This simple check list helps you to pinpoint where the company is situated on its way to sustainable tourism. Its aim is also to give a clear picture of the companys present position with regard to environmental matters. This list must, in all cases, be completed by company management prior to applying for a VAKINN environmental category, as designated by the Icelandic Tourist Board.
The company is not expected to have carried out all the items mentioned on the list. This is only intended as a snap shot of the current situation, and what could be done to further enhance its performance.
How should the check list be used?
The list should be completed by ticking the appropriate boxes. The list gives an idea of what can be done to improve performance. In this way it creates a picture on which to base a plan of action. It is by no means certain that all items on the list will apply to all applicants concerned.
When the list has been completed, the final page can be used to draft an action plan, detailing those improvements deemed most imperative and easiest to tackle.
The number of tasks already implemented, is one of the items which give points towards the companys environmental category.
To achieve a bronze badge the company is required, for example, to have carried out 6 significant actions to reduce waste, save energy, encourage environmentally friendly procurements etc.
As far as those actions are concerned, it is best to look first to operational matters, where directors and staff could better their performance by changing work procedures.
This is often merely a case of changing accepted customs or examining what and from whom supplies are ordered.
There is also the question of what the company contributes to society. No company is independent of the society within which it operates and a good co-existence with its immediate surroundings could raise the opinion of visitors, thus increasing business.
Next, the operational side is considered, where investment might be rewarded by long-term savings. Ideas for further actions may be found on: www.vakinn.is