SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT/ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY

1. Policy Statement

OUTSIDE / Support Staffordshire recognises that its operations have an effect on the local, regional and global environment. As a community-based organisation working with groups and individuals, OUTSIDE / Support Staffordshire is keen to have a positive impact on the local environment and is committed to continuous improvements in environmental performance and the prevention of pollution. Environmental regulations, laws and codes of practice will be regarded as setting the minimum standards of environmental performance.

2. Objectives

At Support Staffordshire we will:

a) Use natural resources prudently and minimise the generation of waste.

b) Reduce the purchase and use of single-use plastic.

c) Increase awareness and understanding of environmental issues among staff, volunteers, service users and the wider community wherever there is an opportunity, encouraging recycling and other environmentally responsible behaviour and action.

d) Contribute to the protection and improvement of the built, historic and natural environment through the management of buildings owned or leased by Support Staffordshire and through the support given to voluntary and community groups on their relevant projects

e) Monitor, evaluate and constantly seek ways of improving our environmental performance.

3. Responsibility for Products

Wherever possible the organisation will consider the environmental impacts of the products it uses or purchases.

4. Resource Use

We will endeavour to conserve resources through efficient use and careful planning. This shall include seeking to reduce our energy and water usage.

5. Waste Management

We will minimise waste and, wherever possible re-use or recycle materials. Where we cannot, we will dispose of all waste through a registered waste collector in accordance with current government regulations. This will include compliance with the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) regulations.

6. Business Journeys

Staff will be encouraged to use public transport, whenever possible and practical, and also to car share when travelling on Support Staffordshire business.

7. Environmental Awareness

The Policy and accompanying guidelines will be disseminated to all current staff and volunteers and will also be included as part of the induction of new staff and volunteers. The Policy Statement will be displayed at all offices of the organisation.

8. Audit

The organisation will conduct a regular self-evaluation of our performance in implementing these principles and in complying with all applicable laws and regulations.

9. We will develop project specific environmental risk assessments.