Accommodation contracted for the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games has become part of an environmental accreditation scheme, it has been announced.

The accolade was a target set out by VisitScotland as part of its Greener Glasgow Tourism Project.

A total of 67 different hotels and university halls, which will be used by Games' officials, accredited media, sponsors and VIPs throughout the during of the events, have signed up to initiatives such as the Green Tourism Business Scheme or Environmental Business Awards.

Welcoming the news, Leader of Glasgow City Council and Chair of Sustainable Glasgow, said: "This is a great achievement towards growing our city's green economy. Glasgow is striving to become one of the most sustainable cities in Europe. Sustainability incorporates not just environmental issues but ensuring social and economic sustainability too.

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"Everyone in Glasgow has a vested interest in protecting our environment and both the public and private sectors have a role to play in making the city greener. The hotel and accommodation providers play a key part in ensuring our city's sustainable tourism credentials.

"The Greener Glasgow Tourism project is a fantastic example of what can be achieved if we work together."

Liz Buchanan, VisitScotland Regional Partnerships Director and Chair of the Greener Glasgow Tourism Project, added: "It's fantastic to have 100% of the contracted accommodation providers now part of an environmental scheme. Visitors are becoming more environmentally aware so not only is there a moral obligation for companies to consider their sustainability practices there is also a growing business case.

"This achievement brings us a step closer to helping position Glasgow as a leading sustainable destination. I hope the businesses involved in the Greener Glasgow Tourism Project continue to lead by example and inspire many other organisations to follow suit."

(JP/IT)