County Clare has become the first countywide certified sustainable tourism destination in Ireland, securing official recognition from the Global Sustainable Tourism Council.
The Clare County GSTC Destination Green Team was founded in 2023, focusing on sustainable tourism practices with collaboration among local authorities and various stakeholders.
The initiative has aligned Clare with leading destinations globally, including The Azores, Nuuk, and Rottnest Island, promoting eco-friendly travel.
Officials expressed that this certification aims to bolster local businesses, enhance visitor experiences, and ensure benefits are distributed fairly.
The achievement is seen as a foundational step towards Clare’s long-term vision to establish itself as a world-renowned sustainable destination by 2030.
Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Councillor Alan O’Callaghan shared “The destination certification process is a way for all stakeholders to focus on developing County Clare as a place that supports local communities and businesses.”
CEO of Clare County Council, Carmel Kirby shared “Clare’s certification will enhance transparency, foster greater collaboration in tourism planning, and reaffirm our commitment to sustainability.”
Siobhan McNulty Director of Tourism Development with Clare County Council shared “Our priority now is to collaborate with the broader Clare tourism sector, local communities, State agencies…to strengthen and build on our Sustainable Destination status.”
Seán Lally chair of Clare tourism shared “Securing this accreditation is a major achievement for County Clare and for Ireland, especially at a time when the tourism sector is navigating significant challenge.”
Deirdre O’Shea, Head of Tourism, Clare County Council shared “For Clare County Council, this achievement is about delivering on the promise set out in the County Clare Tourism Strategy 2030.”
