Ethical and Environmental Policy

Aswell as our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy, we also have a strong environmental policy.

Connected In Nature CIC is committed to environmental stewardship, sustainability, and responsible land use. We integrate the ethics of Permaculture—Earth Care, People Care, and Fair Share—into all our activities, ensuring that our work respects and enhances the natural world.

Permaculture Ethics

Earth Care: Protecting and regenerating natural ecosystems, reducing waste, using resources responsibly.
People Care: Ensuring that our activities are inclusive and that they nurture and support individuals and communities.
Fair Share: Practising equity by sharing resources, minimising consumption, and promoting sustainability in all aspects of our operations. Taking into account the other animals in our environment.
Future Care: Being mindful of future generations and instilling a practice of ‘sewing seeds for the future’ both metaphorically and literally, such as planting trees for future generations.

Sustainability Commitments

We are dedicated to minimising our environmental impact by:

Using sustainable materials, reducing waste and handling waste responsibly.
Implementing energy-efficient practices in our operations.
Encouraging biodiversity and protecting wildlife habitats.
Minimising our impact on any areas of land we work with e.g. keeping groups small and aiming to be on one piece of land for no more than 3 days a week.
Promoting sustainable transport options such as car shares.
Educating participants on environmental responsibility.
Partnering with ethical and sustainable suppliers and organisations

Leave No Trace Principles As part of our commitment to responsible outdoor practices, we adhere to the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace:

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare: Ensure all activities are well-planned to minimise environmental impact.

2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Use designated trails and campsites to protect sensitive ecosystems.

3. Dispose of Waste Properly: Follow a strict ‘pack in, pack out’ policy, ensuring all waste is removed responsibly.

4. Leave What You Find: Preserve natural and cultural heritage by avoiding damage or removal of any objects.

5. Minimise Campfire Impact: Use sustainable fuel sources and adhere to fire safety guidelines.

6. Respect Wildlife: Observe animals from a distance and avoid disturbing their natural behaviours.

7. Be Considerate of Others: Maintain quiet, respect fellow users, and promote a positive outdoor experience for all.

Implementation and Review

Staff, volunteers, and participants will receive training on environmental sustainability and best practices.
We will continuously assess our environmental impact and seek ways to improve.
This policy will be reviewed annually and updated in line with best practices and new sustainability developments.

Cross ref: Dispose of business or commercial waste: Your responsibilities - GOV.UK

Signed: V Clark (Victoria Clark) [Director/Responsible Person] Date: [Date] May 2025