Environmental Policy
Objectives of this policy
The objective of this policy is to state that Vine Housing Co-operative is committed to:
- Enable members to reduce the running costs of their homes
- Continuously seek to improve environmental performance, reduce pollution and waste
- Reduce the dependence on non-renewable resources (raw materials, energy and supplies)
- Promote the re-use and recycling of materials and resources
- Raise awareness and encourage participation of members in environmental matters
- Expect similar environmental standards from all suppliers and contractors
- Liaise with the local community and participate in discussions about environmental issues.
Why an Environmental Policy?
Improving environmental performance can result in benefits to members and workers. Members may benefit from energy and water savings, and an improved quality of life. For the Co-op it can provide financial savings, reduce maintenance costs and raise our profile in the community.
This policy will lead to an environmental action plan, which will enable us to prioritise and focus on our plans, and may help to meet Housing Corporation requirements, such as alleviating fuel poverty.
How will this policy be put into action?
This policy will be implemented by an environmental plan, covering a five-year period that will:
- Review the use of resources in our housing, and the office
- Consider how these can be reduced or replaced
- Support the efficient use of water and energy
- Aim to minimise waste
- Develop the use of renewable resources and products (such as the use of timber from sustainable forests)
- Promote research into environmental issues affecting housing, and share information
- Champion the use of new energy saving alternatives (such as wind and solar)
- Provide advice, training and guidance for members and workers
In developing the environmental plan, Vine Co-op will always consider the need to:
- Provide value for money in housing
- Respect the independence of the individual and their own lifestyle
The environmental plan will be implemented in consultation with the Management Committee (MC), workers and members. An annual report will be submitted to the MC and GM, setting out progress, and putting forward priorities for the future.
How will we review this policy?
This policy will be reviewed on an annual basis and may be revised accordingly.