Environmental Policy
Committed to caring for and protecting the sector in which we operate, we work hard to reduce our environmental impact.
Exceeding legislative requirements
With a dedicated programme of continuous improvement and an environmental management system that is updated annually, we aim to deliver current and future legislative requirements effectively – ahead of the required deadlines, where possible.
Supporting best practice throughout Earley Ornamentals, we are active members of the Horticultural Trade Association (HTA), Ornamental Horticulture Assurance Scheme (OHAS) and British Protected Ornamentals Association (BPOA).
Putting energy first
Our biomass heating system is an example of our investment in the latest heating technology. It delivers our energy requirements and gives us the opportunity to save 664 tonnes of CO² each year.
To minimise supply miles, the wood chips are sourced from a local supplier employing the philosophy that good wood means good heat.
Keeping energy and water usage low too, the conservation and efficient use of our facilities is an important part of our greenhouse operation.
We do this by:
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reducing air leaks
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double covering
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installing energy-conserving curtains
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incorporating foundation and sidewall insulation
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controlled and targeted irrigation
As committed as we are, our plastic tray supplier HerkuPlast GmbH, produces the energy needed to manufacture its trays through renewable solar energy.
What’s more, their raw materials come from first-class, high quality recycled sources and, at the end of the products’ lifetime, the trays can be recycled and used in the production of the recycled film.
Growing for the environment
Mindful of both the environment and the changing climate, we ensure our extensive range offers young plants that are weather tolerant as well as those that attract wildlife.
The Butterfly symbol in our catalogues flags up growing options that are Beneficial for Wildlife.
Reduced-peat
Our current growing media is a reduced-peat mix of 65% RPP (Responsibly Produced Peat) and 35% clay/coco.
We are collaborating with our supplier to identify further peat reduction opportunities.
Responsible purchasing and recycling
If possible, we purchase products and services that cause minimal damage to the environment and recycle where we can to prevent waste.
Considered transport management
Our delivery vehicles are maintained to optimise fuel usage and reduce emission levels.
We route plan efficiently with optimised loads, and our drivers are trained to a high standard to ensure fuel efficiency.
Avoiding waste through community support
We hate waste and our policy is to grow to demand through our pre-order system.
Occasionally, there are overs, so we work with local charities and community groups to turn our trash into someone else’s treasure.
As often as possible, we contribute young plants to a local charity that offers horticulture training to adults with learning and other disabilities, as well as other local organisations and charities.
Local employer
Where we are able, we employ people who live as close to the nursery as possible. This both supports our rural community and economy and limits commuting miles.
If you’d like to know more about our Environmental Policy, please contact us.
Click here to download the Earley Ornamentals Environmental Policy leaflet
