Ecotourism has become a popular alternative to the mass tourism of recent decades, and has been estimated to be growing at a rate of 10-15% per annum. Ecotourism focuses on ecologically and socially responsible nature based tourism that fosters environmental appreciation and understanding while contributing to the local economy.

Building on the success of our recent Ecotourism Conference and documented interest in the development of ecotourism in Meath, we have recently appointed Mary Mulvey of Ecotourism Ireland to assist tourism and rural businesses in County Meath to become more environmentally aware in their operations. Mary has worked on various succssful ecotourism projects in the north-west of the country and brings this experience to Meath.  "This type of tourism is unique in that the visitor really wants to give something back.  It's small-scale tourism, using local food, guides and local resources; eco-tourists want to learn about hte place, its people and its environment and contribute towards its conservation.  They are looking for a genuine experience that is authentic and unique and they are willing to pay more for it, and, in this regard, Meath has a lot to offer," says Mary

Ecotourism Training on Offer

Incorporating best practice visits, group training, one-to-one mentoring and networking, the LEADER supported training programme will include themes such as: Ecotourism Business Planning, Marketing Strategy, Environmental Policy for your Business, and devleoping Ecotourism Packages.

Through the programme participants can progress towards achieving the new Ecotoursim Ireland Certification for their business, an essential requirement if you are planning on selling to the Green Market.  Applicants must operate or be planning to establish a rural tourism business in Meath as teh programme can cater for a maximum of 20 participants.

Those interested must be available to undertake a one-to-one meeting with the course tutor as part of Training Needs Analysis.  Initiatl meetings will take place on 17th and 18th April in Kells.

For more information or to book your place email Áine on aine.duffy@meathpartnership.ie