There are a host of organisations offering help. Here are some of the major ones:
Scotland’s national tourism organisation has perhaps one of the world’s most robust, holistic strategies toward decarbonisation and responsible travel. They recognise that Scotland’s environment, society and culture are what sets us apart as a destination – they’re what makes a visit here (and likewise to Edinburgh) so special.
It is a key partner in delivering Scotland Outlook 2030 and the STERG National Action Plan which commits to many destination management efforts that place the local quality of life, the quality of experiences, and natural environment at the centre of tourism’s success. So not surprisingly, VisitScotland is doing a lot in driving Responsible Tourism:
- VisitScotland was the first NTO to sign up to the Tourism Declares pledge and is leading from the front with their Responsible Tourism Plan.
- The Responsible Tourism section of their trade website is packed with information and advice, and they have interesting sections on Climate Change and Destination NetZero.
- The VisitScotland Sustainability Policy sets the standards for the organisation. Details and a useful list of their internal and industry actions are outlined in their Responsible Tourism Plan.
- Create and manage your own Climate Action Plan with this practical guide from VisitScotland.
- Sustainable Tourism fact sheets are detailed and practical on 11 subjects such as Energy Monitoring, Saving Water/Saving Money, Reducing/Recycling.
- The VisitScotland Climate Action Accelerator Programme – a free, six-week online initiative designed to help tourism and events businesses in Scotland reduce carbon emissions, lower operating costs, and build climate resilience.
Zero Waste Scotland
Free sustainability advice for business.
They have two main themes for business support: Resource efficiency and Circular economy, funded by the Scottish Government. They also manage the SME Loan Scheme
- Energy Efficiency: Their Energy Efficiency Business Support Service offers businesses free support to reduce energy costs by an average of 24%. They can provide specialist and independent advice, for free. Their package of support includes training, funding, tailored advice and specific tools, delivered through a variety of channels: online, on-site or over the phone. Practical online tools such as the Savings Finder can help business identify ways to reduce costs, whilst one-to-one telephone support or a site visit from an Energy Efficiency Advisor can really help make the most out of resources. Free online training such as Green Champions enables the business to learn at their own pace from the comfort of their desk.
The Resource Efficiency Pledge is a nationwide initiative which recognises, supports and promotes businesses that are committed to sustainable growth, is another great way to access their support and gain official recognition for putting resource efficiency measures into practice.
The website offers a wealth of tools, resources and case studies about supported organisations.
- SME Loan scheme: Scottish Government funding to help you pay for your energy efficiency projects. An SME loan can be used to finance the installation of energy efficient systems, equipment or building fabric.
- Cashback grant – If you are an SME and installing eligible equipment, you could receive a cashback grant of up to £20,000 for your business.
Read how this worked for the Ardlui Hotel. After energy efficiency advice from ZWS and the benefit of a Scottish Government interest-free SME Loan (payback period of just over four years) it was a no-brainer for the two brothers who implemented all the suggested changes, reducing carbon emissions by 39%.
Energy Savings Trust (EST)
EST supports businesses of all sizes, enabling them to play their part in building a sustainable, energy efficient future. They provide insight, advice, training and consultancy services to businesses on low carbon transport, energy efficiency, and renewable energy generation.
Transport is a focus for EST and they operate the Low Emission Zone (LEZ) Support Fund. The LEZ for Edinburgh will be introduced in 2022 and EST is offering micro businesses and sole traders, with an operating site within 20km of the low emission zones, a £2,500 grant towards the safe disposal of non-compliant vehicles. This is available to businesses with nine or fewer full-time employees and sole traders who take a non-compliant vehicle to be scrapped at a Scottish authorised treatment facility.
Details here: Low Emission Zone Support Fund for businesses – Energy Saving Trust
A different example of how EST has worked in tourism transport – by supporting an electric taxi is detailed here
Edinburgh Chamber – Circular Edinburgh project, funded by Zero Waste Scotland
- Circular Economy Business Support Service – delivered through Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce
- Check out the Chamber’s Top tips for tourism and hospitality.