Environmental Policy

1. Statement of Intent

The Carers Social Group, Greenwich recognises that its activities have an impact on the environment and is committed to minimising this impact wherever reasonably practicable.

As a community group supporting carers, we aim to operate in a way that promotes environmental sustainability, reduces waste and contributes positively to our local community.

Environmental policies are widely recognised as a formal commitment to understand and reduce organisational environmental impact .

The Carers Social Group is a member of Greener Greenwich Community Network. This is a non-political organisation aiming for a healthier, cleaner and greener environment for Greenwich residents.

2. Aims

We aim to:

  • Reduce our environmental footprint

  • Promote sustainable practices among members, volunteers and partners

  • Comply with all relevant environmental legislation and good practice

  • Encourage awareness of environmental issues within our community

3. Key Principles

3.1 Waste Reduction

We will follow the waste hierarchy by:

  • Reducing waste wherever possible

  • Reusing materials where practical

  • Recycling materials appropriately

  • Disposing of waste responsibly

3.2 Energy and Resource Use

We will:

  • Minimise energy use at meetings and events

  • Switch off lights and equipment when not in use

  • Use energy-efficient appliances where possible

  • Reduce water consumption

3.3 Sustainable Purchasing

We will:

  • Purchase environmentally friendly, recycled or reusable products where feasible

  • Avoid single-use plastics where possible

  • Use digital communication instead of printing wherever practical alongside printed literature which is essential for those who are digitally excluded.

3.4 Travel and Transport

We will:

  • Encourage the use of public transport, walking, cycling and car-sharing

  • Use online meetings where appropriate to reduce travel except where it conflicts with our aim to bring people together in person for better mental and physical health

3.5 Events and Activities

For group activities and events, we will:

  • Minimise waste and encourage recycling

  • Use reusable cups, plates, cutlery and materials where possible and if not use compostable/biodegradable alternatives.

4. Compliance and Responsibility

Carers Social Greenwich will:

  • Comply with relevant UK environmental legislation, including waste duty of care requirements

  • Work with suppliers and partners who share our environmental values as far as possible.

5. Implementation

  • This policy will be shared with all members through our website

  • Environmental considerations will be included in planning activities

6. Monitoring and Review

  • This policy will be reviewed annually

  • Feedback from members will be used to improve our environmental practices

  • We will aim for continuous improvement in sustainability

7. Approval

This policy was approved by the CSG committee on 21 April 2026 and will be reviewed next on 21 April 2028