Connemara-based Killary Adventure Company has secured a new global environment and social responsibility certification.
The company says it is among the first businesses in Ireland to achieve the prestigious B Corp certification.
The certification is held by over 1,300 companies in 42 countries, including leading global brands Patagonia and Etsy.
B Corporation certification requires companies to meet rigorous standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency.
B Corp Certification evaluates a company's entire social and environmental impact, ensuring sustainable business practices across all operations, from supply chain practices to input materials.
The family-run business founded by sailors and adventurers Mary and Jamie Young in 1981 attracts hundreds of international and Irish participants on its Connemara Adventure Tours every year.
It also runs Gaelforce events, including the annual Gaelforce Great Fjord Swim at Killary Fjord and the Gaelforce West Adventure Race.
Shane Young, director of Killary Adventure Company said the certification “is a testament to our commitment to sustainability and responsible business practices”.
“ Our efforts extend across all our ventures, including Gaelforce Events, Connemara Adventure Tours, and the Killary Lodge,”he said.
“ “This is just the start, and we will continue to upgrade and increase our initiatives. We aim to set a benchmark in eco-friendly tourism and positively impact our environment and community. The future looks bright as we hope to further educate and encourage greener living in rural Connemara,” Young said.
Initiatives undertaken by Killary Adventure company in recent years which led to the B Corp certification include:
Renewable Energy Investments: Installation of a 6kW wind turbine (2002), 32kW of solar panels (2022), and an additional 8kW of solar panels earlier this year, along with a heat pump.
Waste Reduction and Recycling: Using phosphate-free cleaning products, on-site composters and a rigorous waste separation model to support waste management.
Food Waste Management: Converting 100% of the company's food waste into compost using its Ridan compost system which was installed in 2016.
Planting over 5000 native trees: Using compost to plant over 5,000 trees with plans to plant 200 more trees each year to reforest native Irish woodland across its 160 acres.
Community Support: Continuously supporting local initiatives, such as Leenane Development and the establishment of the Killary Coastal Path along the Killary Fjord. It has also donated approx €60,000 to national charities in the last 5 years, including its charity partners Jigsaw Youth Mental Health.
