Sustainable Tourism Case Study: Cool Runnings Events

ABOUT THE COMPANY

Cool Runnings Events is an event and adventure tourism operator managing seasonal businesses, including Alpine Skate Trail Cork and Zipit Cork. The company delivers public recreational activities and outdoor forest experiences.

ENVIRONMENTAL INITIATIVES

• B Corp Accountability: Achieved B Corp Certification in 2025, which includes an annual environmental performance review to monitor and improve operational standards.
• Renewable Energy & Emissions: Installed solar panels at the head office, preventing 12.14 tonnes of CO2 emissions over the 1,070 days since installation.
• Alternative Fuels: Utilizes Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) fuel to power generators at Alpine Skate Trail Cork, reducing emissions compared to traditional diesel. All company travel and operational vehicles are electric or hybrid models.
• Waste & Conservation: Provides clear on-site waste segregation to facilitate visitor recycling. The company enforces a strict Leave No Trace policy at Zipit Cork to protect the surrounding forest ecosystem.
  
  

SOCIAL INITIATIVES

The company addresses industry seasonality through a cross-business employment model, allowing staff to move between Alpine Skate Trail Cork and Zipit Cork to secure stable, year-round employment at all levels. Local community support is maintained through donated sessions, gift vouchers, and raffle prizes. This includes a dedicated bottle return scheme established in partnership with Active Connections Ireland, an outdoor charity based in Killeagh, where all raised funds are directly donated. Additionally, the business designs its spaces for inclusion, regularly hosting wheelchair user groups and adaptive sports clubs at the Alpine Skate Trail.

GOVERNANCE INITIATIVES

The company legally amended their company constitution to consider the interests of all stakeholders including employees, communities and the environment. They completed a B Impact Assessment, reviewing performance across governance, workers, community and environmental impact to better understand and improve overall responsibility as a business. They are committed to transparency and continuous improvement, with regular reviews of practices and policies as part of their B Corp Certification journey. They maintain clear and fair company policies to ensure responsible management, accountability and a positive working environment for the team. Where possible, they show a preference for local and responsible suppliers, supporting the local economy while reducing environmental impact associated with sourcing and logistics.

ECONOMIC SUSTAINABILITY

Cool Runnings Events prioritizes Cork-based suppliers and collaborating with local businesses and venues to service group celebrations and events. The company provides localized employment opportunities with defined pathways for internal progression, allowing staff to advance into senior operational roles within the organization. This combination of regional purchasing and multi-season staff retention helps keep economic activity stabilized within the local community throughout the year.