The Two Minute beach clean promises Economic and Environmental Benefits

Report on the Pembrokeshire Tourism Summit: Pioneering Sustainability and Climate Action

The recent Visit Pembrokeshire Tourism Summit proved to be a thought-provoking event, showcasing significant strides in sustainability and climate action within the region. Notably, two major initiatives stood out: Bluestone's innovative approach to reducing their carbon footprint and Pembrokeshire National Park's efforts to foster behavioural change among visitors.

Bluestone's Commitment to Sustainability

Bluestone has embarked on an impressive mission to enhance sustainability, employing science and data to significantly lower their carbon emissions. Their efforts extend beyond their own operations, as they actively engage and educate their supply chain partners on becoming more carbon-neutral. This holistic approach not only bolsters Bluestone’s green credentials but also fosters a wider network of sustainable businesses.

One of Bluestone's standout initiatives is their campaign to encourage visitors to bring their own water containers, with refill stations conveniently located throughout their site. By eliminating the sale of bottled water, they have not only reduced plastic waste but also attracted environmentally-conscious visitors. This ethical and practical strategy is a testament to their commitment to sustainability and has had a positive impact on visitor numbers.

Pembrokeshire National Park's Beach Clean Campaign

Pembrokeshire National Park's innovative 'Two Minute Beach Clean' campaign was another highlight of the summit. The concept is simple yet powerful: visitors spend just two minutes picking up litter during their beach visits. This small effort, if adopted widely, can lead to significantly cleaner beaches, creating a sense of pride and ownership among visitors.

Cleaner beaches not only improve environmental conditions but also enhance the region’s appeal as a tourist destination. The economic benefits are clear—better-maintained beaches attract more tourists, who in turn spend more on local amenities such as restaurants, activities, and accommodation. This initiative demonstrates how small behavioural changes can have a substantial impact on both the environment and the local economy.

Addressing the Cost of Climate Change

The summit also highlighted the tangible costs associated with extreme weather conditions resulting from climate change. Pembrokeshire has felt these impacts acutely, yet the region is meeting these challenges head-on through collaboration and innovation. The exchange of resources and ideas among local businesses and organisations is fostering a resilient and forward-thinking community.

The collective efforts of these innovative and dedicated individuals point to a brighter future for Pembrokeshire. By continuing to prioritise sustainability and climate action, the region is not only protecting its natural beauty but also ensuring a thriving, economically viable future.

Conclusion

The Pembrokeshire Tourism Summit underscored the region's proactive stance on sustainability and climate action. Bluestone’s data-driven approach to reducing carbon footprints and the Pembrokeshire National Park's community-focused beach clean campaign are exemplary initiatives leading the way. These efforts, combined with a collaborative spirit, promise a resilient and prosperous future for Pembrokeshire, setting a benchmark for other regions to follow.