About

Summary

Following the DeBois review of the destination management structure across England and the current roll out of the Local Visitor Economy Partnerships, VisitEngland is in the process of developing its sustainability strategy. This strategy will support VisitEngland in its role to provide central thought leadership, expertise, support, and tools to drive improved sustainability across the sector.

To inform its sustainability strategy and find out how best to support the sustainable growth of the domestic visitor economy, VisitEngland commissioned Acorn Tourism to identify and understand the current sustainability certification schemes, support networks and resources used by the domestic tourism stakeholders across England.

The particular focus of the study is on English tourism accommodation, together with attraction chains and some tour and experience providers.

Based on our findings from this first stage of the project, we were commisioned to identify recommendations for VisitEngland on how they could support the sector with sustainability certification. 

Our Approach

In-depth primary and secondary research was conducted to understand what certifications, tools, recourses, and networks are being utilised by English tourism entities. This included one to one interview with both Destination Managers and Associations to provide an understanding of their members practices.

Through online and telephone consultations a certification comparison table has been put together to provide the client with greater understanding on their presence within England. Alongside helping to gauge information including support level, tools they provide, costs and other important criteria.

The second stage of the research included providing three in-depth case study consultations, where we spoke to National Tourism Boards who had developed their own sustainable certification recognition schemes.

Outcome

A presentation of the key findings and an in-depth report provided a detailed analysis and comparison of the certification schemes used in England, searchable lists of certifications, mapping of certified businesses across the country and tools/resources that are being used by local businesses.

The two stages of this reserach are being used to provid VisitEngland with recommendations to support the development of their regenerative toruism strategy and provide the sector with guidance on sustainability certifications.