Project and Awards
Burren Nature Sanctuary, we are dedicated to protecting the unique biodiversity of the Burren. Our conservation projects focus on rewilding, habitat restoration, and education to inspire a deeper connection with nature. Through these initiatives, we aim to preserve this extraordinary landscape for future generations.
Sustainability & Environmental Responsibility
We are committed to running our business in a truly sustainable manner, engaging visitors with nature to foster respect and responsibility. Our responsible tourism environmental policy includes:
Raising awareness about sustainability among staff, suppliers, and visitors.
Ongoing staff training on sustainability, natural history, and environmental policies.
Dedicated conservation efforts across our 50-acre site.
Implementation of an Environmental Action Plan with measurable targets for waste, water, energy, travel impact, and purchasing.
Working Together for a Sustainable Future
We collaborate with key stakeholders to develop the Burren & Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark as a sustainable tourism destination. Our partnerships include:
Galway University Plant Sciences Department
The National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin
Kinvara Tidy Towns Biodiversity Project
The Burren Ecotourism Network (B.E.N.)
As a member of B.E.N., we collaborate with other tourism enterprises to promote sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship. The network provides training, networking, and business development opportunities while ensuring that tourism in the Burren supports conservation and local livelihoods.
Community Engagement
Tourism at Burren Nature Sanctuary is designed to benefit both visitors and the local community. We actively contribute through:
The Fairy Wishing Well Fundraiser, supporting local children with special needs (€322 raised in 2023, €1,000 in 2019).
Donations of 30 family day passes to local fundraisers in 2023.
Ongoing partnerships with local businesses and sustainable tourism initiatives.
Responsible Resource Management
We continuously work towards improving our environmental impact:
Energy: Insulation, LED lighting, and solar installation (grant applied for in 2023).
Water: Rainwater harvesting and treated water reduction.
Waste: A near-zero waste café model, composting organic waste, and using recyclable materials.
Sustainable Transport: Electric vehicle purchase and planned EV charging station installation in 2024
Awards & Recognition
Our commitment to sustainability, conservation, and education has been recognised through multiple prestigious awards:
2013 Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark Visitor Interpretation Gold Award
2014 Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark Leave No Trace Gold Award
2015 SCCUL Enterprise Award for Arts and Tourism
2016 Irish Responsible Tourism Awards Silver Award
2017 Green Hospitality Eco Award
2017 JCI Bank of Ireland Friendly Business Award – Community Impact
2019 Energia Sustainable Business of the Year Silver
2019 Business for Biodiversity Award at the National Biodiversity Conference
2021 Innovation and Excellence Award – ‘Nature Podcast of the Year’ for Nature Magic
2023 European Travel Awards – Nature Attraction of the Year ROI
2025 SEAI Awards– Small Business finalist
