Multi-award-winning Powercourt Estate and Gardens in County Wicklow has received a significant sustainable tourism accolade in light of the many sustainability initiatives which have been implemented on the Estate in recent years.
The stunning Palladian mansion set in 1,000 acres, which include 47 acres of landscaped gardens, is one of Ireland’s top attractions. It is the first major visitor attraction on the island to achieve the certification, which uses criteria that are recognised by the UN-mandated Global Sustainable Tourism Council.
Over the last few years, it has put in place a number of sustainability measures including an integrated energy management system, a waste reduction plan, biodiversity rewilding initiatives such as wildflower meadows, a tree planting programme, and a bee sanctuary at the walled gardens.
A pioneering spirit has always existed for environmental and nature protection on Powerscourt Estate as it was originally purchased to create hydroelectric power at its waterfall, the highest one in Ireland.
The overarching mission at Powerscourt Estate is for it to be recognised on a global stage for its sustainability initiatives, and to be net zero by 2025.