World first green scheme for tourism
27 May 2008
A new environmental rating system, believed to be a world first for tourism businesses, has just been launched in New Zealand.
Qualmark Green, an extension of New Zealand’s Qualmark quality assurance scheme, will rate environmental performance and tourism quality assurance. The system is designed to help the country deliver on its 100% Pure New Zealand promise.
Details of the new criteria were announced by New Zealand Tourism Minister Damien O’Connor at the Tourism Rendezvous New Zealand (TRENZ) conference in Rotorua.
Rating standards
From August 1, this year, all Qualmark licence holders will have to meet minimum environmental standards as part of their quality accreditation assessments. In addition, environmental and social initiatives underway in a tourism business will now be recognised in their overall score.
All tourism operators and businesses will be able to apply for higher Enviro-Gold, Enviro-Silver and Enviro-Bronze ratings depending on their environmental performance.
Mr O’Connor says the new integrated system is the most significant for New Zealand’s tourism industry to date in the area of environmental sustainability.
The Minister also announced new government funding of NZ$840,000 for the Sustainable Tourism Advisers in Regions (STAR) project to help tourism businesses meet the new Qualmark Green standards. Up to eight regional organisations will receive $88,000 over three years to employ an advisor who will work with tourism operators to reduce their business’ impact on the environment.
Go for Gold
Tourism New Zealand chief executive George Hickton said it was important for every tourism operator to get Qualmarked and aspire to getting the Enviro-Gold standard. "It will be good for the environment and local communities, good for their business and good for the industry," he said.
"The natural environment is the main reason people come to New Zealand and we need to protect it and deliver on the 100% Pure New Zealand promise we make to our overseas visitors," said Hickton.
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