-
Where possible to design new
developments with wildlife and wooded areas.
-
Plant drought resistant
shrubs and incorporate aromatic plants and
kitchen herbs into communal borders.
-
Ensure contractors and estate
staff are fully compliant with environmental
legislation and do not use non-toxic methods
of controlling weeds and pests and they use
peat free compost and that all garden waste
is collected for composting.
-
Ensure all wood used in
construction, building and in the office is
from sustainable managed forests (FSC)
-
Become a fair trade
organisation, where possible only using
caterers who source their food locally and
where possible use organic and fairly farmed
produce.
-
Promote and fund training for
residents’ groups in organic gardening,
permaculture, and community landownership.
(See training
section.)
-
Encourage and support
residents to look after their gardens and
communal areas through offering special
offers for garden equipment in their
newsletters (for instance water butts,
composters and community seating).
-
Promote a green grant award
scheme offering cash prizes for the greenest
housing scheme.
-
Run competitions and articles
in your residents’ newsletter about the
importance of biodiversity and protection of
wildlife.
-
Provide help to elders and
those with disabilities to manage their
gardens. This could be a direct service or
one in partnership with a local volunteering
voluntary organisation.
-
Promote and work in
partnership with local conservation groups
to protect land and wildlife in areas in
close proximity to your housing stock.
-
Encourage staff to volunteer
in the community or sponsor a local cause
like a city farm or community woodland
project.
-
Take to the hills or
countryside with staff as a team building
exercise.
