Message to visitors
Keep an eye out for businesses that look after the local environment and support local communities.

Many businesses use local foods and products, provide information on local walks and attractions and offer information on public transport options and many of these are supporters of the Future Footprints campaign. Business respond to consumer demands, so let them know you care!

There are a number of award schemes for business that adopt good environmental practices.
The Green Tourism Business Scheme (GTBS) awards businesses who have proven that they care for the local environment and community. There are three levels of the award (gold, silver and bronze) and all tourism businesses are eligible to enter.

The David Bellamy Conservation Award is given to holiday parks that demonstrate policies showing active concern for the environment. Assisted by local nature groups and holidaymakers themselves, the award looks at virtually every aspect of park management - from the protection of plant and animal habitats to the efficient use of energy and recycling.

Other local schemes include the Dartmoor Charter for Sustainable Tourism, where businesses commit to use resources better and to help protect the special qualities of Dartmoor. Look out for the green Dartmoor Charter logo.

Message to tourism businesses
With visitors showing an increased interest in the impact of their holiday on the local enviornment and community, it makes sense to show your green credentials. Highlight any local food or products you provide, give visitors information on local walks, sites or events and give them the option to leave the car behind for a day by promoting trips by bus, train, ferry, foot or cycle.

For more information:
www.visitsouthwest.co.uk/feelgood is an online guide to GTBS businesses, and includes a search facility, an explanation of the award and further ideas on how visitors can ‘love the South West’. As part of their membership, GTBS participants receive a free entry on the ‘Feel Good’ webpage.

For details of the David Bellamy Award Scheme visit www.ukparks.com or email:
davidshreeve@conservationfoundation.co.uk