We are supported in our sustainability practices, and in our improvement journey by the world-leading sustainability accreditation partner, Green Tourism. Achieving a Green Tourism award means that our sustainability practices have been assessed and verified by a credible partner. It shows that we have an ongoing commitment:
- To sustainability standards and practices
- To work responsibly, ethically, and sustainably
- To contribute to our community
- To reduce our impact on the environment
- To be accessible and inclusive to all visitors and staff
Green Tourism has assessed Cycling for Softies against 15 sustainability criteria grouped under the pillars of People, Places, and Planet. These consider the social, economic, and environmental actions we undertake, providing a holistic assessment of our sustainability performance.
Our Highlights
Green Tourism also helped us to highlight our areas of sustainability strength. At our last assessment, our sustainability highlights included the below.
Communication
“Cycling for Softies clearly communicates their green commitment well to clients.”
We believe in full transparency when it comes to our sustainability efforts. This is one of the reasons we decided to carbon label our tours. By understanding our carbon footprint, we can understand the ways in which our holidays affect the planet and put in place practices that will actively reduce this.
Community
“Cycling for Softies supports a number of environmental charities.”
We’re proud supporters of Mossy Earth, who help rewilding and reforesting efforts across the world. Our monthly contribution to this charity not only helps offset any carbon emissions, but also actively benefits the ecosystems of the regions they operate in. Specifically, our contribution helps fund the rewilding projects in the Carpathian Basin.
Cycling for Softies is also proud supporters of World Bicycle Relief, who provide life-changing Buffalo Bikes to remote communities across the world. Thanks to these bikes, distance is no longer an obstacle for socio-economic wellbeing; children can safely get to school, farmers can bring their goods to market, and healthcare works can reach those in need.
Health & Wellbeing
“Cycling for Softies does an excellent job at promoting wellbeing through active travel.”
Cycling is a fantastic way to explore a region. Not only are you helping to cut carbon emissions by pedalling instead of driving, but you’re also keeping active. This is fantastic for your general wellbeing, and cycling through a region is the best way to fully experience the destination.
Experiences
“Fantastic promotion of local experiences to customers, encouraging them to engage in the culture of the region.”
Engaging in the local communities, supporting family-owned business and immersing yourself in the culture of the region is what a Softies holiday is all about. Not only will the holiday experience be that much more authentic, but the local economy and community is also supported, meaning your visit has benefited the region.
What do the Green Tourism gradings mean?
Silver
Typically, a business that falls under this category can demonstrate good practices across the three pillars of People, Places, and Planet, but has an action plan of best practice improvements that will enhance the sustainability efforts within the business. We are delighted to have been awarded the Silver award.
For more information on our sustainability, visit our hub or call our cycle experts on 0207 471 7760.