THE MOURNE LODGE
GREEN TOURISM ACTION PLAN
At the Mourne Lodge we are committed to green tourism. Numerous procedures have been
implemented to ensure environmentally friendly business practice. We continuously strive
to maintain and improve the following procedures. Highlighted in bold are key issues to
focus on over the next two years as part of our continuous improvement to this existing
environmental action plan.
OFFICE
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Use eco-friendly cleaning products (homemade weed killer available)
Do not put plastic liners in bin. Bins are washed daily
Fill kettle only to necessary level
Paperless office. Print documents only when necessary, use recycled paper
Reminder signs to turn off lights, heater, tap, etc.
Recycle all paper and plastic bottles. Encourage guests to recycle.
Customers encouraged to bring own water bottles. Encourage to refill and use nonplastic alternatives. Bottles available for guests to refill
Employees advised to cycle, take the bus, or car share to work
Guests encouraged to use public transport during their stay
Marketing materials and website promote public transport routes to the Centre
Bus timetables available and bus stops outside entrance to the Mourne Lodge.
Computer set to standby after 10 minutes of being inactive
Computer and printers turned off at the end of the working day
Website includes environment page, links to environment-related sites,
Environmental Policy and Action Plan downloads, link to Green Tourism accredited
hotels. Keep this updated as well as on social media
Environmental education promoted by developing a walking trail in the
surrounding area for guests. Information about environmental visitor sites and
nature trails is available for guests at the Mourne Lodge
To encourage a paperless office, e-newsletters are sent, replacing paper based
marketing. E-newsletters alert readers to environmental issues. Examples include
nature trails, biking and hiking events to encourage eco-friendly activities.
Continual monitoring and updating of the green management file
Rechargeable batteries used. Container for used batteries available in reception for
guests.
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LED light bulbs
Educational partners of the ‘Leave No Trace’ organisation as displayed for guests
‘Eco-Active’ Business scheme Level 3 Leader award
Keep record of reptile/amphibian sightings and have identification charts –
Promote recording of sightings for Environment Dept.
Energy use is very low and stringently controlled
Heating in the building, turned on only when necessary
Commitment to encourage as many guests as possible to experience outdoor
activities. This includes those with disabilities. Special rates given to youth groups
and charities
Educate new staff on our environmental policy
Ensure any new office equipment is as energy efficient/eco-friendly as possible
LAUNDRY AND KITCHEN FACILITIES
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Laundry washed at low temperature (30 degrees Celsius) for short period of time
(15 minutes)
Clothes line used to dry laundry, replacing the tumble dryer
Boiler room available for drying laundry, in the case of poor weather conditions
Guests are encouraged to use clothes line to dry laundry
Concentrated laundry detergent used for cleaning clothes
Restaurant meals cooked using local produce
Excess food in kitchen used to create compost for plants
Kettle filled to necessary level and switched off when not being used
Excess plastic bags stored in utility area
All electrical appliances switched off when not in use
ONSITE
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Mixed waste and recycling bins are located throughout the centre
Bins are labelled with information on what can be recycled
Each bedroom has a recycle bin and general waste bin
Large black and blue bins used for waste in the centre. These are collected
and emptied regularly by the local council
Potted plants present throughout communal and reception areas
Plants grown from local seed
Outside picnic benches available for guests
Bikes available for guests to rent for a small fee
Last amended, May 2015