- Energy use
We are replacing all our lightbulbs with energy efficient LED alternatives when they reach the end of their life whenever possible.
When replacing electrical equipment, we choose products with the highest energy efficiency rating possible.
We are changing our boilers to highly efficient condensing replacements.
We are re-roofing several of our properties and installing better insulation.
We are seeking funding to support other energy-saving measures where they are beyond our own budgets.
- Monitoring and accountability
We set carbon reduction targets and report our progress to funders.
- Supplies and materials
You can buy locally sourced products in our Café, and products and gifts made by local artists and artisans in our Shop. We buy goods from local suppliers when we can.
We use cleaning products that are phosphate-free and packaged in biodegradable materials.
When we are repairing our buildings, we use locally sourced slate and materials that are low in embodied energy wherever possible.
- Training
We train all of our staff in the changes that they can make through their personal behaviour.
We work with Julie’s Bicycle, an advocacy charity that helps cultural organisations become more sustainable.
- Travel
We offer discounts to visitors who come by bus, and we have worked with partners to ensure that Dove Cottage is named on our local bus stops.
Our vehicle is low-carbon emitting.
We have installed an electric car charging point on our car park.
We keep our travel-to-work emissions low by offering onsite accommodation to staff and enabling hybrid working where practical for staff who live offsite.
We use cloud-based video communications for meetings when we can, further reducing staff travel.
- Waste
We have reduced our non-recyclable waste to fit inside one standard domestic wheelie bin, emptied fortnightly.
We have reduced our use of non-recyclable packaging as much as possible. We use paper bags in our Shop, and our Café serves takeaway products in plant-based compostable packages.
