The Falkirk Wheel receives Gold Green Tourism Award
Scottish Canals is proud to announce that The Falkirk Wheel has been awarded the prestigious Gold Green Tourism Award, highlighting its unwavering commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.
The Falkirk Wheel, a marvel of modern engineering and a popular visitor attraction, has been independently assessed against rigorous sustainable certification standards. Achieving this gold status is a testament to the dedication of The Falkirk Wheel team in promoting eco-friendly practices and protecting the natural environment of its surroundings.
After six years, a pandemic, and major repair works since the last assessment, the reassessment in March has confirmed The Falkirk Wheel's continued commitment to sustainability. As the heart of the community, The Falkirk Wheel is proud to promote the sustainable efforts that often go unnoticed.
Visitors to The Falkirk Wheel can enjoy a range of eco-friendly activities, including paddle pick-ups where local schools and youth groups join in keeping the canals clean while getting some exercise. Collaboration with volunteer groups helps maintain cleanliness on land through litter picking and contributes to area regeneration with tree planting and rewilding. These initiatives have earned The Falkirk Wheel the status of a Keep Scotland Beautiful hub and a 100% score in community engagement.
The wellbeing of both customers and staff is a priority at The Falkirk Wheel. Efforts include comfortable break rooms for staff, engaging play facilities for children, physical exercise activities proven to reduce stress, and an accessible and inclusive design ensuring facilities cater to lots of different types of needs. These practices have led to a 100% score in health and wellbeing.
The Falkirk Wheel's commitment to sustainability extends beyond visible initiatives. Key measures include safe waste practices earning an 83% score, and efforts to reduce carbon emissions such as replacing gas boilers with air source heat pumps, installing solar panels, and upcoming updates to boats, resulting in an 87% score in carbon management. With a net zero route map in place, The Falkirk Wheel is dedicated to reducing emissions and continuing its journey towards a greener future.
Scottish Canals Sustainability and Climate Change Manager Daniel Musenga-Grant said: “Scottish Canals is delighted to have secured the Gold Green Tourism Award for The Falkirk Wheel for the fourth time in a row. This highlights our team’s dedication to continual improvement, providing the best experience to our customers, and working towards our net zero goals. Special congratulations goes to the green champions and the Activities Team for all their hard work.”
Scott Maclean, Managing Director of Green Tourism said: "We are delighted to recognise the sustainability practices of The Falkirk Wheel with our Gold Green Tourism Award. Not only does the team have a credible and ambitious approach to achieving net zero and a comprehensive understanding of the attractions relationship with the environment, but they also have a exceptional commitment to supporting their local community and an approach to continuous improvement which is an exemplar to the industry. We look forward to working with The Falkirk Wheel to further advance their already impressive sustainability practices."
