AC Baths earns environmental award

AC Baths has gained a Qualmark Enviro-Bronze Award, recognising its high standards in environmental practices.

To earn New Zealand tourism’s official environmental award, AC Baths had to show effectiveness in energy efficiency, waste management and water conservation, with community activities and conservation initiatives also considered under Qualmark’s environmental criteria.

AC Baths Manager Virginia Munro was ecstatic with the result. “Only six weeks ago we achieved the Qualmark for excellence as a tourism service provider, so to achieve the bronze award for environmental practices is just the icing on the cake.”

The use of thermal energy to heat pools and showers, and the recent installation of a UV filtration system for the ‘learn to swim’ pool were major contributing factors for the result.

“We live in such a naturally beautiful part of the country, so it is important that we make as little an environmental impact as possible. This award just goes to prove the hard work and effort that has gone into making this business as sustainable as possible.”

TKMP Committee Chairman Kathryn Uvhagen says the AC Baths should be a beacon to other businesses in Taupo. “The issue of sustainability is becoming more and more apparent; we cannot continue to ignore it. I whole heartedly congratulate the AC Baths team on this stunning result.”

All businesses carrying the Qualmark logo must meet standards for environmental practices, says Qualmark chief executive, Geoff Penrose, with the awards recognising top performers in this area.

“Environmental practices are evaluated as part of our quality assessment process and Enviro Awards are granted to businesses showing a high degree of commitment to caring for the environment and their community,” says Mr Penrose.

Over 470 businesses have achieved Enviro Award status - recognising their commitment to Qualmark’s responsible tourism criteria and environmental practices.