Published
By Emily Richards
1. Introduction
At Becky Falls Ancient Woodland Park, sustainability is central to everything we do. As caretakers of a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and proud members of the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA), we are deeply committed to minimising our environmental impact, protecting the natural world, and inspiring others to do the same.
We define sustainability as meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own — and we aim to lead by example in our operations, visitor engagement, and conservation work.
2. Our Commitment
We are committed to improving sustainability in all areas of our site through responsible energy use, waste management, pollution prevention, education, and community involvement.
Our approach includes:
Zero to landfill – with the help of Devon Contract Waste we are proud to be a Zero to Landfill Site
Providing clearly labelled waste separation bins for visitors, helping them to recycle responsibly while on site.
Using hydroelectric power to generate the majority of our electricity on-site.
Only using eco-friendly, biodegradable cleaning chemicals, due to our location on a septic tank and sensitive natural habitat.
Minimising the use of single-use plastics throughout the park, café, and shop.
Prioritising local and sustainable suppliers where possible and keeping deliveries to a minimum.
3. SMART Sustainability Objectives
Objective | Measure | Achievable | Relevant | Time-Bound |
Create and install a ‘Sustainability at Becky Falls’ visitor board or signage | Display with QR to learn more | Design and print internally or via a local provider | Public-facing transparency and education | Launch by Summer 2026 |
Add sustainability element to all new staff inductions | Track staff induction completion records | As simple 10-minute add-on | Strengthens internal engagement | In place by Feb 2026 |
Create a conservation and sustainability education trail for families | Visitor feedback | Designed using existing signage resources | Increases public understanding and awareness | Launch by Summer 2027 |
Maintain Zero to Landfill status | Ensure 100% of Becky Falls’ waste continues to be diverted from landfill through our contract with Devon Contract Waste. Monthly invoices will confirm compliance. | We are already achieving this and have systems in place with Devon Contract Waste. | Supports sustainability goals and Becky Falls’ environmental commitments. | Ongoing |
Reduce the use of single-use plastic bin liners by reusing bags where possible and consolidating waste into fewer liners. | Track the number of bin liners purchased each year, aiming for a 15% reduction. | This approach is practical and should result in a measurable decrease in the number of bin liners used. | Supports Becky Falls’ sustainability goals and environmental commitments by reducing single-use plastic consumption. | Baseline measurement to be taken at park closure on 2nd November 2025, with a 15% reduction target to be achieved by the end of the 2026 season. |
Increase sales of Becky Falls’ branded bamboo reusable cups by enhancing incentives and signage. | Track number of reusable cups sold in 2025 as a baseline and compare to sales in 2026 to assess growth. | Update café signage to highlight environmental benefits (“Save money & the planet” — get your first drink free with our reusable cup”) and add a 20p discount on refills after the first free fill. Café signage can be amended in-house, and the discount structure is simple to implement. | Supports Becky Falls’ sustainability goals by reducing single-use cups and engaging visitors in eco-friendly practices. | Implement signage and incentive changes for the 2026 season and review sales data at the end of the season. |
4. Staff and Visitor Engagement
All team members receive training on our environmental practices, including proper waste disposal, chemical handling, and energy efficiency.
Visitors are supported in reducing their environmental impact via:
Clear signage and recycling bins for waste separation
Interpretive signage and talks about sustainable behaviour
Encouragement to bring reusable bottles, bags, and containers
Our educational programmes and daily talks promote nature conservation and sustainability tips that guests can apply in their own homes and communities.
5. Monitoring and Review
Our sustainability objectives will be monitored and reviewed annually by the management team.
Progress will be tracked using waste data, purchasing records, and visitor/staff feedback.
We are committed to adapting our policy as needed to reflect best practices, innovations, and changes in environmental standards.
6. Future Areas for Development
Exploring carbon offset initiatives for travel and deliveries.
Further developing onsite composting options for organic waste.
Conclusion
Becky Falls is proud to take real, measurable steps toward sustainability — and we invite every visitor, staff member, and partner to join us in protecting the environment for generations to come. Through responsible operations, education, and engagement, we continue to build a greener, cleaner future.
If you have any questions ahead of your visit please don't hesitate to get in touch.
Running wild since 1903
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