Sustainability Policy

Blackstairs Eco Trails is committed to delivering responsible, high-quality outdoor
experiences that align with Ireland’s national sustainable tourism objectives. This policy is informed by the principles of Fáilte Ireland’s Sustainable Tourism Framework, Leave No Trace Ireland, and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) criteria, ensuring that our activities protect the environment, support local communities, and contribute positively to the regional economy.

Operating within the Blackstairs Mountains, we recognise our responsibility to safeguard a sensitive upland landscape of high ecological, cultural, and recreational value for current and future generations.

In line with Fáilte Ireland’s sustainability pillars, Blackstairs Eco Trails will:

• Apply Leave No Trace Ireland principles across all guided activities and educate participants in responsible outdoor recreation.
• Minimise disturbance to habitats, wildlife, and landscapes by using established trails and adhering to agreed access arrangements.
• Reduce waste generation through prevention, reuse, and recycling, and actively discourage single-use plastics.
• Use environmentally responsible equipment, materials, and suppliers wherever possible.
• Monitor environmental impacts of activities and adapt practices to avoid degradation of trails, habitats, and natural features.
• Support landscape protection objectives relevant to the Blackstairs region.

Blackstairs Eco Trails is committed to supporting Ireland’s climate action goals by:

• Reducing greenhouse gas emissions associated with operations, transport, and procurement.
• Encouraging car-sharing, public transport use, cycling, and walking where feasible.
• Prioritising local suppliers and services to reduce transport-related emissions and support the local economy.
• Using energy, water, and resources efficiently in all aspects of operations.
• Raising visitor awareness of climate change and its impacts on upland, rural, and biodiversity-rich environments.

In accordance with Fáilte Ireland’s emphasis on community benefit, we will:

• Respect and promote the cultural heritage, place names, folklore, and history of the Blackstairs region.
• Support local employment, guides, producers, and service providers.
• Work collaboratively with landowners, local communities, recreation groups, and relevant authorities.
• Ensure our activities are inclusive, welcoming, and respectful of diversity, with reasonable efforts made to improve accessibility.
• Maintain a safe, respectful, and positive environment for visitors, staff, and partners.

Blackstairs Eco Trails aims to deliver meaningful and educational visitor experiences by:

• Integrating environmental awareness, local knowledge, and sustainability messaging into all guided experiences.
• Encouraging visitors to act as stewards of the landscape during and after their visit.
• Promoting responsible behaviour that enhances visitor enjoyment while protecting natural and cultural assets.
• Contributing to Ireland’s reputation as a high-quality, sustainable outdoor tourism destination.

Blackstairs Eco Trails is committed to:

• Operating as a financially viable and resilient tourism enterprise.
• Applying ethical business practices, transparency, and fair pricing.
• Delivering consistent, high-quality services that provide long-term value.
• Reinvesting in staff training, safety, equipment, and environmental management.
• Supporting sustainable rural development through responsible tourism.

We will:

• Comply with all relevant health and safety, insurance, and outdoor activity guidelines.
• Ensure guides are appropriately trained, qualified, and experienced, including first aid and environmental awareness.
• Balance visitor safety with environmental protection and responsible access.
• Promote physical and mental wellbeing through safe, respectful engagement with nature.

Blackstairs Eco Trails will:

• Comply with all applicable environmental, tourism, and safety legislation and codes of practice in Ireland.
• Regularly review sustainability performance in line with Fáilte Ireland guidance and GSTC principles.
• Set realistic sustainability objectives and monitor progress.
• Seek feedback from visitors, partners, and stakeholders to inform continuous improvement.

Responsibility for implementing this policy lies with the management of Blackstairs Eco Trails, supported by all guides, staff, and partners. Sustainability is a shared responsibility, and everyone involved is encouraged to contribute to its delivery.

This Sustainability Policy will be reviewed annually, or sooner if there are significant changes to operations, legislation, or environmental conditions.