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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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 to reduce emissions.
Carbon and energy
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Solar panels on the roof generate electricity with surplus energy supplied back to the main power grid. On average per year 1500kWh are produced by the solar panels. 5,371kWh have been generated to date February 2026.
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We measure and monitor energy use and our carbon footprint.
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The cabin is on a 100% renewable electricity tariff with Eon Next.
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We do not use gas anywhere at Birch Grove.
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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 & 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 the Wester Ross Biosphere, a community led charity connecting people and nature across 5,000 square km of iconic Highland landscape.
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We support Blytheswood Charity with regular donations to their organisation.
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We support the RSPB for the conservation of birds and nature.
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We help with beach cleans locally and supply data to the Marine Conservation Society.
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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. Our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion policy is here.
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Adaptations have been installed to assist people with physical disabilities. Accessibility guide here.
Food & water
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All our welcome hamper food and drink is sourced and made in Scotland.
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We make all our own bread and shortbread biscuits for our guests welcome hampers.
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Where possible we buy Fair Trade and Rainforest Alliance products for guests eg. tea, coffee and hot chocolate.
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Most of the items we provide guests are vegetarian or vegan friendly.
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Appliances and water 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 & cleaning
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Systems are in place and information is available to guests for sorting and recycling waste.
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Single use items are minimised.
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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 by ourselves.
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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 6/3 litre dual flush, water saving design.
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A self contained drainage system (Klargester BioDisc) processes waste water and sewage, meeting strict environmental standards. Suitable for sensitive sites such as Birch Grove.
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Toilet paper and kitchen roll is made from bamboo, sustainably sourced and plastic free.
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Cleaning products from Ecover and Method, are free from phosphates, free from chlorine and eco friendly.
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Toiletries for guests are from The Highland Soap Company, 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:
