Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire has unveiled some of its green initiatives as the visitor attraction sets a benchmark for sustainable tourism.
The destination is working to become a place for eco-conscious visitors through many initiatives, including reducing waste, promoting renewable energy and fostering biodiversity.
Blenheim Palace encourages guests to travel green, with incentives for visitors arriving by train, bus, bicycle or electric vehicle.
The attraction also aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2027 and has already added a 6.5-hectare solar park that powers the equivalent of 721 homes, avoiding 15,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions over 15 years.
As for rewilding and biodiversity, more than 200 acres of natural habitats have been restored, with 50 acres of pollinator-rich meadows created in partnership with Rowse Honey.
Additionally, Blenheim Palace has prevented more than 100,000 cups from going to landfills every year by phasing out single-use cups.
Dominic Hare, CEO at Blenheim Palace, said: “Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do at Blenheim Palace.
“From the restoration of our historic roof to the development of pollinator-friendly meadows, every initiative reflects our commitment to future generations. We’re proud to lead by example and inspire visitors to become part of this journey too.”
Sustainability and conservation at Blenheim
This year, Blenheim Palace is to start work on the most ambitious restoration project in its history – the full repair of large sections of the roof.
This £10.4 million, two-year initiative reuses existing materials, incorporates recycled insulation, and captures rainwater for reuse.
“This is a truly historic moment for Blenheim Palace and a chance for everyone to see it from a whole new perspective,” said Heather Carter, managing director of Blenheim Palace.
She added: “The restoration project is not just about preserving our past; it’s about creating new ways for visitors to engage with our history now and well into the future.”
Images courtesy of Blenheim Palace
