Tourism Businesses in Donegal get sustainability training

26 businesses from the Irish town took part in the project activities

26 businesses from the tourism sector of Donegal have received training on sustainability, together with other European colleagues. Last week representatives based in the Irish town have joined a new initiative aimed at fostering sustainability in their work. Organised by the Tourism Unit with Donegal County Council, the week-long event was part of the WAOH! Route (Wildsea Atlantic Ocean Heritage Route) project, which has received funding by the European Union.

One of the project activities consisted of an in-classroom training day at the Co-Lab in Letterkenny during which the accent was placed on eco-friendly marine and coastal tourism. Toolkits including manuals for sustainable guiding, kayak, dive and boat trips, as wall as promotional materials were distributed to the participants which provided information on the local species and habitats, and that could be made available to tourists on boats, in sailing clubs, kayak centres and other places. Travelecoology, as a Lead partner, assisted by Submon and the World Cetacean Alliance delivered the training.

Another project activity ws a three-day practical trip training across the Irish city which showcased the history of Lough Swilly and view Fort Dunree and Fanad Lighthouse and disclosed various techniques of guiding. Visiting bird colonies and learning about responsible treatment of wildlife were also key moments of the programme.

According to Joy Harron, Marine Tourism Officer with Donegal County Council, the city is working for the development of tourism along the Wild Atlantic Way while considering the importance of environmental protection. She evaluates the participation in the project as a way to become proactive when it comes to coastal and marine tourism in particular. Moreover, the training received was aligned to the Pledge to Sustainability signed by the local authority last year and its commitment to sustainable tourism. It should at the same time encourage ocean literacy, knowledge exchange and sharing on eco-tourism and enhance the experience visitors’ experience.

Find more information by the County Council of Donegal.