Sustainability
The natural environment has always been important to us and as grandparents to two young boys we want to do whatever we can to help preserve our natural resources. Check out our ethos below.
Our sustainability efforts
Supporting and protecting our biosphere
Andrew has been a member of the RSPB since childhood and a member of the Woodland Trust for over 25 years. Our ingredients are bought locally whenever possible to reduce our food miles and will this year be growing a larger amount of our own fruit and vegetables.
To reduce our energy consumption we have replaced a lot of the inefficient machinery and light fittings that were in the business with more energy efficient items. At the end of our current contract our business electricity supply will transfer to a green energy provider, we have already done this on the house supply. Our menu is designed to reduce waste by offering customers more choice so that as little as possible is left on plates and does not then go straight in the bin.
All of our organic kitchen waste and our coffee grounds are composted by us. Over the last two years we have worked with our suppliers to eliminate as much plastic as possible in our supply chain.
Our biosphere application
Taking a look at our biosphere application gives a good insight into what we do to protect our natural resources.
How do you support and protect the natural resources?
We buy locally whenever possible to reduce our food miles and will this year be growing a larger amount of our own fruit and vegetables. To reduce our energy consumption we have replaced a lot of the inefficient machinery and light fittings that were in the business with more energy efficient items. Our menu is designed to reduce waste by offering customers more choice so that as little as possible is left on plates and does not then go straight in the bin. All of our organic kitchen waste and our coffee grounds are composted by us. Over the last two years we have worked with our suppliers to eliminate as much plastic as possible in our supply chain.
How will you support local business and employment?
Both our ingredients for our menu and items for our gift shop are bought as locally as possible with close to 80% coming from local suppliers. Our number of employees has also increased year on year and this year we will be giving even more employment opportunities to school age children to give then valuable work experience.
How will you support, promote, preserve and protect local culture, products and heritage?
By continuing to support local crafters by promoting their products in our gift shop. We have also spent time researching the history of our building and will be promoting this on a page on our website. We are blessed to have the Catstrand in our village and we regularly promote cultural activities that take place there.
What actions will you take to encourage health benefits from the natural environment and support the health of others?
We have a display stand in the cafe that already contains leaflets that detail the many outdoor activities available in our area as well as a number of walking books that are available to buy in our shop. Our Facebook page regularly shares details of the numerous outdoor activities that take place throughout the year. Our menu contains many healthier dining options.
How will you share knowledge about the special qualities of the environment, culture, people and places that make up the Biosphere?
Many of our staff have lived in the area for some time and regularly share their knowledge of the areas environment and history with visiting customers. We will also continue to share knowledge of events and places through or website and Facebook page.
How will you tell family, employees, friends, visitors, customers and community about the GSA Biosphere?
We will raise awareness of the Biosphere through active promotion on our Facebook page and displays in the cafe. Employees will be aware of our support and will make customers aware of the Biosphere when discussing the local area.