Air New Zealand achieves the world first Environmental Gold Accreditation
09 June 2009
“Air New Zealand’s achievement of Qualmark’s Enviro-Gold award sets the standard on being a world first environmental and socially responsible airline, and further enhances New Zealand reputation of being 100% Pure.” says Geoff Penrose, Chief Executive Officer of Qualmark.
Qualmark is the official mark of quality for tourism businesses, and last August launched Qualmark Green, a responsible tourism criteria designed to extend environmental and socially responsibly actions for tourism businesses. The five key areas of responsible tourism criteria recognises are energy, water, waste, community, conservation, prgrammes and monitoring. Meaning environmental actions now contribute to the overall score gained by all Qualmark licence holders.
“Air New Zealand’s performance within the responsible tourism criteria was exemplary, with a track record that includes a large number of innovations involving the reduction of fuel and green house gas emissions. Their performance, motivation and integrity to become a world leader in environmentally friendly long haul fleets, is evidenced by the purchasing of new aircraft that meet environmental criteria to reduce carbon emissions. Their programmes cover the spectrum responsible tourism criteria to include: conservation of water and minimise waste are implemented throughout planes, lounges and offices. Their commitment in the community is supported by a dedicated Green Team of over 3,000 staff members who share ideas, plan and implement a varied range of environmental activities and events. While conservation activities range from, the Air New Zealand Environmental Trust committed to funding research and development for alternative fuels, reforestation project at Managarrara Station in Hawkes Bay, and a Carbon Offset Programme which is an option for customer’s to fund the purchase of carbon credits, to offset their travel on line when purchasing tickets.” Says Geoff Prenrose.
Qualmark’s leadership in responsible tourism has to date achieved many tangible outcomes, with a key aim to ensuring visitor expectations of New Zealand’s clean green image is exceeded. Air New Zealand’s overall commitment highlights a large tourism business implementing both environmental and socially responsible practices throughout their organisation, and clearly demonstrates guardianship of the industry, which is to be applauded. Says Geoff Penrose.
