A SUSTAINABLE WORLD
In order to be better informed and share learning on our Sustainability Journey we participated in the Cuilcagh Lakeland Geopark Sustainable Business Course, which equipped our team with innovative techniques and best practices for integrating sustainability into our daily operations. This course has been instrumental in enhancing our understanding of sustainable tourism and ensuring that our initiatives align with global standards.
One of the key highlights of our journey to-date has been the establishment of our Lough Erne Resort ‘Green Team’. This dedicated group of employees is passionate about driving our sustainability agenda forward, championing eco-friendly initiatives, and fostering a culture of environmental responsibility throughout the resort.
We are sharply focused on introducing and implementing best sustainable practices in every aspect of our day-to-day operations for the overall benefit of our planet, place and people.
Your support and participation in our sustainability journey is crucial too.
Our Sustainability Journey
A world apart from the everyday, Lough Erne Resort proudly takes sustainability seriously and understands the need for continued learning and evolution.
In recent years the resort has invested in a number of workstreams in a commitment to environmental stewardship and responsible operations.
Our journey began with in-depth audits to analyse current systems and processes, with a view to enhance sustainability standards across the resort.
With invaluable insights we are proud to have a Sustainability Strategy with clear, actionable goals.
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Water Management and Recycling
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Energy-Efficient LED Lighting
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Vegetarian and Vegan Menu Options
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Partnership with Local Producers
Meet Pauline, the leader of our Green Team at Lough Erne Resort. With a strong commitment to sustainability, Pauline oversees our environmental initiatives and strategies that have made a significant impact in reducing the resort's carbon footprint. Her passion for environmental stewardship drives Lough Erne Resort’s continuous efforts to create a greener future for all.
Pauline Carey
Sales Manager
Achieved Zero Waste to Landfill: Lough Erne Resort has successfully reached its target of zero waste to landfill, focusing on green procurement, CO2 reduction, and minimising waste through innovative practices and resource management.
Eliminating Single-Use Plastics and Enhancing Recycling: We prioritise eliminating single-use plastics, cutting food waste, and enhancing recycling and composting efforts, contributing to a more sustainable and eco-friendly event experience.
Water Management and Recycling: We capture and reuse rainwater for irrigation and implement comprehensive recycling programs to minimise waste, demonstrating our commitment to efficient resource management and environmental stewardship.
Energy Efficiency in Facilities: We conduct regular energy audits, and we are committed to installing motion sensors and programmable thermostats to optimise lighting and temperature control based on actual occupancy, thereby improving overall energy efficiency.
Energy-Efficient LED Lighting: The resort has transitioned to energy-efficient LED lighting, which lowers energy consumption and supports our commitment to reducing environmental impact.
Circular Economy Practices: We work with our Waste Management partner to recycle glass into bottles and convert food waste into renewable energy.
Biodiversity and Eco-Friendly Equipment: We have enhanced local biodiversity in recent years by planting 600 native trees and creating wildlife habitats. Furthermore, our fleet of 50 electric golf carts with lithium batteries are proof positive of our efforts to reduce carbon emissions and drive the transition to fully sustainable transportation on the course.
Digital Processes: Our shift to digital processes reduces paper use and energy consumption, supporting our commitment to sustainability and minimising our overall environmental impact.
Diverse Vegetarian and Vegan Menu Options: We offer a range of vegetarian and vegan menu options to reduce the environmental impact of meat production and encourage more sustainable dining choices.
Seasonal Menus with Local Produce: Our Culinary team crafts seasonal menus featuring local Irish produce, partnering with trusted local suppliers to ensure freshness, quality, as well as supporting local agriculture and reducing food miles.
Replacement of Single-Use Toiletry Bottles: We have replaced single-use toiletry bottles with large, eco-friendly dispensers of organic Voya Spa products which have significantly reduced plastic waste.
Partnership with Local Producers: We collaborate with local producers and makers to source ingredients for our food and drink offerings, spa products, and gifts.
