Best Practice Case Studies
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"We were delighted to be awarded a Gold Award in the Green Tourism Business Scheme (GTBS) in 1998. Since then we have made further improvements to our business operation which have been greatly appreciated by our guests ." Mr and Mrs D. Daulby, Ashdene House |
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Ashdene House is a five bedroom guesthouse owned and run by Mr and Mrs Daulby, located on the south side of Edinburgh. It was awarded a Gold Award from the Green Tourism Business Scheme (GTBS) in 1998. The Daulbys are proud of the award and work very hard to ensure that their business maintains that standard. When it comes to green efficiency this guesthouse represents one of the best examples of how energy and waste can be managed in a more eco-friendly way. The benefits from turning their business green go beyond savings on their electricity and gas bills. For example, they know that some visitors have chosen to stay at their guesthouse because of its green credentials; several repeat visitors cite the business’s commitment to the environment as the reason for their return. |
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They realised that some changeovers would require more investment than others so the energy saving light bulbs went in straight away whereas they have only recently been able to install a condensing boiler. Financial records indicated that the initial energy saving devices (not including the condensing boiler) saved 30% on their gas and electricity bills! Less energy use equates to less damage to the earth’s atmosphere and a reduction in global warming. |
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Energy-saving devices are simple and straightforward, some requiring greater investment than others. Energy-saving features include: condensing boiler, showers in rooms instead of baths, small-sized kettles, A&B energy-efficient rated appliances, low energy light bulbs, adjustable valves on radiators (which indicate the ideal setting) and insulation. |
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The Daulbys encourage their guests to use local public transport by providing easy to follow information in rooms on how to travel into the centre of Edinburgh by foot or bus. They also provide bird feed and water to enhance garden biodiversity. The guests appreciate waking up to the sounds of the birds in the garden. Mr and Mrs Daulby use recycled products where possible including recycled toilet paper in all of the bathrooms. The business is committed to using local products where possible. They buy local produce from organic shops and so support small local businesses, which in turn allows them to provide the best quality food and toiletries for guests during their stay. Ashdene House is a member of VisitScotland’s walking and cyclist schemes which encourage walkers and cyclists to stay at their guesthouse. |
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Importantly, the pamphlet goes just that little bit further, by suggesting to guests that environmental principles are not just something that should be thought about while on holiday but should be carried over into their own activities and homes. "We are happy to say that some of our guests have informed us, due to our environmental practices, that they have converted their homes to energy saving light bulbs and have had Thermostatic Radiator Valves fitted, and realise that they don’t need a car in the city". It’s simple! And it is what makes Ashdene House stand out as a best practice green tourism business in Scotland. |
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For further information please contact: Mr & Mrs Daulby Or visit the Ashdene House website at: www.ashdenehouse.com Last updated on 9 March 2004 |
Mr and Mrs Daulby provide environmental information pamphlets in each room which explain what the GTBS is and what they have had to achieve to be awarded Gold membership. The pamphlet asks visitors to sort their rubbish in the rooms by simply leaving papers, glass etc. to the side of the main rubbish bin. The pamphlet also suggests the use of public transport or a walk into town instead of driving.
Contact Us
Sustainable Tourism Unit, VisitScotland,
Thistle House,
Beechwood Park North,
Inverness, IV2 3ED.
enquiries@greentourism.org.uk