Gleneagle, Killarney operates with a long-term commitment to responsible hospitality, environmental stewardship, and community engagement.
Our approach combines internationally recognised sustainability standards, practical energy and resource management, and active support for the local community and environment.
These principles guide how we host guests, deliver events, and operate as part of Killarney and County Kerry.
Gleneagle operates to four internationally recognised ISO standards, reflecting a structured and accountable approach to sustainability and responsible operations:
Gleneagle Arena was the first venue in Ireland to achieve ISO 20121 certification, demonstrating leadership in sustainable event management. All four certifications have been retained consistently in recent years, reinforcing our commitment to long-term improvement rather than one-off achievement.
These standards guide how events, conferences, and large-scale gatherings are delivered at Gleneagle, helping organisers meet their own sustainability and responsibility goals.
Gleneagle has invested more than €1 million in energy-efficient infrastructure designed to reduce consumption while maintaining guest comfort.
Key initiatives include:
These measures have delivered significant reductions in energy consumption and carbon emissions.
To support more sustainable travel, Gleneagle provides five electric vehicle charging points across the property. These are available to guests and residents, making it easier to choose lower-emission transport when visiting Killarney.
Our food philosophy supports local producers and responsible supply chains wherever possible.
We work with Irish farmers, certified fisheries, and ethical suppliers to ensure ingredients are traceable and sustainably sourced. This includes Bord Bia Quality Assured produce, certified seafood schemes, and responsible international sourcing standards.
Kitchen teams also focus on whole-ingredient preparation to minimise waste and make full use of seasonal produce.
Sustainability at Gleneagle extends beyond environmental responsibility. As a long-standing family business in Killarney, supporting the local community has always been part of how we operate.
Gleneagle provides long-term local employment and works closely with schools, charities, sporting organisations, cultural groups, and social initiatives throughout Kerry. Support takes many forms, including fundraising events, sponsorship, hosting community activities, and providing facilities for local initiatives.
One of the most enduring examples of this commitment is the Gleneagle Concert Band and School of Music.
Established in 1981 by the late Maurice O’Donoghue, the band has become an important cultural presence in Killarney, bringing together musicians of all ages to perform a wide repertoire ranging from classical and ceremonial music to contemporary arrangements and music from stage and screen.
The Gleneagle School of Music provides structured music education through instrumental tuition, theory classes, and ensemble training. Brass and woodwind instruments are provided through an instrument loan programme, ensuring young musicians can participate regardless of background.
Through the band and school, generations of young people have been introduced to music, performance, and community involvement.
Being located beside Killarney National Park brings a responsibility to protect and respect the surrounding landscape.
Gleneagle actively supports biodiversity initiatives including the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan and local Tidy Towns efforts, and participates in the Fáilte Ireland Climate Action Programme.
We also encourage nature-based experiences for guests, promoting low-impact ways to explore the lakes, forests, and mountains of Killarney National Park.
Sustainability is not static. Policies, systems, and operational practices are regularly reviewed to identify opportunities for improvement.
Recent initiatives include the introduction of low-temperature laundry systems that reduce energy use, water consumption, and plastic packaging while extending the life of linens.
We do not claim to have all the answers, but we remain committed to learning, adapting, and improving year on year.
Gleneagle has always been a place where people gather — for music, celebration, conversation, and shared experiences. Looking after the environment and community that make those gatherings possible is part of that responsibility.
When you stay, meet, attend an event, or unwind at Gleneagle, you are supporting a hospitality business that takes that responsibility seriously.
Our aim is to offer experiences that feel generous and welcoming, while protecting the place and community that make those experiences possible for generations to come.
