Hostels claim top green award

A top European environmental award has been given to two UK youth hostels, which have become the first organisations in this country to receive the accolade. The European Ecolabel was awarded to the hostels in Lockton, North Yorkshire, and Langdon Beck in the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The two hostels were adjudged to fulfil the strict green requirements of the award scheme, displaying the highest standards of reducing their impact on the environment on issues such as energy efficiency, water use and staff training.

"I am delighted that the first awards in the UK have been won by the Youth Hostels Association, which has always been at the forefront of providing opportunities for everyone to appreciate the outstanding natural environment of our countryside,” said Environment and Climate Change Minister Ian Pearson. "I hope the YHA will be the first of many organisations taking forward this European green award."

Ewan Boyd, YHA Environment Manager, added;"The Ecolabel Flower Scheme is based on a really rigorous set of environmental criteria. Guests can rest assured that in achieving this award, YHA Langdon Beck and Lockton provide the very highest standards of green tourist accommodation.”