Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark Excels In Business Sustainability Training

Several businesses in the Cuilcagh Lakeland UNESCO Global Geopark have completed a unique climate action training programme, improving their sustainability practices for business and the local environment.

Organised by Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark as part of its commitment to supporting businesses across the Geopark to adapt to and mitigate the challenges presented by climate change, the Business Sustainability Training Programme – a first of its kind on the island of Ireland – provides a framework for businesses to come together to build a sustainable tourism offering.

The programme empowers enterprises to achieve cost savings through reductions in waste, water, and energy consumption. By becoming members of the Geopark Business Sustainability Network, participants demonstrate a genuine commitment to sustainable business practices, distinguishing themselves as exemplary leaders in their field.

Now in its third year, the programme was facilitated by The Tourism Space. Organisations underwent a practical and comprehensive 14-week course covering topics such as energy and water conservation, waste management, Leave No Trace principles, biodiversity, accessibility and inclusion and collaborative marketing. Participants also embarked on a learning journey to the Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark in County Clare, providing them with further inspiration and reinforcement for ongoing learning and development.

Speaking at the Certificate Ceremony of the 2024 Business Sustainability Training Programme, Chair of the Geopark Committee, Councillor Anthony Feely, said: "I am delighted to stand here with partners from Fáilte Ireland and Tourism Northern Ireland to award these certificates of completion to each of the businesses. Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark, through the cross-border partnership of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council and Cavan County Council is committed to supporting businesses and communities across the Geopark through programmes such as this and demonstrating a best practice approach to sustainable development. The funding provided by both Fáilte Ireland and Tourism Northern Ireland, along with both Councils, is invaluable in supporting these businesses in their commitment to continuous learning and collaborative working."


The 2024 programme participants showcase the exceptional quality and diversity of businesses within the Geopark, such as Belmore Court & Motel, Cuilcagh Café, Dowra Courthouse, Drummany Spirit, Drumrush B&B, Fermanagh Lakeland Tourism, Lough Erne Resort, National Trust Fermanagh, Trinity Island Yoga Retreat and Trivia House Accommodation.

Gráinne Cornally, Manager of Irelands Hidden Heartlands at Fáilte Ireland, said: "Fáilte Ireland is delighted to support this programme which will help businesses to reduce their environmental impact through sustainable methods across areas such as waste, water and energy reduction. This world class training is in line with Failte Ireland’s strategic objectives, and central to Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands Regional Tourism Strategy and the draft DEDP of Upper Shannon, Shannon Erne and Border Region. We wish the businesses well as they work through their sustainability journey and look forward to the continued developments of Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark as a leading sustainable tourism destination."

Upon completing the programme successfully, businesses will have the opportunity to join the Business Sustainability Network, which includes participants from both the 2020 and 2022 cohorts. Among the participating businesses are Arch House B&B, Blaney Caravan Park, Blue Green Yonder, Corralea Activity Centre, Dulrush Lodge, Erne Water Taxi, Marble Arch Caves, Rushin House Caravan Park and Tullymill Restaurant & Cottages in County Fermanagh. Additionally, participants include Carafin Lodge, Cavan Adventure Centre, Drummully Boxty, Hawthorn Lodge, Into the Wild, Jampa Ling, Noeleen Shannon Yoga, The Anglers Rest, Slieve Russell Hotel, The Keepers Arms and the XL Blacklion & Route 16 Café in Co Cavan.

Eimear Callaghan, Head of Experience & Industry Development with Tourism Northern Ireland, added: "This programme enables businesses to adopt collective sustainable action and prepares them to be ready to take the next step to accreditation. As a destination, Fermanagh Lakelands and the Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark are making huge strides at leading the way in this area and we are delighted to support the programme and the tourism businesses with this climate action initiative."

The programme is funded by Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark with support from Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Cavan County Council, Fáilte Ireland and Tourism Northern Ireland.