Organic Combermere – A Look Into Our Sustainability Policies
Sustainability - 18.09.23
At Combermere Abbey, nature’s beauty meets sustainable living.
We honour a commitment to preserving and nurturing our environment for future generations and implement a range of policies to foster a more present sustainable community here. In celebration of Organic September, we wanted to take you through some of the things we do here to achieve all of that!
Balancing Tourism and Sustainability
We understand the delicate balance between visitor-based tourism and our responsibility to reduce our carbon footprint. Striving to harmonise both, our team works tirelessly to ensure the responsible use of energy, water, and materials while exceeding the quality expectations of our guests.
Our dedication to sustainability is exemplified by our membership in the Green Tourism Business Scheme, where we proudly hold a GOLD standard rating. We also collaborate with like-minded organisations such as EASCO, PASC, CLA, and the Tourism Alliance, all of which adhere to the GTBS code of practice.
Innovative Energy Solutions
Efficient energy management is at the heart of our sustainability efforts at Combermere. We minimise energy consumption across all our operations, promoting responsible energy use always. Our commitment to sustainable practices can be seen in every corner of the estate. The abbey’s restored North Wing showcases some cutting-edge water-source energy systems, superior insulation, and energy-efficient lighting and heating. Moreover, all of our estate cottages have received improved insulation, thanks to our ongoing upgrade program. We made history as the first estate in Cheshire to install a solar park. This renewable energy source now powers up to 3,000 homes through its connection to the grid, a testament to our dedication to sustainable energy solutions.
Sustainable Infrastructure Improvements
To improve the energy efficiency of our listed buildings on the estate, we’ve introduced secondary glazing and enhanced loft insulation with natural products to reduce energy consumption and lower our carbon footprint, all while preserving the historical charm of our estate.
Green Procurement and Waste Reduction
We adopt a “green procurement” policy, which means we prioritise purchasing environmentally friendly products and support local suppliers, artists, and retailers. Whenever possible, we also incorporate organic and fairtrade products into our operations.
To reduce waste at Combermere, we actively recycle paper, cardboard, plastic, and glass. We opt for environmentally friendly cleaning products and use microfibre cloths that minimise the need for additional cleaning agents. Additionally, we reduce water and detergent consumption by washing bed linens and towels at a local laundrette, not changing them daily and only upon guests’ request.
Our commitment to sustainability even extends to our marketing materials and office practices too! We use recycled or sustainably sourced paper in our writing paper, and we recycle all of our office equipment. Our centralised ordering system further minimises our environmental impact.
Growing Trees for the Future
We promote a policy of sustainable regeneration of the trees on our estate; we undertake annual safety checks on trees viewed and enjoyed by our guests and visiting public, we fell and replace ill and diseased specimens and actively plant new areas as part of our ongoing forestry planning. Our commitment to organic land management promotes bringing on young trees from the ancients, collecting from healthy specimens, with young whips planted in spaces left by fallen or windblown trees. We understand that many tree species are at risk today, and estates like ours serve as vital nurseries for the future. We have a wonderful ‘Bridal Grove’ initiative, where every couple who chooses to tie the knot at the abbey has the unique gift of a tree planted in celebration. This not only symbolizes their love but also contributes vital carbon capture. It’s a meaningful way for couples to begin their journey together while fostering a greener future and returning couples can walk past them on future visits.
Harvesting Natural Resources
Our commitment to the environment extends to the abbey’s water resources too. We collect rain and greywater for recycling in the Glasshouse, our restored greenhouse and wedding venue. Additionally, we established a reed bed sewage system some 30 years ago, even before his Majesty installed one at Highgrove!! We’re also actively involved in projects with Natural England, including the HLS scheme, SSSI monitoring, wildfowl counts, and water quality monitoring to name just a few!
Connecting Guests with Nature
We encourage our guests to immerse themselves in the estate’s natural beauty. Each cottage includes a “Blue Book” filled with information about local walks, cycle routes, dining options, markets, and festivals. We encourage guests to bring binoculars and note the large range of wildfowl and birdlife at Combermere.
We’re not just an estate; we’re an integral part of the local community. Combermere Abbey hosts tours, collaborates with countryside and environmental groups, and participates in annual flora and wildfowl counts. We work closely with our local agricultural college to offer specific training courses and supply logs for fires and wood-burning stoves from our estate.
Local and Homegrown Goodness
Finally, we take immense pride in providing our guests with locally sourced and homegrown produce. From the food hampers in our (link to the holiday cottages) cottages to the home-cooked breakfasts in the North Wing B&B, from local, independent producers. This not only ensures the freshest products but also significantly reduces our environmental impact by eliminating the need for long-distance transportation.
Plans for the future
At Combermere Abbey, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a way of life. It has been for a very long time. Our unwavering commitment to the environment, our local community, and responsible tourism is a testament to our enduring dedication to a greener, more sustainable future for all. When you visit us, you’re not just enjoying history; you’re supporting a vision of a harmonious and environmentally conscious future. To read more about our sustainability practises this Organic September, head to our dedicated webpage.