Hotel Doolin's greener way of life has trebled their turnover in the past 8 years
Imagine a business plan where profits are soaring and you're helping to save the planet? Perfection, right? Well the clever folk at Clare's Hotel Doolin have made some smart changes to become a leader in green hospitality in Ireland.
Speaking on Today FM's Dermot and Dave, General Manager of the hotel, Donal Minihane, reveals the "tonnes of little things" they have been doing.
These simple steps include:
- banishing plastic bottles
- harvesting rainwater
- growing their salads, herbs and veg in a 50ft polytunnel
- buying off local suppliers
- never using single-use items
- reducing food waste
These are all hugely effective, but the two main changes are that they have stopped burning oil (converted to an air to water ambient heating system) and have planted trees; "in the past two years we have planted 1,700 tress. 1 tree equates to 1 tonne of carbon".
The sustainable option is kinda the one that makes most sense and makes your bills more efficient and profitable
Having the label of 'Ireland's Only Carbon Neutral Hotel' has proven to be a massive attraction for guests with the turnover having trebled in the past 8 years.
The addition of an eco-friendly barn has made the hotel one of the most desirable wedding venues along the Wild Atlantic Way;
This year we will host probably 95 weddings. 8 years ago we had none
And although Donal doesn't think their Doolin project is as impressive as what some of the larger cities and countries are doing, he does hope that, "other businesses might see what a small community like us can do and that might inspire them".
Check out Donal's inspirational chat in full by pressing the play button on screen.
