At Diggerland Durham, we are thrilled to announce that we have been awarded the Bronze Award with Green Tourism, a prestigious sustainable accreditation within the tourism and hospitality sector. This achievement recognises our dedication to reducing our environmental impact and promoting sustainable practices within our theme park.
Receiving this accreditation was no small accomplishment. We completed an extensive application covering all the eco-friendly initiatives we have implemented at Diggerland Durham. From energy efficiency and water conservation to waste reduction and biodiversity efforts, sustainability is at the heart of our operations. Read on to learn more about how we are working towards a greener future while continuing to provide an unforgettable experience for our guests.
What is Green Tourism?
Green Tourism is an internationally recognised certification that assesses businesses in the tourism and hospitality sector based on their sustainability efforts. Achieving a Green Tourism Award demonstrates a commitment to responsible business practices, environmental conservation, and reducing carbon footprints.
Diggerland Durham’s Bronze Award is evidence of our ongoing work to create a more sustainable and eco-friendly theme park. But we’re not stopping here. We are continually looking for new ways to enhance our sustainability efforts and work towards a Silver or even Gold Award in the future.
Sustainability at Diggerland Durham
Sustainability is an integral part of our theme park’s operations. We have taken significant steps to reduce our impact on the environment while ensuring a fantastic experience for all our visitors. Below are some of the ways we are making a difference:
Renewable Energy and Carbon Footprint Reduction
Energy-Efficient Lighting to Reduce Consumption
Lighting is a crucial part of running our theme park, from illuminating pathways to ensuring safe ride operation. To significantly cut down on energy consumption, we have replaced traditional lighting systems with LED lighting throughout the park. LED bulbs use up to 80% less energy than conventional incandescent bulbs and have a much longer lifespan, reducing waste and the need for frequent replacements. By making this switch, we have drastically lowered our energy usage while maintaining high-quality lighting for our guests.
Eco-Friendly Ride Operations for Sustainable Fun
Our commitment to sustainability extends to our rides and attractions, which have been designed to be as energy-efficient as possible. We continuously review and upgrade our machinery to ensure minimal power consumption while maintaining safety and enjoyment for our visitors. Additionally, our team is trained to operate the rides responsibly, preventing unnecessary energy waste and optimising efficiency.
Looking to the Future
While we have already implemented several effective strategies to reduce our carbon footprint, we are always seeking new ways to improve. We are actively exploring additional renewable energy solutions, such as increasing our solar capacity, improving our park’s insulation to reduce heating and cooling needs, and investing in energy storage technology to maximise efficiency.
Waste Management and Recycling
At Diggerland Durham, we are committed to responsible waste management and recycling as part of our broader sustainability efforts. We recognise the importance of reducing landfill waste, reusing materials where possible, and recycling to help protect the environment. By implementing a range of eco-friendly initiatives, we aim to minimise our environmental impact while encouraging our visitors to do the same.
Reduction of Single-Use Plastics
Plastic pollution is a significant global issue, and at Diggerland Durham, we have taken steps to minimise the use of single-use plastics across our park. In our café and goodie store, we have significantly reduced disposable plastic packaging and replaced it with biodegradable or recyclable alternatives where possible. We also encourage visitors to bring reusable water bottles and take advantage of our refill stations to cut down on plastic waste.
Composting Initiatives
Food waste is a major contributor to landfill sites, generating harmful greenhouse gases such as methane. To combat this, we have implemented composting initiatives for organic waste generated by our food outlets. Whenever possible, food scraps and biodegradable waste are composted rather than discarded, helping to reduce our carbon footprint while creating nutrient-rich compost that can be used in our green spaces.
Supporting Biodiversity
As part of our sustainability efforts, we are committed to protecting and enhancing local wildlife habitats while ensuring our operations remain environmentally friendly. Through a variety of initiatives, we aim to create a welcoming space for nature to flourish alongside our exciting attractions.
Tree Planting Initiatives
Trees are incredibly important for the environment. They absorb carbon dioxide, provide oxygen, and offer shelter to a variety of species. At Diggerland Durham, we actively participate in tree-planting initiatives, adding new trees to our parkland whenever possible. These trees contribute to cleaner air, improved soil quality, and increased habitats for birds, squirrels, and other small wildlife.
Creating Wildlife-Friendly Spaces
We believe in making space for nature to thrive. That’s why we have developed wildlife-friendly areas throughout our park, ensuring that birds, insects, and small mammals have safe places to live and breed.
To encourage biodiversity, we have created bug hotels, providing essential shelter for insects such as bees, ladybirds, and butterflies. These small but important creatures play a crucial role in pollination and maintaining a balanced ecosystem. By offering them a safe habitat, we help support the local insect population while enhancing the natural beauty of our surroundings.
Additionally, we have designated areas where weeds and wild plants are left to grow naturally. While some may see weeds as unwanted, they are actually vital for many species, providing food and shelter for pollinators and other wildlife. By allowing these areas to flourish, we create a more sustainable environment that supports the entire ecosystem.
Why Our Green Tourism Bronze Award Matters
The Green Tourism Bronze Award is a significant milestone for Diggerland Durham. It acknowledges our continuous efforts to operate sustainably and demonstrates our commitment to reducing our environmental impact.
We are proud to be a theme park that not only delivers fun and excitement for families but also takes responsible steps towards a greener planet. By choosing to visit Diggerland Durham, you are supporting an attraction that values and prioritises sustainability.
Plan Your Visit to Diggerland Durham
Now that you know about our commitment to sustainability, why not plan your visit and experience our eco-friendly theme park for yourself? Enjoy thrilling digger-themed rides, interactive activities, and an unforgettable family day out while supporting a business that cares about the environment.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your tickets today and get ready to dig into a world of adventure at Diggerland Durham!
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All information correct as of: 04/04/2025.
