The primary purpose of AONB designation is to conserve and enhance the natural beauty of these nationally important landscapes. The Kent Downs offers some of southern England’s most beautiful countryside but even tourism can impact on its environment and local communities.

Implementing measures to reduce the negative impacts of tourism, whilst enhancing the positive impacts, is a focus of our sustainable tourism development work. Our aim is to protect the very resources upon which the visitor experience depends.

Green Accreditation for Tourism Businesses

The Green Tourism Business Scheme (GTBS) is an accreditation scheme for tourism and tourism related businesses relating to environmental and social good practice.

A pilot scheme to launch the GTBS in Kent was first implemented by the Kent Downs AONB Unit, with the support of Tourism South East (TSE). Thirteen businesses successfully gained accreditation and the pilot was so successful that the scheme was subsequently rolled out throughout Kent.

To gain GTBS accreditation, businesses are assessed once every two years by registered environmental auditors. Businesses are graded against over 150 measures of best practice, ranging from energy conservation, water use, waste minimisation and nature conservation to purchasing, marketing, education, interpretation and community support, resulting in the following awards:

BRONZE Good basic environmental practice
SILVER Very good environmental practice
GOLD Excellence in environmental practice

Look for the logo when planning your trip

By utilising green graded accommodation, pubs and attractions, you know you are making a difference by choosing businesses that are committed to you, the environment and their wider communities.

Note to Tourism Businesses

If you run a tourism business and are interested in applying for green grading, the GTBS on 01738 632162 or email gtbs@green-business.co.uk

For an up to date list of GTBS members in Kent, go to the GTBS website