Outdoor activity experts discuss South West environmental code of conduct

Louise Osborne, University of Exeter ESI Research and Knowledge Exchange Manager, organised the event. Louise explained: “The day provided a great opportunity for attendees to increase their knowledge on how good environmental practices can enhance not just business opportunities but Cornwall as a whole. It was also a chance for Environment and Sustainability Institute to support businesses in the sector and facilitate a knowledge exchange to help agree best practice.

“We had fifty attendees with loads of enthusiasm and a strong consensus to improve environmental standards in the industry. The attendees and facilitators are in agreement to meet again and progress the work forward so overall it was a really positive event.”

The event, which was attended by adventure sports providers, wildlife groups and key environment stakeholders in Cornwall, was facilitated by JP Eatock of Lizard Adventure and David Jones, of the Pembrokeshire Coastal Forum. Both have extensive experience of creating collaborative networks of outdoor activity providers for business and environmental benefits.

Delegate Steve Crummay, Director at Explore in Cornwall, said: “Cornwall’s environment is extraordinary and special. Our job is to enable people to discover that, but also to ensure it’s there for our children. A code of conduct for business to follow will help ensure that.”

The ESI is working with businesses and enterprises across all sectors of the economy in Cornwall, the Isles of Scilly and beyond to translate research and expertise into innovative business practices, products and services in order to respond to the challenges of environmental change. It has been funded by the European Regional Development Fund Convergence Programme (£22.9M) and the South West Regional Development Agency (£6.6M), with significant support from the Higher Education Funding Council for England.