Why Join the Scheme
Achieving the Green Acorn Award isn’t just about environmental responsibility; it’s a strategic business move. As a member, you unlock tangible benefits that help you stay competitive in a changing market:
- Energy Consumption Monitoring: Gain full awareness of your fuel and energy usage to identify waste, leading to direct cost savings through the strategic introduction of high-efficiency appliances.
- Streamlined Waste Management: Conserve natural resources and slash overheads by cutting waste and reducing your business’s pollution footprint.
- Staff Training & Engagement: Improve overall business efficiency as your team masters sustainable steps to reduce consumption, reuse materials, and recycle more often.
- Attract High-Value Guests: Modern travellers increasingly seek ECO-friendly providers. Displaying the Green Acorn mark gives guests confidence that they are supporting a community-wide commitment to preserving Cornwall’s unique landscape. Your business can specifically appeal to the growing market of eco-conscious travellers and consumers who actively seek out and prefer sustainable accommodation and suppliers.
- Slash Operational Costs: By increasing awareness of fuel and energy consumption, the scheme helps you identify where and how to introduce efficient measures, leading to significant long-term savings.
- Enhance Your Reputation: Membership signals to both customers and suppliers that your business is a leader in conscious travel.
- Support the Local Economy: Strengthen your community ties and lower your carbon footprint by sourcing goods locally, significantly reducing “carbon miles.”
- Sustainability Knowledge Hub: Stay ahead of industry trends with a regular newsletter.
- Expert Sustainability Advice: Navigate the complexities of green business with free, unlimited support and advice on all sustainability matters from our team and fellow award holders.
- Inclusive Membership Standards: Join a diverse network of forward-thinking organisations.
- Membership is accessible to any business ready to meet the practical Green Acorn Criteria.
Who Can Apply
The Green Acorn Award is built on the belief that sustainability should be inclusive, not exclusive. Unlike many national schemes that require businesses to hold a specific star rating or formal quality grading to participate, we have removed those barriers to entry. Whether you manage a boutique hotel, a rustic campsite, a local café, or a single holiday cottage, our doors are open to you. We want every business in the region to have the opportunity to showcase their environmental commitment. By making the scheme accessible to everyone, regardless of the size or luxury level of their establishment, we can create a much larger collective impact on the preservation of our local landscape.
What Does it Cost
For just £80 per year, your membership includes a bespoke annual inspection designed specifically for your business. Rather than a standard audit, this session provides tailored, practical advice and realistic suggestions to help you achieve your unique green objectives.
How to Apply
To get started, complete the application form below and press Submit. Once received, a member of our team will be in touch.
Note: It is our responsibility to protect your privacy and we guarantee that your data will be completely confidential.
