Environmental features

1. Numerous energy efficiency measures and renewable energy systems including wind turbine, PV panels, solar hot water systems (2) and wood burning stoves. Total energy consumption has fallen from 120.000kWhs pa to <70.000kWhs in six years.

2. From Feb 2006 will have low flush (4 litre) toilets and a rainharvesting system to collect grey water for toilets. This complements the earlier installation of a reed bed treatment plant in 2000.

3. A target of 50% of all waste to be recycled, either on site via composting or via local authority doorstep collection. Target met for the first time in 2005.

4. Extensive on site environmental education and interpretation including activity packages for schools and initiatives such as ‘Good Guest Cards’ environmental awareness points and touch screen computer resource centre in lounge.

5. Langdon Beck expects to be the first UK establishment to achieve the Eco Flower award for tourism, and has provided the model for YHA’s ‘Green Beacon’ concept.

6. Catering and bar operation now increasingly using local and organic produce. All wine exclusively organic with beer either local or organic. Also selling gift items made from recycled material such as elephants made from tin cans and chickens made from carrier bags.