Sustainability
Our aim is to provide guests with an exceptional experience and lasting memories of their stay while operating a sustainable holiday home, prioritising responsible and positive practices.
We regularly review our practices to minimise waste, improve energy efficiency, reduce environmental impact, increase biodiversity and support the local area.
Environmental
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The cabin is highly thermally insulated with the timber frame sourced and manufactured by Norscot Joinery Ltd. Caithness, Scotland.
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The timber cladding is Scottish larch locally sourced from Cromartie Timber Strathpeffer Ross shire, Scotland.
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Environmental Impact rating B (91).
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The wood stove is a Charnwood Aire 5 made from British steel and is super efficient 84% rated.
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The stove is fitted with a rear heat shield which directs heat back into the room.
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A stove thermometer is fitted to accurately monitor temperature, allowing wood to burn efficiently, while reducing emissions and maximise heat output.
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The stove is regularly maintained to keep it efficient.
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Detailed instructions are available for guests on how to use the stove and wood efficiently.
Carbon and energy
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Solar panels on the roof generate electricity with surplus energy supplied back to the main power grid.
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We record and monitor energy use.
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The cabin is on a 100% renewable tariff.
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EPC rating B (89).
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All windows and doors are double glazed.
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Timber for the wood stove is responsibly sourced, air dried for at least 12 months, with a moisture content of less than 20% leading to higher burn efficiency.
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Future timber stocks are being grown on the property.
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Thermostats turn off the underfloor heating when not required.
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Light bulbs are 100% LED.
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The cabin has a dedicated 13amp external socket for EV charging.
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There is a clothesline for drying laundry outside.
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Sun coming through the living room windows can be screened with blinds.
Community, equality, diversity and inclusion
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We contribute to The Woodland Trust who have a project in the area, creating natural regeneration and new native planting at Beinn Shieldaig a Caledonian pine forest, part of Scotlands rainforest.
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We support Blytheswood Charity with regular donations to their organisation.
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We share details of local businesses to allow our guests to support the local economy.
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We have a policy of treating guests equally and we do not discriminate.
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Adaptations have been installed to assist people with physical disabilities.
Food and water
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All our welcome hamper food and drink is sourced and made in Scotland.
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Where possible we buy Fair Trade products for guests eg. tea and coffee.
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Most items are vegetarian or vegan friendly.
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Appliances and pipes are checked and maintained to ensure efficiency.
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Taps have water flow restrictors.
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The dishwasher defaults to eco programme to minimise water use.
Waste, recycling and cleaning
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Systems are in place and information is available to guests for sorting and recycling waste.
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We minimise use of single use items.
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Food waste is composted on site.
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Kitchen cleaning cloths, sponges and bin bags are all biodegradable/compostable.
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All laundry is carried out on site.
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Toiletries and cleaning products are bought in bulk to refill smaller bottles to reduce waste.
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The toilet has a dual flush.
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A self contained drainage system processes waste water and sewage, this discharges harmlessly through a soak away system.
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Toilet paper and kitchen roll is sustainably sourced and plastic free.
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Cleaning products are free from phosphates, free from chlorine and eco friendly.
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Toiletries for guests are organic/eco friendly and made in the Highlands of Scotland.
Biodiversity
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We have undertaken planting and maintenance on the property to encourage wildlife, along with habitat and refuge creation. Examples include:
