A pioneering initiative, comprising 32 local tourism businesses from across Fermanagh and Cavan is leading the way in the emerging field of regenerative tourism which has led to tourism destinations from across the island of Ireland visiting the area to find out more and replicating a sustainability training programme in their own regions.
Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark has been facilitating a comprehensive 14-week training programme for local tourism businesses ranging from accommodation and activity providers, producers, retailers, and visitor attractions which focuses on areas such as energy efficiency, water and waste consumption, biodiversity, access and inclusion, and the vital principles of Leave No Trace.
Since completing the training, the 32 member businesses have formed the Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark Regenerative Tourism Business Network, and have implemented a variety of initiatives to improve sustainability across their own businesses including the introduction of a Sustainability Action Plan, rain water harvesting, reduced water consumption, improved recycling systems, introduction of biodiversity measures and installation of solar panels.
The success of the programme, which has been running since 2020, has seen the work of the Network inspiring other organisations to participate in sustainability training with an increasing number of representatives from tourism destinations visiting Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark to experience first-hand the commitment to sustainability and replicating a sustainability training programme in their own regions.
With a focus on fostering best practice and environmental stewardship, the network offers a unique opportunity for tourists, operators, and others in the travel industry to learn about sustainable tourism practices that can be implemented globally.
In 2024, in recognition of the regenerative nature of the work of the membership, the businesses made a formal commitment to regenerative tourism practices developing a Code of Practice for the network which commits members to actively contribute to five key principles of Regenerative and collaborative partnership, supporting a thriving community, a cherished landscape and protected environment, living heritage and knowledge sharing and learning.
Barry Flanagan, Chair of Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark Regenerative Tourism Business Network and Owner of Erne Water Taxissaid:“Regenerative Tourism goes beyond sustainable practices and invites the industry to actively restore, replenish and renew the environment and the local community in which we operate in. Each member in our network has a deep, personal connection to this incredible landscape and together we have the collective goal of ensuring that Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark remains unspoilt, not only for the visitors who come to experience its natural beauty but for those of us who live here.
“We recognise that tourism can be a mechanism for positive change in revitalising landscapes and communities and we are committed to driving that positive change.
“As the world increasingly shifts towards more responsible tourism, Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark Regenerative Tourism Business Network is proving that sustainability is not only a necessity but a key driver for the future of tourism. The network’s vision is clear: by practising and promoting regenerative tourism, we aim to leave the landscape not only undisturbed but enriched, ensuring that this precious ecosystem remains vibrant for years to come.”
Tony Walker, General Manager Slieve Russell Hotel added: “Being a member of the Cuilcagh Lakelands Regenerative Tourism Business Network has brought terrific benefits to all of us, and our respective businesses, with such a diverse group bringing collective thinking to benefit the wider destination.”
