Green Tourism Business Scheme

The Green Tourism Business Scheme, has been running since 1997 and with over 1400 members across the whole of the UK, it is the largest and most established scheme of its type in the World. In Scotland the GTBS was developed in partnership with VisitScotland and it is recognized by UK national and regional government as a crucial part of its drive towards sustainability. Our aim is to build on this strong position and ensure that the UK remains at the forefront of sustainable tourism in the future.

The Green Tourism Business Scheme is the national sustainable tourism certification scheme for the UK. Originally developed in partnership with Visit Scotland, it is now the only certification scheme validated by Visit Britain, through the International Centre for Responsible Tourism (ICRT).

Businesses opting to join Green Tourism are assessed by a qualified grading advisor against a rigorous set of criteria, covering a range of areas, like energy and water efficiency, waste management, biodiversity and more. Those businesses that meet the required standard, receive a Bronze, Silver, or Gold award based on their level of achievement.