Sustainability Policy

Published

By Emily Richards

Becky Falls Ancient Woodland Park Limited                                         

Sustainability Policy

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.

Get in touch

If you have any questions ahead of your visit please don't hesitate to get in touch.

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