At Glenavon House Hotel, our commitment to sustainability is as enduring as the lush landscapes that surround us.  We recognise the profound responsibility we bear towards our environment, our community and future generations.  Thus, our sustainability journey is not merely a trend but an integral part of our ethos.

As stewards of Glenavon House Hotel, we recognise that sustainability is a journey, not a destination.  We’re committed to continual improvement, embracing innovation and collaboration to chart a path towards a brighter, more sustainable future.  Together with our guests, employees and community, we’ll tread lightly on the earth, leaving a legacy of conservation, compassion, and connection.

Responsible Visitor Charter

Seven things you can do to help save the planet.

Here at Glenavon Hotel we are working hard to be as green and sustainable as possible, but we need your help.  We can all reduce our impact on the environment by making choices.  As a visitor you have a very important role to play in helping Cookstown conserve its natural assets and become a more sustainable destination.

Here are some ideas on how you can help while you are with us:

  1. Conserve Energy – reduce energy by switching off lights and closing windows if heating is on. The Energy Saving Trust provides information on what you can do while with us and at home. est.org.uk 
  1. Give the car a rest – Leave the car behind, if only for a day. Walk, cycle or use public transport. Our staff will happily provide you with advice. 
  1. Shop Local – Use local products, they give you a flavour of the real Cookstown and help support local communities. We are fortunate to have some fantastic producers of food, drink and arts and crafts.  Ask us about local markets or local and regional produce.
  1. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle – Try to avoid overly packaged goods and say no to that extra carrier bag. You can also support us in our efforts to recycle – please ask staff for more details.
  1. Be Water Wise – Water is a precious resource and should be used wisely. Turn off the tap when brushing your teeth and adhere to towel policies or other water saving initiatives.
  1. Respect nature – Help us to look after the landscape and wildlife by not littering, guarding against fire and using footpaths and cycle-ways responsibly. Ensure you follow the Countryside Code
  1. Green Tourism – This is the go-to standard for sustainability, look out for the symbol and please support those businesses that are working to reduce their carbon footprint. The award is also open to tour operators, visitor attractions, activity providers, accommodation providers, restaurants, and other businesses. Green Tourism 

And most importantly have a great time when you are here, we’d like you to come back!

And finally, if you feel there is anything else we could be doing to reduce our environmental impact please let us know.

GLENAVON HOTEL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY

At Glenavon House Hotel, we are committed to operating as a responsible and sustainable business.  We recognize the importance of minimizing our environmental impact, promoting social responsibility, and contributing to the well-being of our local community. This sustainability policy outlines our commitment to sustainable practices in various aspects of our operations without compromising the comfort, standards and enjoyment of our guests.

    1. Energy Efficiency:
      • We have installed energy-efficient lighting, appliances, and HVAC systems.
      • We encourage guests to use energy wisely, e.g., by turning off lights and electronics when not in use.
      • The hotel has renewable energy sources such as solar panels.
      • In periods of low occupancy, sections of the hotel are isolated to allow heating and lighting to be economised upon.
      • Pool temperature is carefully monitored.
    2. Water Conservation:
      • We use water from a well in the hotel with minimal use of mains water.
      • Where possible we have implemented water-saving technologies.
      • Guests are encouraged to reuse towels and linens to reduce water and energy usage.
    3. Waste Management:
      • We have implemented a comprehensive waste management program which includes composting food waste and bailing cardboard, recycling plastic & ink cartridges and batteries.
      • We use of electronic mail in the main to reduce paper.
      • Minimise single-use plastics and encourage the use of biodegradable or reusable alternatives.
      • We donate unused but still usable items to local charities every month.
    4. Pollution:
      • Drainage systems are not contaminated.
      • The hotels cooking oil is collected by a registered company for recycling into bio fuel.
    5. Community Engagement:
      • We support a number of local communities through partnerships with local businesses, artisans, and farmers.
      • We regularly participate in community events and contribute to local charities or environmental initiatives.
    6. Employee Training:
      • Hotel staff are trained on sustainable practices and the importance of minimising environmental impact.
      • We foster a culture of sustainability among employees.
    7. Guest Education:
      • The hotel guests are informed about the hotel’s sustainability initiatives and encourage them to participate.
      • We provide information on local environmental and cultural practices.
    8. Transportation Alternatives:
      • The hotel offers 6 electric vehicle charging stations to encourage eco-friendly transportation.
      • Information on public transportation options are available from hotel reception.
    9. Food and Beverage Sustainability:
      • The majority of the the hotels food products are sourced from local producers.
      • Food waste is minimised through careful inventory management.
    10. Certifications and Recognitions:
      • We are in the the process of obtaining certifications from a recognised sustainability organisation – Green Tourism .
      • We will proudly showcase sustainability awards and certifications to guests.
    11. Continuous Improvement:
      • The hotel regularly assesses and updates sustainability practices to incorporate new technologies and best practices.
      • We solicit feedback from guests and staff to identify areas for improvement.
    12. Monitoring and Reporting:
      • We track and report on key sustainability metrics, such as energy and water usage, waste diversion rates, and carbon footprint.
      • Progress and achievements are available to report to stakeholders and the public.

Updated Jan 2024