opportunities for local people who wish to proudly champion their home.”
To access the Sustainable Tourism Report, click here.