Supporting small independent Tourism operators: We work with local tourism experts to provide unique activities and experiences, such as guided nature walks and eco-friendly tours, ensuring that our operations support local businesses and reduce our overall environmental footprint.
Circular Economy Initiatives: Our circular economy initiatives involve collaborating with Boatyard Distillery and Enniskinn to re-purpose waste botanicals into bespoke treatment and retail products, contributing to waste reduction and sustainable practices.
Encouraging Towel and Linen Reuse: We encourage guests to reuse towels and linens. We place our guest robes and slippers in net bags in the wardrobe to minimise unnecessary use, reducing the frequency of replacements and conserving resources.
Eco-led Outdoor Activities: In partnership with Blue Green Yonder, we provide guests with eco-friendly activities such as water biking, kayaking and fishing encouraging guests to immerse themselves in the great outdoors.
Office Equipment Management: We prioritise sustainability by choosing remanufactured office equipment and ensuring that it is properly managed at the end of its useful life, thus extending the equipment’s lifespan and reducing e-waste.
Sustainable Golf Shop and Gifts: Our retail outlets focus on stocking items that are locally made and crafted from reused or recycled materials where possible, minimising environmental impact and supporting the circular economy.
Supporting the Move to Sustainable Travel: We are a host venue for demonstration drives for Tesla electric cars to encourage guests to make the move to sustainable travel:
Membership of Cuilcagh Sustainable Business Network: Our ongoing active participation in the Cuilcagh Lakeland Geopark Business Sustainability programme highlights our commitment to sustainability and supports our efforts to implement best practices in environmental stewardship.
We employ over 200 local people on a full-time and part-time basis, providing essential employment opportunities in our rural county, thus supporting local economic development: Employing over 200 local people to support local economic development.
We support local charities annually, such as Action Mental Health and Cash for Kids NI, reflecting our commitment to social responsibility and community well-being: Supporting local charities to reflect commitment to social responsibility and community well-being.
Reduce Waste with Smart Choices: opt for reusable items whenever possible, and if single-use items are necessary, request clearly marked compostable or recyclable options. Encourage pre-orders to reduce food waste and arrange for post-event food donation.
Sustainable Catering: Work with our team to develop a menu that accommodates dietary restrictions and prioritises plant-based proteins. Offer plant-based food as the default option, and serve infused water, whole grains, and nutritious snacks.
Digital Materials: Minimise paper usage by providing meeting materials electronically. If paper is necessary, choose tree-free or recycled/FSC-certified paper.
Promote Movement: Schedule breaks for standing, walking, or light stretching during meetings. We can provide guided walks, resort maps, and clear information on guest facilities to encourage physical activity.
Transportation Efficiency: Encourage attendees to carpool or use public transport. Highlight our EV charging points and local transportation links in pre-event communications.
Accessibility for All: Ensure the event is accessible by providing information on location, wheelchair access, assistive devices, and food options for guests with allergies or sensitivities. Consider seating and technological accommodations.
Sustainable Office Supplies: Use reusable or biodegradable decorations and choose sustainable centrepieces such as potted plants. When giveaways are necessary, select eco-friendly items such as reusable water bottles or tote bags.
Water and Energy Conservation: Serve pitchers of tap or filtered water instead of bottled water and use energy-efficient appliances and lighting in meeting rooms.
CSR Activities: Integrate Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities into your event by offering sustainable volunteer opportunities and community workshops for delegates.
Increased Delegate Engagement: Create promotional content showcasing your sustainability efforts, such as a short reel, to encourage higher delegate participation.
PROUD MEMBER OF
CUILCAGH LAKELANDS GEOPARK
Together We're Better
Lough Erne Resort is a proud member of Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark 'Business Sustainability Network'. This network features over 30 local businesses, all of which share the common goal of being more sustainable. Each business within the proud network has undertaken sustainability training and committed themselves to the continued implementation of practices which improve energy efficiency and help promote sustainable tourism and marketing within the Geopark.
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