Our Nature Positive and Environmental Charter

The North Devon UNESCO Biosphere is a globally recognised area of outstanding natural and cultural heritage, a living example of how people and nature can thrive together. At its heart lies a commitment to sustainable development, conservation, and learning—values that guide everything we do. Today, the urgency of environmental challenges demands bold action. Climate change, biodiversity loss, and resource depletion threaten the very landscapes and communities we cherish. We believe that leadership starts with responsibility, and responsibility begins with us.

Nature is not just part of our work—it is our reason for being. With the launch of our new 10-year North Devon UNESCO Biosphere Strategy, we are committed to leading by example. If we ask our region to embrace sustainability and nature-positive action, we must “walk the walk” ourselves.
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This Nature Positive and Environmental Charter sets out our vision to embed sustainability into every aspect of our operations. It is more than a policy—it is a promise to protect, restore, and regenerate the natural world while inspiring others to join us. Our goal is simple yet profound: to reduce our environmental impact, enhance ecological resilience, and create a culture where sustainability is second nature.

We will measure and reduce our carbon footprint, champion nature-based solutions, and support biodiversity net gain. From minimising waste and water use to promoting low-carbon transport and digital efficiency, every decision we make will reflect our commitment to a healthier planet. We will empower staff, volunteers, and partners to lead change, celebrate innovation, and share best practices across the Biosphere and beyond.

​This Charter applies to everyone who works with us—employees, volunteers, trustees, contractors, and suppliers. Together, we will turn ambition into action, ensuring that our work today safeguards the future for generations to come.

The North Devon Biosphere Foundation is proud to lead by example. By working collaboratively and thinking creatively, we can protect the natural beauty and biodiversity of North Devon while building a thriving, sustainable community.

​Nature is our purpose—and our promise.

Broadsands Beach

Our Commitments

1 – Eliminate Carbon and other greenhouse gas emissions

We’re taking bold action for the planet. Starting in 2027, we’ll measure and share our carbon footprint, offset what we can’t eliminate, and stay transparent. Our ultimate goal: achieve net zero carbon by 2030.

2 – Nature

​Our mission is to protect and enhance nature while promoting climate action and biodiversity. We will support nature-based solutions such as tree planting and habitat restoration, and engage in climate adaptation planning. Staff will use Ecosia as the default browser to contribute to global tree planting. We actively support biodiversity net gain projects, minimise ecological disturbance during fieldwork and events, and promote biodiversity awareness among staff and stakeholders, ensuring nature remains at the heart of all we do.

3 – Control Waste

​We are committed to reducing waste in line with the Waste Hierarchy: eliminate unnecessary consumption, reduce purchases, reuse materials, recycle effectively, and dispose responsibly. 

We prioritise products with minimal packaging seek to actively eliminate single-use plastics, and ensure responsible recycling of ICT equipment while minimising our digital carbon footprint through efficient data storage and cloud services. 

Paper use is reduced through digital communication and documentation; when printing is essential, we use recycled or FSC-certified paper and promote double-sided printing. 

4 – Pollution

​We are committed to preventing pollution and monitoring the environmental impact of our operations. Robust systems and procedures will be implemented to manage hazardous materials responsibly and ensure compliance with waste disposal regulations. Appropriate emergency measures and controls will be in place to respond effectively should pollution occur.

5 – Educate and Train

​We empower staff to minimise negative environmental impact through inclusive decision-making and active participation. Employees receive two paid nature days annually to engage in conservation projects. We welcome work experience students to foster the next generation of environmentalists and encourage staff-led green initiatives and innovation.

6 – Minimise the Impact of Transport

​We aim to reduce vehicle use for business and commuting by prioritising low-carbon options such as public transport, cycling, and car-sharing. Virtual meetings will replace travel where possible. For essential international flights, we will offset emissions through approved schemes. Locally, we will explore implementing a Cycle to Work scheme to support sustainable commuting.

7 – Sustainable Procurement​

​We prioritise local suppliers and produce wherever possible, reducing environmental impact and supporting our community. Our choices favour ethical, fair trade, and environmentally responsible products, ensuring that every purchase reflects our commitment to sustainability.

8 – Land and Property

​We will reduce the environmental impact of all buildings we use, including Bridge Chambers, by improving energy efficiency and minimising waste. Our approach includes monitoring usage, adopting sustainable practices, and seeking opportunities to lower emissions across our properties.

9 – Conserve Energy and Resources

We’re committed to reducing energy use in our offices and remote workspaces. By promoting energy-efficient appliances, encouraging smart practices, and inspiring behaviour change, we aim to cut heating, lighting, and electricity impacts—because every action counts toward a greener North Devon.

​We recognise water as a scarce resource requiring significant energy for treatment. Across all activities, we commit to using water responsibly and minimising consumption of treated water through efficient practices. 

10 – Communicate

We will communicate this policy and our environmental objectives to all staff, volunteers, contractors, trustees and stakeholders by publishing this Policy Statement on our website. All stakeholders will be encouraged to take part in an active dialogue to improve our approach.

11 – Monitor and Evaluate

We will regularly review our activities, products, and services to assess environmental impact and drive improvement. Contractors and suppliers will be encouraged to adopt responsible practices. This policy will be updated every two years or sooner to reflect legislative changes and evolving organisational priorities.

12 – Comply with Legislation

​We commit to complying with all relevant environmental legislation and standards, including the Environmental Protection Act, WEEE Regulations, and Climate Change Act. We follow approved codes of practice, uphold ethical standards, and support the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Our practices are continually monitored and updated to reflect legislative changes and ensure responsible environmental stewardship within the North Devon Biosphere.