Arboretum declares ambitious sustainability pledges
The National Memorial Arboretum, within the National Forest in Staffordshire, has declared a 'national climate emergency' and has made four pledges on sustainability to help safeguard the 150-acre woodland and garden.
The sustainability pledges are part of the National Memorial Arboretum 's ambitious vision for modern Remembrance, launched to coincide with the 20th anniversary since the Arboretum opened to the public.
They include efforts to reduce the site 's carbon footprint, encourage the use of public transport, a commitment to be an ethical buyer and plans to work with partners to encourage sustainable living.
“Our pledges extend to all aspects of our operation, ” said Mark Ellis, heead of Visitor Experience at the National Memorial Arboretum. “We are committed to maintaining a first-class visitor experience while reducing our environmental impact and we know this is a priority for many of our visitors. ”
While the Arboretum 's Restaurant was closed due to coronavirus restrictions, the Foodservices team took the opportunity to start delivering on plans for a more sustainable food offering.
Since January, all disposable items and packaging are 100 per cent plastic free, biodegradable or will be responsibly recycled, as part of a vision for zero waste to landfill.
The menus have also been refreshed to offer more locally sourced and seasonal ingredients, a greater number of dishes feature plant-based options, and the team have developed food handling procedures to help meet a target of a 50% reduction in food-waste.
“We are acutely aware of the impact of climate change, having direct experience of extreme weather events in recent years, ” said Andy Ansell, head of Estates at the National Memorial Arboretum.
He added: “As we continue to nurture an inspirational, world-class setting, we will adopt and advocate for ethical and sustainable practices that ensure we have a positive impact on the natural environment.
"As custodians of a beautiful green space that is home to hundreds of memorials, we must embrace all opportunities for sustainable estate management, safeguarding this living memorial for future generations. ”
"This month, the Arboretum is participating in 'No Mow May ' across areas of the site, an initiative that allows grass and wildflowers to flourish, providing habitats and forage for early season pollinators.
"The decision was welcomed by Master Beekeeper Stuart Roberts who has kept bees at the site since 2011."
The Arboretum 's declaration of a climate emergency and accompanying sustainability pledges have been welcomed by the National Forest Company, which launched their 'Greenprint Vision ' in 2019 which set out a template to address the environmental, social and economic challenges resulting from climate change.
Pictured: The Arboretum, adjacent to the River Tame and Trent, which is prone to flooding and droughts