Travel Corp secure Gold Keep Guernsey Green Award

Monday 15 April 2019

Identifying small improvements and changes in habit over time has seen Travel Corporation become more environmentally-friendly and only the second business to receive the Gold Keep Guernsey Green Award.

The Gold, Silver and Bronze awards were introduced by the States last year to recognise organisations that help Guernsey maintain a healthy, clean environment through conserving energy and reducing waste.

An independent assessment of the Travel Corporation's office found that the amount of general waste has been reduced by 18%, single use plastic has been replaced with other recyclable materials and LED lighting has been installed to reduce energy consumption. Many small scale changes, such as changing from a coffee machine which uses pods to one which uses beans, have also been introduced.

All of these small changes add up to make a workplace more environmentally-friendly, according to Independent Assessor Keith Tapscott. 

“Over a period of time, the cumulative effect of relatively simple changes in habits, practices, and behaviours, can lead to significant benefits to the environment," he said. "The, sometimes, small initiatives this office has undertaken at local level over the years is exceptional, and serves as an example to us all as to what can be achieved by strong leadership and a commitment from staff.  At international level, this Group has a comprehensive and impressive social and environmental policy.”

Pictured: The Travel Corporation staff with Environment & infrastructure Vice-President Mark Dorey, centre. 

Michael Paige from The Travel Corporation said the business has a strong environmental ethos.

“We are immensely proud of what we have achieved," he said. "Whilst the CSR team and senior management are able to put in place various initiatives, it is the buy in and commitment of the staff that has made these initiatives so successful. Our approach has always been to identify small incremental improvements and to encourage changes in habit. Over time this has resulted in significant and sustainable improvements.” 

Each organisation that applies for the award is subject to an assessment which monitors the current actions and future commitments taken by the company to reduce waste, increase recycling and improve energy conservation. An assessor is assigned to each organisation and provides guidance and support throughout the process.

The award is open to any size and type of organisation in Guernsey and is valid for three years after which it can be revalidated on a triennial basis. Further information is available on gov.gg/kgga.