Environmental Responsibility
Energy Efficiency
We actively manage energy across our hotel to reduce our carbon footprint:
- LED lighting throughout all bedrooms and communal areas
- Sensor lighting in corridors and shared spaces
- Smart radiators controlled via an app for optimal efficiency
- Regular maintenance of all equipment to keep everything running efficiently
- Frequent defrosting of freezers and replacing appliances with energy-saving models
- Staff reminders and signage encouraging everyone to switch off lights and appliances when not in use
- Introducing induction cooking equipment in our kitchen to reduce energy use
Water Conservation
We take water conservation seriously:
- Many guest bathrooms have dual-flush systems
- Urinals fitted with flush sensors
- Leaks or dripping taps are treated as a priority
- You’ll notice signs in the bathrooms encouraging towel reuse
Waste Reduction & Recycling
We aim to reduce waste and recycle wherever possible:
- Recycling of paper, plastics, batteries, printer cartridges, glass and electrical items in our offices
- Used cooking oil collected and turned into biodiesel
- Reducing kitchen food waste through careful menu planning and stock management
- Bulk-buying where possible to cut down on packaging and transport emissions
- Working with Biffa to manage waste responsibly
- Keeping staff informed about waste management regulations and updates
Sustainable Purchasing & Local Partnerships
We love working with suppliers who share our values:
- We source from local suppliers wherever we can
- Fresh, seasonal, locally sourced ingredients feature across our menus
- Eco-friendly cleaning products are used throughout the hotel
- We use specialist procurement software to help find sustainable, local suppliers
Protecting Nature
Even in the heart of Colchester, our green hotel supports biodiversity and creates peaceful, sustainable green spaces:
- Our gardens and hanging baskets feature pollinator-friendly flowers
- We don’t use pesticides that could harm wildlife
- Garden furniture and structures are made from sustainable materials such as wood and wicker
Community & Culture
We care about Colchester and our local community:
- We promote local attractions and events via our social channels, website, guest directory and newsletters
- We work with Heritage Colchester to ensure our staff know the area and can help guests discover it
- We support local charities and community causes throughout the year
Staff Wellbeing, Training & Inclusion
Our people are at the heart of everything we do:
- All staff receive training on sustainability, diversity and human trafficking awareness (via Essex Police)
- Ongoing food hygiene, safety and COSHH training is provided
- We encourage open dialogue with our team to continually improve ethical and sustainable practices
Continuous Improvement
Sustainability is a journey and we’re committed to getting better every day:
- We monitor our impact and set annual goals for improvement
- We provide training so our team understand and support our sustainability efforts
- We listen to guest feedback and welcome ideas to help us do better
