Marine Hotel Ballycastle becomes one of Northern Ireland’s first B Corp certified hotels

In a landmark achievement for sustainable hospitality, the Marine Hotel Ballycastle has officially joined the global B Corp community, becoming one of the first hotels in Northern Ireland to earn this prestigious certification.

The announcement marks a significant milestone for the Causeway Coast establishment, which has long championed ethical business practices, environmental stewardship, and community engagement.

B Corp certification, awarded by the non-profit B Lab, recognises businesses that meet rigorous standards of performance, accountability, and transparency across five key areas: governance, workers, customers, community, and the environment.

For the Marine Hotel, this accolade is a formal endorsement of its longstanding commitment to balancing profit with social and environmental impact.

“This isn’t a big shift for us, it’s who we’ve always been,” said Claire Hunter, Director of Marine Hotel Ballycastle.

“We’ve always put people first, supported our community, and taken responsibility for protecting our beautiful coastal environment. Now, as a certified B Corp, we’re wearing that commitment proudly and helping to spread the word about doing business as a force for good.”

A Commitment to People, Planet, and Profit

Nestled along the stunning Causeway Coast, the Marine Hotel has embedded sustainability into every facet of its operations. From energy-efficient lighting to water-saving initiatives, the hotel has reviewed and tailored its day-to-day practices to minimise its environmental footprint.

A remarkable 90% of its food and contractors are sourced within a 50-mile radius, ensuring support for local producers and reducing carbon emissions.

Additionally, 90% of the hotel’s team live within a 15-minute drive, reinforcing its role as a vital local employer.

The hotel’s vision is clear: to be the leading 4-star hotel on the North Coast, delivering consistently excellent and affordable services while prioritising sustainable local produce and environmentally responsible operations. Its mission complements this ambition, focusing on high-quality, relaxed beachside hospitality in a workplace that is safe, healthy, fair, and fun, with a commitment to nurturing talent and building the future of the hospitality industry.

As a certified B Corp, the Marine Hotel is now legally obligated to consider the impact of its decisions on all stakeholders—not just shareholders—operating with equal focus on People, Planet, and Profit. This places the hotel among a global network of progressive businesses that bridge the gap between traditional for-profit models and non-profit organisations.

A Rigorous Journey to Certification

The path to B Corp certification was no small feat. The process required months of documentation, evaluation, and a formal change to the hotel’s legal governance structure.

The Marine Hotel extended special thanks to Graham and Heather Gillen of Eccountinc, Invest NI, and the wider B Corp community across Ireland and the UK for their invaluable support.

“We did this because it matters,” said Claire Hunter.

“It’s not easy, and that’s the point. B Corp isn’t just a badge, it’s a blueprint for doing business better.”

A Hub for Community and Sustainability

Beyond its operational achievements, the Marine Hotel is a cornerstone of the Ballycastle community.

Known for supporting local events, sports clubs, and charitable initiatives, it serves as a vibrant hub for both residents and visitors. Its commitment to diversity, inclusion, and sustainable practices further strengthens its role in shaping the social and environmental landscape of the Causeway Coast.

The hotel’s efforts align with a growing demand for green tourism, as travellers increasingly seek eco-friendly accommodations that prioritise ethical practices. By joining the B Corp community, the Marine Hotel is poised to inspire other businesses in Northern Ireland and beyond to adopt sustainable models.

Leading the Way for Ethical Hospitality

The Marine Hotel’s B Corp certification positions it as a trailblazer in Northern Ireland’s hospitality sector, demonstrating that profitability and purpose can go hand in hand. As one of the first hotels in the region to achieve this status, it sets a powerful example for others to follow.

For those eager to learn more about the hotel’s sustainable journey, further details are available at marinehotelballycastle.com/sustainable.

With its unwavering commitment to people, planet, and profit, the Marine Hotel Ballycastle is not just redefining hospitality—it’s shaping a brighter, more sustainable future for the Causeway Coast and beyond.