Eco Green Camping in the United Kingdom

May 8, 2012 - PRLog -- Eco-camping, sustainability, green awards, bio-diversity? Where to start? We have an amazing variety of campsites here in the UK from “Back to Basics” to an all singing, all dancing Holiday Park but what makes a campsite ‘green’. The answer is a whole host of factors all of which are driven by the passion and ethos of the people who run them. Statistics show that here in the UK 68% of us will make a green choice if it’s presented to us.

Top tips when looking for a campsite’s green credentials:

Recycling
Something many of us do automatically at home and yet not all businesses and campsites supply recycling points. Can be annoying to see all your recycling waste go to landfill. Look out for campsites that do recycle. Many provide multiple points around the park.

Green Awards
There are 2 big awards to look out for in the camping industry. David Bellamy Award and the Green Business Tourism Scheme. Both of these offer Gold, Silver and Bronze awards. Both look at a whole range of criteria from renewal energy to the purchasing of goods. These 2 awards are not exclusive as they do require a membership of various organisations. There are also many local awards run by National Parks, Local business schemes or Regional Tourist Boards.

Local Produce
Can be one of the great highlights of camping. Trying fantastic regional goods supplied almost at source. Look for campsites that are proud to source and sell local produce. Some grow their own veg, some link up with local butchers and offer BBQ packs, some bake their own bread on site.

Renewable energy
Solar and wind power are being used more and more by campsites owners. Some may use it for powering the site. Others use it to help heat swimming pools and provide showers. Using it to top up and therefore reduce their usual energy usage as well as using your own Eco Camping Gear and Camping Equipment

Backpacker rates
Forward thinking campsites offer back packer rates to those arriving on foot or by bike. Makes sense as well. Someone carrying their camping gear brings smaller tents, takes up less space, no vehicles = less damage to the land, more likely to buy local produce rather than shopping in Tesco. Look for campsites that actively encourage people arriving by Public Transport , on foot or by bike. These campsites offer discounted rates.

Wildlife programme
Many campsites develop wild flower areas and encourage natural habitats on their land. Then promote these by providing walks, guides, signage boards and even in some case guided walks and nocturnal nature visits with a ranger. Great for kids and adults alike.
The David Bellamy Award is a big advocate of Bio-diversity and those campsites which are members of the scheme are encouraged to look at their parks and surroundings with fresh eyes.

Biodegradables used
Having a campsite in a stunning location, perhaps on farm land, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty or a National Park, can have a huge impact on the environment especially when hundreds of campers descend for the week or weekend. All having showers, washing up using toilets. Many campsites take their role as land owners very seriously and will source biodegradable cleaning and other products. To do your bit think carefully before you go away. What do you need, what can you bring. Packing List

Public Transport Links
Look out for campsites which are situated near good public transport links and which actively encourage their usage. This could be for getting to the campsite in the first place or enjoying a car free day while staying. Many campsites give out great local information meaning you can plan a car free day easily. Perhaps to visit a local landmark, beach or attraction. A popular way is to plan a one way walk. Take the bus from the campsite and walk back. Or vice versa! Visit http://www.hillfieldscampingandleisure.co.uk for more information and offers.