Tourism and Environment Forum member Historic Scotland has successfully got another of its properties through the Green Tourism Business Scheme. Iona Abbey and Nunnery is the latest recipient of a coveted gold award under the Green Tourism Business Scheme (GTBS).

The scheme was established in 1998 by the then Scottish Tourist Board (now VisitScotland) to encourage best practice in tourism businesses to reduce environmental impact and save resources. Historic Scotland’s staffed properties are being audited under the scheme, which allocates bronze, silver or gold awards.

Iona Abbey and Nunnery came into the care of Historic Scotland in 1999 and is one of Scotland’s most historic and sacred sites. The abbey was founded in AD563 by St Columba and has retained its place as a focus for worship and Christian pilgrimage.

Historic Scotland’s Director of Properties in Care, Owen Kelly praised the efforts of staff in working closely with the island community to share environmental savings.

“Iona’s island ecology is precious and Historic Scotland tries as much as possible to contribute to a positive environmental balance. As well as adopting best practice used elsewhere on the island, the GTBS inspector was also impressed with the range of locally sourced crafts on sale in the abbey shop.

“The conservation work we are carrying out is also worrthy of mention. To preserve the built heritage, Historic Scotland ensures that natural lime mortars and traditional techniques are used. This approach tallies well with the aims of green tourism.”

Further Information

• Historic Scotland
• Green Tourism Business Scheme