A family-run caravan park in Ceredigion has been recognized for its sustainability efforts, earning NatWest Cymru’s ‘Green Business of the Year’ award for its commitment to environmental responsibility and energy efficiency.
Bargoed Farm, located between Aberaeron and New Quay, has placed sustainability at the core of its operations since opening in 2017.
Owned and operated by husband-and-wife team Geraint and Christine Thomas, the site hosts the largest battery storage facility in Wales, which stores energy generated by solar panels installed on two large roof spaces.
According to a report by Cambrian News, the park also features a dedicated recycling center constructed from repurposed farm machinery, allowing staff to efficiently process waste materials, including plastic, glass, paper, cardboard, and tins.
Some of the collected materials, such as cardboard, are sold, while general waste is shredded to minimize landfill contributions.
Additional sustainability measures include four electric vehicle charging points, the use of electric buggies for on-site transport, and LED lighting throughout all buildings.
The caravan park also operates a self-contained water center that supplies hot water to 50 hardstanding pitches with private hot tubs.
In its farm shop and bistro, Bargoed Farm sources products from local suppliers, supporting regional businesses while reducing its environmental footprint.
Geraint Thomas frequently shares insights on sustainability at industry events, emphasizing the benefits of integrating eco-friendly practices into business models.
“We’re thrilled to have won this accolade, and to be recognized for our extensive sustainability efforts,” Thomas said.
“Working in nature, we see first-hand how important protecting our precious environment is, and we’re always trying to come up with additional ways to make our business more sustainable as well as help other firms on similar journeys.”
Jessica Shipman, NatWest Cymru regional board chair, commended Bargoed Farm’s comprehensive approach to sustainability, stating:
“Bargoed Farm stood out for its deeply embedded commitment to making the entire business more sustainable, from its dedication to local suppliers and its major deployment of solar power to providing advice for other companies.”
For business owners in the outdoor hospitality sector, Bargoed Farm’s success highlights the growing importance of sustainability as both an operational priority and a competitive advantage.
As consumer demand for environmentally responsible businesses continues to rise, implementing similar initiatives—such as renewable energy, efficient waste management, and local sourcing—can help parks enhance their reputation, reduce costs, and contribute to long-term environmental goals.
