Armada Hotel hosts inspiring sustainable tourism conference

With the theme of ‘Climate Action, Community and Collaboration’, this year’s Inspiring Sustainable Tourism Conference took place in the Armada Hotel in Co Clare on Thursday 23 January 2025.

Organised by the Sustainable Tourism Network, the annual event was supported by Visit Clare, Burren & Cliffs of Moher Geopark and KPMG Future Analytics &; KPMG Sustainable Futures this year.

Ballymaloe Cookery School trailblazer Darina Allen gave the keynote talk. Speaking about Ireland’s tourism offering, Allen stated, “We should have confidence and pride in our local produce and traditions as it’s what’s special about Ireland. And conserving recipes and traditions is an act of modern day patriotism.”

Allen’s contribution was followed by a panel discussion on how organisations involved in creating strategies for destinations can transform tourism into something that is richer and more rewarding for local people and visitors alike. The speakers on this panel were Fiona McKenna, Sustainable Destination Development Officer, Clare Tourism Development James Chilton, Associate Director, KPMG Future Analytics Consulting; and Barry Rogers, Head of the Dublin City Tourism Unit.

The Sustainable Tourism Network’s mission is to transform the Irish tourism industry into a sustainable and regenerative business sector that respects and protects the environment, but also supports local communities and makes better places for people to live and work in.