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Jolly Green Giant
Monday 1st of May 2006  |  News Source: Travel Trade Gazette
With pressure mounting on travel companies to take sustainability issues seriously, Thomson has put the wind up its sails by becoming the latest major tour operator to wave the green flag.
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Jolly Green Giant

The company recently signed a contract with Scottish and Southern Energy to supply 60% of its shops with renewable energy generated from hydro, solar and wind power and also agreed to trial schemes such as separating waste for recycling on select Thomsonfly flights and auditing the environmental impact of a few featured hotels.

But should we really be applauding? Does this really mark a commitment to better the world or is it simply another way for Thomson to better themselves?
Managing Director Peter Rothwell described the move as a “win-win” situation, which, of course, it is: Thomson have made a small saving on its energy bills whilst reaping positive publicity from token green gestures. The majority of us have been separating our waste for recycling and using renewable energy suppliers for ages yet Thomson are trialing the schemes as if they are pioneers.
“We’re always looking for opportunities to be greener,” Rothwell claims, “ and are committed to strengthening the position of our business on all aspects of environmental impact and sustainable development.”

Whilst I usually uphold the notion that a little bit is better than nothing when it comes to such matters, I can’t help but wonder why only 60% of Thomson’s shops are powered by renewable energy? Why not all of them, and the offices to? Why hasn’t recycling been implemented on every aircraft instead of a few and environmental audits introduced for all hotels? Surely this corporate giant should be hoisting the green flag higher than half-mast before we allow them to jump aboard the bandwagon?


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