For the first time, Northern Ireland will host the Inspiring Sustainable Tourism Conference on January 22, 2026, at the picturesque Killeavy Castle Estate in County Armagh. The seventh annual event aims to delve into key issues in sustainable tourism, placing an extreme emphasis on climate action, community impact, and collaboration across sectors. It is a very timely opportunity whereby tourism businesses will learn how sustainability can add to their reputation and bottom line while offering parallel benefits to the planet.
Promoting Sustainable Practices in Tourism
The Inspiring Sustainable Tourism Conference is organized by the Sustainable Tourism Network (STN), which has long been a leading provider of sustainability training for the tourism industry across Ireland. In partnership with the Newry, Mourne, and Down District Council, the event will bring together prominent voices from both the tourism and business sectors to discuss how tourism can be reshaped to protect local communities, the environment, and cultural heritage, while driving economic growth.
Adrian Martin, the director of hospitality at Killeavy Castle Estate, explained that the conference would serve as an essential platform for learning and collaboration. “Sustainability is central to our operations, and this conference presents a chance for businesses to connect, share knowledge, and discover practical ways to embed sustainable practices into their operations,” he said.
The Conference Theme: Climate Action, Community, and Collaboration
The theme for the 2026 conference, “Climate Action, Community, and Collaboration,” is particularly relevant given the growing urgency for the tourism industry to address its environmental impact. As one of the sectors responsible for 6.5% of global emissions in 2023, tourism must adapt to sustainable practices to mitigate its ecological footprint. This conference aims to equip industry professionals with the knowledge and tools necessary to make meaningful changes.
Not only will it address environmental issues, but it will also highlight how tourism can be a force for good in local communities. Tourism has the potential to provide valuable economic opportunities, preserve cultural heritage, and drive conservation efforts. By promoting collaboration across businesses, local governments, and communities, the event seeks to unlock the full potential of sustainable tourism in Northern Ireland and beyond.
Killeavy Castle Estate: A Model of Sustainable Tourism
Killeavy Castle Estate, the conference venue, is a prime example of sustainability in action. The estate has received numerous awards for its environmental initiatives, including the Sustainable Hospitality & Tourism Business of the Year in 2024 and 2025. These accolades highlight its commitment to regenerative tourism, which emphasizes restoring and nurturing ecosystems rather than exploiting them.
Among its sustainability efforts, the estate has planted over 27,000 native broadleaf trees to create a biodiversity corridor linking the estate to the nearby Slieve Gullion Forest Park. Additionally, solar panels were installed in 2025 to reduce energy consumption, demonstrating how tourism businesses can integrate green technologies into their operations. A £1.5 million landscape restoration project on the estate’s 365 acres is also rewilding farmland and enhancing local biodiversity.
A Diverse Group of Experts and Thought Leaders
The conference will feature several notable speakers from various sectors, including:
- Seán McCabe, Head of Climate Justice and Sustainability at Bohemian Football Club, will discuss grassroots climate action and its integration with international advocacy.
- Kellie-Ann Hoey, Director of Communications and Responsible Business at SHS Group, will share insights on corporate responsibility and sustainability initiatives, including SHS Group’s award-winning programs.
- Adrian Martin, Director of Hospitality at Killeavy Castle Estate, will provide a deep dive into how luxury hospitality can embrace sustainability and provide tangible benefits to both guests and the environment.
- Darren Rice, Manager of Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark, will highlight efforts to connect people to the natural, cultural, and built heritage of the Geopark.
- Joe McGirr, Founder of The Boatyard Distillery, will discuss how Fermanagh’s first legal distillery since 1890 achieved B Corp Certification in 2023, setting a benchmark for sustainable practices in the alcohol industry.
- Michelle Boyle, Head of Tourism Product Development at Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, will share how the UNESCO Global Geopark designation drives sustainable tourism.
These speakers bring a wealth of experience and knowledge, making this conference a must-attend for anyone involved in tourism and sustainable development.
The Growing Demand for Sustainable Tourism
The 2025 Travel & Sustainability Report by Booking.com reveals that 84% of tourists now prioritize sustainable travel options. A significant portion of travelers are keenly aware of the impact tourism can have on local communities and the environment. In fact, 73% of tourists want their spending to support local areas, and 77% are seeking authentic cultural experiences.
These trends highlight the growing importance of sustainability in tourism. As travelers increasingly demand environmentally friendly and socially responsible options, businesses in the tourism sector must evolve to meet these expectations. The Inspiring Sustainable Tourism Conference offers valuable insights on how to do this while benefiting from the economic opportunities that responsible tourism can provide.
Impact on Local Communities and the Environment
Sustainable tourism not only addresses environmental concerns but also plays a crucial role in preserving and enhancing local communities. Responsible tourism can help create jobs, protect cultural heritage, and promote local businesses. It can also foster stronger connections between tourists and the places they visit, encouraging deeper respect and appreciation for the local environment and people.
The conference’s emphasis on climate action, community collaboration, and sustainable business practices reflects the need to strike a balance between economic development and environmental stewardship. The tourism industry can be a driver of positive change, provided it is managed responsibly and sustainably.
Looking Ahead: A Sustainable Future for Tourism in Northern Ireland
The 2026 Inspiring Sustainable Tourism Conference is set to be a pivotal event in Northern Ireland’s tourism landscape. By bringing together thought leaders, industry experts, and local businesses, it will help shape the future of tourism in the region. With sustainability at its core, the conference will educate attendees on how to implement responsible practices that benefit the environment, enhance community engagement, and improve business profitability.
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