Green tourism
Green tourism is a term used to describe best environmental practice within the tourism sector. Members of the Green Tourism Business Scheme, a Visit Scotland accredited scheme, have demonstrated a firm commitment towards reducing the impact of their business on the environment. The Scheme uses independent assessors to grade businesses against over 120 measures which cover a range of environmental, economic and social issues, e.g. efficient heating and lighting, nature conservation, community involvement, waste management, and sustainable transport.
University of St Andrews, Agnes Blackadder Hall
Green Tourism Business Scheme: Gold Award
Agnes Blackadder Hall, located on North Haugh campus, is the largest catered hall within the University. Commissioned in 1993, it offers en suite accommodation for up to 540, in single and twin bedded rooms. During the summer vacation period it operates as a 3 star hotel and accommodates groups, conferences and holiday makers.
Environmental issues and conservation feature in the high standards of thermal insulation, double glazing, building management controls and motion sensor lighting in corridors. Additional measures include recycling of a wide range of waste streams, and provision of indoor cycle storage.
Agnes Blackadder Hall was awarded the Green Tourism Business Scheme Gold Award in February 2007.
University of St Andrews, David Russell Apartments
Green Tourism Business Scheme: Gold Award
David Russell Apartments, situated off Buchanan Gardens on the western boundary of St Andrews, are the striking result of an extensive redevelopment project. Over a three year period which started in 2002, the former David Russell Hall has been replaced with a series of independent buildings housing 750 residents. Over the summer months the apartments are available to conference groups and holidaymakers.
Environmental concerns have been at the heart of the new development and this has led to the achievement of a Green Tourism Business Scheme Gold Award in July 2006.
Key to the design and specification of the development has been a 'whole life' approach and emphasis upon sustainability. Where possible, rubble from the demolition of David Russell Hall was crushed on site and reused for hard core beneath the foundations of the new buildings and existing mature trees have been incorporated into the redevelopment. The residential buildings benefit from state of the art climate controls, high levels of thermal insulation, a rainwater recovery system and card-operated electronic controls. A central facilities building features a sedum roof covering.
For further information and to make a reservation, please take a look at the University of St Andrews Discover St Andrews website.