Climate Policy

Our Environmental Responsibilities

September 2024

Gravesham Friendly recognises the importance of environmental legislation (Environmental Act 2021), irrespective of how small the impact of our activities on the environment. The need to constantly consider ways in which we can conserve energy, use recycling and minimise waste in activities we undertake. The Climate Change policy is defined by the Board and the Management team of the Society and provides the framework for setting and reviewing environmental objectives and targets.

Gravesham Friendly has a Climate Change Policy (which is available upon request). This policy is communicated to all persons working for or on behalf of the Society. Gravesham Friendly is also a mutual insurer and seeks to operate in an ethical manner and therefore recognises it should contribute to the greater good of Society by mitigating its own impact on the climate and the natural environment.

Gravesham Friendly actively acknowledges responsibility to protecting the environment, from the projects and campaigns to our procedures within the office. We remain committed to reducing our impact upon the environment in the following ways:

Waste Management

It is our policy to work with our staff and suppliers to ensure that all waste is disposed of in line with legal and environmental requirements.

Recycling and use of Recycling Materials

To utilise, and promote the use of, recycled materials whenever possible, ensuring that materials are disposed of in an environmentally safe manner at the end of their useful life.

Energy Conservation

To manage electricity, water and gas supplies to ensure minimum consumption through energy efficient initiatives. It is our policy to make efficient use of natural light within our office and to conserve energy by adopting an ‘only turn on when using’ approach to equipment. We also endeavour to screen suppliers to ensure that materials provided by third parties adhere to green credentials.

Environmental Management Awareness

To raise and maintain a high level of understanding of, and participation in, environmental best practices by staff and suppliers. Environmental objectives and targets are reviewed periodically by our “Climate Change Champion” based in our Office.

Pollution

Gravesham Friendly is committed to the continual improvement and the prevention of pollution and will remain committed to this objective.

Governance

To ensure the organisation maintains its awareness for continuous improvement, the environmental management system is regularly reviewed.

The Climate Change Policy is reviewed by the Management team on an annual basis.