With record summer temperatures across Europe focusing minds on the urgency of the climate crisis, a British dome manufacturer is advocating sustainable glamping practices to ensure that sites are planned and designed to help combat global warming.
TruDomes CEO, Kelda Bassett, said:
“Glamping businesses tend to be more environmentally conscious than most other businesses and we always get a receptive audience when we discuss the subject of sustainable design at trade events. There are various ways to achieve carbon reduction in the immediate-term and the long-term.”
The lifecycle of accommodation is a vital consideration for sustainable glamping. Much has been discussed about the circular economy as an alternative model which challenges the way we manage our material impact on the environment: instead of steadily degrading, it uses systems which continually regenerate, minimising waste and maximising use of resources. TruDomes has often encountered glamping businesses whose short-term decisions run counter to that approach.
Kelda Bassett explains:
“Many glamping sites import cheaper, less durable solutions without an understanding of their long-term impact on the environment. Low-grade products quickly deteriorate and require remediation or replacement, adding to carbon footprint and landfill. Apart from making financial sense in the long-term, investing in accommodation with lower maintenance and a longer lifespan is one of the most effective ways to make glamping more sustainable.
“Responsible sourcing and choice of materials is vital for the circular economy. We supply our domes in packaging that can be 100% repurposed and many of our customers make full use of that benefit. We also use aluminium to manufacture our dome frames. As the metal with the lowest carbon footprint, its recyclability is unparalleled. Aluminium can be recycled over and over again without loss of performance.”
With glamping businesses increasingly set up to facilitate a year-round yield, retaining heat in the cooler months is vital to reduce the carbon footprint of glamping accommodation. TruDomes’ technical team is available to advise on ways to improve thermal performance. The company recommends the use of dome covers with triple-lined foil insulation to keep interiors cool in summer and warm in winter, providing temperature regulation without reliance on high energy consumption.
Off-grid electricity is a common feature of many campsites, particularly in remote locations, and TruDomes has been supporting site owners in maximising the benefits of renewable energy. The geodesic shape of a dome provides a natural advantage in this respect, with a multi-angled surface which enables solar panels to charge up more efficiently. Solar extraction fans can optimise temperatures, support natural ventilation and aid efficient air circulation.
With industries of all types having a collective responsibility to drive carbon reduction, TruDomes believes collaboration is the key to effective results in the hospitality sector.
Kelda Bassett said:
“TruDomes are always keen to share our ideas and expertise on sustainability, but many other glamping businesses will have their own insight that we can learn from too. Addressing the climate crisis requires everyone to pull in the same direction. I’m sure that spirit of togetherness will be a driving force for positive action.”
Find out more about TruDomes on their member profile page here
Member-created content 1 year ago | From members