We’re absolutely delighted to have received our certification from the Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Geopark’s community regenerative tourism business network. As Ireland’s oldest working pottery and a business that employs over 150 people in the local area, being part of this network feels like a natural fit for who we are and what we stand for. We’ve always believed that looking after our community and our surroundings is just as important as the craft itself, and this certification gives us a brilliant framework to build on.
We’ve been working hard on our impact across a number of areas and we’re proud of the progress made so far. Our solar PV system now covers around 30% of our energy needs, reducing carbon emissions by 18 tonnes annually. We have also been repurposing production waste through a partnership with a local construction supplier rather than sending it to landfill.
We’re now working on plans to replace halogen and CFL lighting across the factory and visitor centre with energy-efficient LEDs — taking care, of course, to make sure any changes still protect the ambience of our tours and give our skilled crafters the lighting they need to work to the level of detail our handmade pieces demand.
Currently we have some biodiversity work taking shape on site. A stretch of our riverbank is being developed into a natural wild habitat, complete with wildflowers, managed hedgerows, and a bug hotel to support local insects and wildlife.
Getting our certification from the Cuilcagh Lakelands network is pushing us to think bigger. We will proudly continue to work within the network.
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