Howe Keld Environmental Policy and Green Credentials

• To identify and monitor the significant impacts of our activities
• To set targets and objectives in order to reduce these environmental impacts and develop procedures to achieve them.
• To comply with relevant legislation and regulations relating to our environmental impact.
• To prevent pollution and minimise our consumption of utilities and resources. We endeavour to reduce carbon emissions, effluents and waste to disposal facilities and aim to recycle where possible
• To ensure that our environmental policy is communicated to all involved in Howe Keld. That contractors and suppliers are encouraged with responsible approaches to the environment, staff are trained and guests given appropriate information.
• To develop a responsible approach to sourcing food by supporting local, seasonal, organic and fairtrade overseas communities where practical.
• To work with national and local bodies in promoting issues with regards to the environment.
• To strive for continual improvement in our environmental performance.
• During our recent refurbishment, we have made every effort to install measures which reduce our environmental impacts. 

• A new gas condenser boiler has been installed offering much improved energy consumption
• Keycards are fitted to 80% of our rooms to extinguish lights on exit
• Energy saving light bulbs, spotlights and corridor lights have been installed in most fittings
• New kitchen appliances have been selected with energy efficiency in mind
• Individual thermostatic controls are fitted to all radiators
• We have a “use and hang” system regarding changing guest’s towels and use dryer balls in tumble dryers
• 90% of our toilets are dual flush
• Showers use thermostatic mixer valves and most are supplied by a newly installed pressure feed system. A secondary circulation system prevents water wastage caused by running taps unnecessarily while awaiting hot water
• Curtains are fully interfaced and lined
• Windows are either double glazed or traditional sash, refurbished and draft proofed to reduce heat loss

• We bulk buy where possible to reduce deliveries and packaging
• We purchase fairtrade tea, coffee etc. from a specialist food supplier
• We support local farms and businesses with high ethical practices regarding free range eggs, bacon, flour
• Much of our furniture is hand made by a local craftsman using only naturally felled local hardwoods
• Herdwick Carpets have been chosen because of their use of wool from the local Lakeland sheep breed
• Slate supplied by Kirkstone Slate Company and Blencathra Stoneware

• We do not use aerosol sprays
• We do not use individually wrapped portions in the dining room, e.g. cereals, jams, butters etc.
• All bathrooms are fitted with quality refillable shower gel, handcream and shampoo dispensers.
• We recycle all cartons, plastic, glass, paper and card.
• Paints are clay based, ammonia and formaldehyde free and low in volatile organic compounds.

Community and the Environment

• Keswick Fairtrade Initiative
• CBEN (Cumbria Business Environment Network)
• Tourism and Conservation Partnership
• Keswick Mountain Rescue Groups

• Energy Saving – Lights will automatically go out when you remove your key card but you can help by closing windows when the heating is on in your room and by turning radiators down while you are out.  Another idea is to turn off the heated towel rail once your towels are dry.
• Give the Car a Rest – Leave the car behind, if only for a day.  There are fantastic walks and cycling opportunities right outside the front door for all ages and abilities.  We have a file of walks and guides in Reception and are happy to make suggestions.  It’s easy and fun to return using either the buses or Keswick Launch.
• Use our Local Shops and Producers – Experience the true flavour and crafts of Cumbria by supporting our craftspeople and markets.  Ask us about our regional produce.
• Reduce, Reuse and Recycle – We make a tremendous effort to reduce, reuse and recycle at Howe Keld but please help us by saying no to over packaging, particularly shoe boxes, extra plastic bags and bottles.  Please separate recyclable items from your rubbish or ask us for more information.
• Water Wise – It is easy to forget water conservation in such a green and lush area as the Lake District but we are usually the first area to get hosepipe bans!  Please help by adhering to our towel policy and by using water wisely.
• Follow the Countryside Code – Help look after the wonderful Cumbrian countryside and wildlife by using footpaths and cycle ways responsibly.
• Make a £1 donation per person per stay – Help us support our chosen local conservation projects, red squirrels and ospreys.  We match donations from those of 3 nights’ stay or longer.

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