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Sustainable Tourism Toolkit
What is the Sustainable tourism toolkit?
VisitAberdeenshire’s sustainable tourism toolkit gives tourism businesses across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire practical guidance to become more inclusive, resilient and sustainable. It supports businesses to welcome a wider range of visitors, adapt to changing needs and take clear steps towards a more sustainable future.
The toolkit aligns with VisitScotland’s Responsible Tourism objectives to:
- Support thriving communities
- Progress towards a low-carbon economy (net zero by 2045)
- Protect natural and cultural heritage
- Ensure tourism is inclusive
Make the most of the toolkit
- Dip into sections in your own time, as needed
- Use checklists to track your progress
- Start with quick wins, then build towards longer-term actions
- Learn from real business case studies
- Use the glossary and resource list for extra support
Inclusive tourism
Inclusive tourism means making your business welcoming and accessible to as many people as possible, regardless of ability, age, or background.
Done well, it improves customer experience, builds loyalty, and unlocks new markets.
You don’t need to be perfect to make a difference. Small changes to accessibility can open your doors to people who may have never considered you before.
Our downloadable guide includes quick wins you can start today. Be sure to highlight your accessible features on your VisitAberdeenshire business listing here.
Sustainability
Sustainable tourism practices focus on protecting and improving the places and destinations tourists visit, so they remain attractive and welcoming for future visitors while also benefiting the people who live there now.
Investing time to embed sustainability into your business can reduce operational costs, comply with environmental regulations, enhance your reputation and attract more customers.
Whether you’re unsure where to start, or you’re ready to create an action plan, this downloadable guide contains insights and guidance for each step on your journey.
Storytelling & promotion
Once you start to implement sustainable changes and see the impacts it is having on your business and customers, it’s time to share your success and tell your story. This will help you to engage with your community and reach new audiences to continue to grow your business.
You can communicate your amazing work at all stages of the visitor journey from information provision on your website and sharing initiatives and awards on social media, to highlighting local produce or community engagement onsite.
Telling your story online and in-person can also provide evidence for awards or accreditations and enhance your visibility with stakeholders and potential partners.
Get started with our downloadable guide or contact industry@visitabdn.com for more information on promoting your sustainable business.
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