At Inis Meáin Island Stays, we prioritize sustainability in everything we do. Since our original design and construction practices from 2000 to our daily operations today, we strive to minimise our environmental impact and preserve the island’s natural wonders for future generations.
By choosing Inis Meáin Island Stays, you embark on a journey that embraces sustainability without compromising on comfort or luxury. Experience the magic of this remarkable island, knowing that your stay contributes to its preservation.
Here’s a glimpse into our commitment to sustainability:
Conservation of our Burren Landscape Island Farm Estate
We support the biodiversity and special archaeology of our 70-acre burren-landscape Farm by maintaining the iconic walls and keeping growth in check to keep rock exposed, enabling all of our many species of flora and fauna to prosper. To help us do this we breed a small herd of mostly Angus cows, who graze gradually through the 3 mile long farm stretching from coast to coast. The cows’ grazing and manure give special flowers like the Spring Gentian and many types of wild Orchids the space and nutrients to grow in abundance on the rocky but highly fertile Burren Landscape.
Conservation of Native Irish Bees
The island’s abundance of special Burren flowers are supported by our Native Irish Bees of which we now have 5 hives scattered through our Island Farm. The species is in danger of extinction through the regular importation of foreign bees to Ireland, often with diseases that the Native Irish Bee has no natural immunity against. We play a key role in their conservation helped by the Connemara Beekeepers Association, ensuring a pure strain of the Native Irish Bee can continue to exist in isolation on the islands to help maintain the benefits of biodiversity.
Organic Henkeeping and Vegetable Growing
We reduce our carbon footprint while optimising our guests’ experience by keeping hens to provide wonderful free-range eggs and by growing our own vegetables, salads and herbs in the House gardens and greenhouse.
Low-impact Small Scale
With just 2 Houses hosting a maximum of 12 guests at a time, we are reducing the tourism footprint on the treasured nature, archaeology and culture of the island.
Low-impact Buildings
Our Houses are thoughtfully designed to blend harmoniously with the island’s landscape. We have incorporated locally sourced materials, renewable energy sources including solar panels and an air to water pump, substantial insulation, rainwater harvesting systems, and energy-efficient appliances to reduce our carbon footprint, while providing guests with a very comfortable and authentic experience.
Waste Management
We are dedicated to preserving the island’s unique biodiversity and cleanliness through careful waste management practices. We implement recycling, composting, and minimise single-use plastics and packaging as much as possible and encourage and facilitate our guests to do the same.
Support for our Island Community
Inis Meáin Island Stays is deeply rooted in the local community. With houses built from the ground up by islanders and having offered a renowned hospitality business on the island since 2007, we have always offered substantial employment on the island of just 180 people, stretching all year round in administration, farming and maintenance. We work with local farmers, fishermen and artisans to showcase their sustainable practices and promote the island’s cultural heritage. By supporting local businesses, and community initiatives and charities, we contribute to the island’s economic growth and help foster a sense of community resilience.
Nature-Based Experiences
Guests can immerse themselves in the island’s natural beauty through our nature-lodge type amenities. From nature-spotting hikes along breathtaking cliffs, to sea-swimming exploring the often crystal-clear waters, our Exploration Kit helps to connect guests with the island’s stunning landscape while fostering a deep appreciation for its preservation.
