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The environment is the main reason people visit Scotland. Tourism has an impact on any destination, especially those with fragile or sensitive landscapes. Tourism businesses and visitors to Scotland can reduce their impact by taking a responsible approach. This may even help to contribute to the conservation of the destination.

More and more tourism businesses are becoming green by thinking about their business efficiency, environmental management, waste and transport, as well as their social impact and the biodiversity near their business. Green tourism businesses make efforts to reduce their negative impact on the surrounding environment and local communities.

Waste is a big issue for the tourism businesses. Visitors, accommodation providers, restaurants and visitor attraction all produce waste. In Scotland The Green Tourism Business Scheme rewards businesses who minimise their impact on the environment. GTBS members are encouraged to reduce, reuse and recycle. With the increase in recycling points and centres across Scotland there are numerous ways to take advantage of the facilities available and preserve the environment on holiday wherever you go.

In this edition, The Network looks at being waste aware on your summer holidays. When heading off for your summer break, take a picture of any waste facilities where you are and send them in to enter our photo competition and find out how it’s done in Italy as Focus On interviews Enzo Favoiono.

In addition, the new WasteDataFlow system for Municipal Waste reporting is explained and there are updates to policy and legislation issues to keep you up to date. For more information about what is happening in your local area, visit Your Network.