Our team have been busy delivering on our climate pledges since last year, with some accomplished and others still working on, it's safe to say we are one step forward to a more sustainable future.
Our pledges were never about giving things up but about gaining a new perspective on achieving our goals more thoughtfully and sustainably, without overconsumption. Since last year, we found that changing our usual habits actually improved our daily lives.
We have:
This has shifted our mindset, showing us what we can achieve through small, meaningful changes.
Jake Haylett, our Digital Content Officer, is thrilled with how he achieved his sustainable goal: "Last year, I pledged to make my garden more wildlife friendly. I have now planted a range of flowering perennials such as lavender, sweet peas and buddleias that attract bees and other insects due their pollen. I also planted a cherry tree over winter and am looking forward to seeing this blossoming.
"This year I will fill the gaps with marigolds, nasturtiums and calendars. I have also used fallen leaves and grass clippings as a mulch and started a compost bin to make use of the natural resources around me."
Our team are committed to create a healthier planet for a more sustainable future and our climate pledges are just one of the ways we aim to do this.
Lucy Playford, our Marketing Manager, is also content with her achievements: "Last year, my pledge was to wear clothes for longer to help reduce carbon pollution. I definitely shopped less at “disposable fashion” stores and made more considered choices overall. I also set myself the goal of not buying any new shoes or boots – and I’m pleased to say I actually managed to stick to that one!
"I won’t pretend I’ve been perfect and there have definitely been a few slip‑ups along the way, but I’ve been much more mindful about buying fewer items and choosing things that should last longer than fast‑fashion alternatives.
"I’m hoping to keep this going into next year too, even though summer clothes always test my willpower a bit more..."
In the coming months, we will continue progressing towards lower-carbon lifestyles and being more mindful of resource overuse. We will continue to stay active in ways that are good for the planet, like walking, cycling, and using sustainable facilities. This ensures a long-term positive impact on our health and the environment.
Amber Bakin, our Marketing Officer, has also achieved her pledge buying less fast fashion and more second-hand clothes.
I am so proud to say my wardrobe is now 50% more sustainable!
Each pledge our team made (and will continue to make) is unique, ensuring a varied approach to our climate actions and sustainability across different areas.
Tony Forrester, our Head of Programmes and Projects, reflects on his commitment and the positive outcomes he now embraces: "I successfully completed my pledge of two meat-free days each week. It was easier than expected, and I enjoyed trying a wider range of foods. It also helped me see how a vegetarian diet can be both healthier and more varied."
Ian Spencer, our Development Manager; Disability & Long Term Health Conditions, has not only grown fresh, pesticide-free food but has also saved money and fuel by being able to harvest it for free.
Ian is delighted having grown fresh food in his garden over summer: "I grew strawberries and a herb garden, plus I planted an apple tree!"
Our team are delighted with our sustainable efforts over the year and we will continue to build on this while we embark on our own personal climate journeys.
We have now renewed our pledges which we will aim to accomplish over this year. Take a look at our new pledges here.
