Environmental policy

“We aim to walk lightly on this earth, taking care of the environment as we go”

Background

Converted from the former barns and outbuildings, our vision is to offer exceptional self-catering accommodation within the beautiful Peak District National Park, whilst protecting the environment and local wildlife.

Our environmental commitment was originally to ensure that we:

  • Become legislatively compliant
  • Reduce operating costs
  • Enhance our reputation.

Since then we have implemented a waste and recycling policy and instigated an energy saving initiative.

As a small business we are aware that our activities can cause harm to the environment and we are taking steps to minimize this effect, including investigating ways of achieving a “Carbon Neutral” status.

We are pleased to say that in September 2006 we were awarded the Peak District Environmental Quality Mark and again in 2007 – an award which recognises businesses who have adopted good environmental practices and contribute to the support and conservation of the Peak District National Park..

In September 2007 we were also awarded Silver by the Green Business Tourism Scheme.

Action is currently being taking in the following areas:

Waste

  • Glass, paper, tins and plastic are recycled
  • Email and telephone is used, where appropriate, rather than paper-based communication
  • Used printer cartridges are sent for recycling
  • Refills and bulk buying are undertaken where possible to reduce packaging waste
  • Ash from the wood burning stoves is used on the compost heap
  • Green kitchen waste is composted and used on the garden
  • Where possible we purchase recycled products to help ‘close the loop’.

Energy

  • Active energy monitoring programme in place to benchmark usage and help identify potential savings
  • Where appropriate energy efficient bulbs replace traditional bulbs when the existing bulb fails
  • Windows are double glazed and draft free
  • During renovation the cottages were fitted with high levels of insulation
  • Curtains over external doors help reduce drafts and heat loss
  • Solar powered lights illuminate the drive
  • All radiators are fitted with thermostatic radiator valves
  • All boilers are regular serviced to ensure maximum efficiency and safety
  • The majority of our laundry is air dried outside saving energy and with the added benefit of the sun performing a natural bleaching action.

Water

  • Active water monitoring programme in place to identify leaks and help benchmark usage
  • Rainwater is collected in an underground tank and used to water the garden and containers in the courtyard
  • Showers are available as a water saving option to a bath
  • ‘A’ or ‘B’ grade dishwashers and washing machines have been fitted throughout.

Purchasing

  • The cottages have been renovated and maintained by a wealth of talented local builders, architects and artisans - wherever possible we use local suppliers and seek to use goods and services which do not have a negative environmental impact.

Transport

  • To ensure that the vehicles used by Blakelow Cottages cause the minimum detriment to the environment and people
  • Guests have access to information on cycle hire, local transport, and lockable facilities for their own cycles
  • Guests are provided with information on “walks from the door”. To enable the choice of a car free break or holiday.

Steve Ogan
September 2007

“Quality and Service with an Environmental Smile”

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Peak District Environmental Quality Mark

Peak District Environmental Quality Mark - demonstrating our commitment to the environment and local communityFor the Peak District National Park ... for the environment ... for quality

The Peak District Environmental Quality Mark is a certification mark. It can only be achieved by businesses that actively support good environmental practices in the Peak District National Park. When you buy a product or service that has been awarded the Mark you can be confident that your purchase directly supports the high quality management of the special environment of the Peak District National Park.

The Peak District Environmental Quality Mark is new, and is the first environmental award of its kind in England. The award scheme will grow as more businesses demonstrate their commitment to the National Park.

To qualify for the Environmental Quality Mark, we have to achieve high standards of care for the environment in all aspects of management including:

  • Conservation of the Peak District National Park
  • Use of locally grown and made products and services
  • Use of environmentally friendly products
  • Efficient use of energy and water
  • Minimisation of waste by reducing, reusing and recycling
  • Provision of environmental information to customers.

As applicants for the Quality Mark we were judged by members of an independent award panel made up of representatives from organisations including:

  • Natural England
  • Rural Action Zone
  • Peak District Sustainable Tourism Forum
  • Friends of the Peak District / Campaign to Protect Rural England

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The Green Tourism Business Scheme

The Green Tourism Business Scheme - SilverThe Green Tourism Business Scheme is an environmental accreditation system of tourism related businesses in Europe. There are currently over 1300 members in the UK who have made a commitment towards reducing the impact of their business on the environment.

Members are committed to best environmental practice and undergo independent assessment of their activities.

 

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