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Sustainability

Updated: 4 days ago



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


  • The cabin is highly thermally insulated with the timber frame sourced and manufactured by Norscot Joinery Ltd. Caithness, Scotland.

  • The timber cladding is Scottish larch sourced from Cromartie Timber Strathpeffer Ross shire.

  • Environmental Impact rating B (91).

  • The wood stove is a Charnwood Aire 5 made from British steel and is super efficient 84% rated.

  • The stove is fitted with a rear heat shield which directs heat back into the room.

  • A stove thermometer is fitted to accurately monitor temperature, allowing wood to burn efficiently, while reducing emissions and maximise heat output.

  • The stove is regularly maintained to keep it efficient.

  • Detailed instructions are available for guests on how to use the stove and wood efficiently.



Carbon/Energy


  • Solar panels on the roof generate electricity with surplus energy supplied back to the main power grid.

  • We record and monitor energy use.

  • The cabin is on a 100% renewable tariff.

  • EPC rating B (89).

  • All windows and doors are double glazed.

  • 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.

  • Future timber stocks are being grown on the property.

  • Thermostats turn off the underfloor heating when not required.

  • Light bulbs are 100% LED.

  • The cabin has a dedicated 13amp external socket for EV charging.

  • There is a clothesline for dry laundry outside.

  • Sun coming through the living room windows can be screened with blinds.



Community


  • 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.

  • We support Blytheswood Charity with regular donations to their organisation.

  • We share details of local businesses to allow our guests to support the local economy.



Equality Diversity and Inclusion


  • We have a policy of treating guests equally and we do not discriminate.

  • Adaptations have been installed to assist people with physical disabilities.



Food


  • All our welcome hamper food and drink is sourced and made in Scotland.

  • Where possible we buy Fair Trade products for guests eg. tea and coffee.

  • Most items are vegetarian or vegan friendly.



Water


  • Appliances and pipes are checked and maintained to ensure efficiency.

  • Taps have water flow restrictors.

  • The toilet has a dual flush.

  • The dishwasher defaults to eco programme to minimise water use.

  • A self contained drainage system processes waste water and sewage, this discharges harmlessly through a soak away system.



Waste


  • Systems are in place and information is available to guests for sorting and recycling waste.

  • We minimise use of single use items.

  • Food waste is composted on site.

  • Cleaning cloths, sponges and bin bags are all biodegradable/compostable.

  • Toiletries and cleaning products are bought in bulk to refill smaller bottles to reduce waste.

  • Toilet paper and kitchen roll is sustainably sourced and plastic free.



Chemicals


  • Cleaning products are free from phosphates, free from chlorine and eco friendly.

  • Toiletries for guests are organic/eco friendly and made in the Highlands of Scotland.



Biodiversity



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