At Near Howe, we recognise the importance of protecting the natural environment that makes the Lake District such a special place to live, work, and visit. As a family-run business providing holiday cottages, luxury glamping accommodation, and alpaca experiences, we are committed to operating in an environmentally responsible manner and continually improving our environmental performance.
Our Commitments
We aim to:
- Comply with all relevant environmental legislation and regulations.
- Minimise waste and encourage recycling throughout our business.
- Reduce energy consumption through the use of energy-efficient appliances, lighting, heating systems, and renewable energy technologies.
- Generate renewable energy through on-site solar panels and maximise the use of clean energy wherever possible.
- Encourage sustainable travel through the provision of electric vehicle charging facilities and information on local walking, cycling, and public transport options.
- Source goods and services responsibly, supporting local suppliers where practical to reduce transport emissions and support the local economy.
- Reduce the use of single-use plastics and unnecessary packaging.
- Conserve water through efficient fixtures, regular maintenance, and encouraging responsible use by guests.
- Protect and enhance biodiversity across our site through careful land management and habitat creation.
- Ensure any future developments are designed with sustainability and environmental impact in mind.
- Promote environmental awareness amongst staff, contractors, and guests.
Renewable Energy
As part of our commitment to reducing our carbon footprint, Near Howe has invested in renewable and low-carbon technologies across the site.
These include:
- Solar panels that generate renewable electricity for the business.
- Air source heat pumps that provide efficient, low-carbon heating and hot water for our luxury glamping pods and selected holiday cottages.
- Energy-efficient appliances, lighting, and heating controls throughout most of our accommodation.
- Two electric vehicle chargers for our guests to use
When planning new developments and improvements, we will continue to consider opportunities to increase the use of renewable energy and improve energy efficiency.
Biodiversity and Land Management
Near Howe is situated within a beautiful rural setting, and we are committed to preserving and enhancing local wildlife habitats. We actively manage our grounds to encourage biodiversity through:
- Maintaining and planting native trees, hedgerows, and wildflower areas.
- Providing habitats for birds, insects, and other wildlife.
- Managing our land in a way that supports healthy ecosystems.
- Ensuring our alpaca grazing areas are maintained responsibly to protect soil health and minimise environmental impacts.
Waste and Recycling
We encourage all guests and staff to minimise waste and recycle wherever possible. Recycling facilities are provided on-site, and we continually review opportunities to reduce waste generation across the business.
Energy and Carbon Reduction
We seek to reduce our carbon footprint through:
- Generating renewable electricity through on-site solar panels.
- Using air source heat pumps to provide low-carbon heating and hot water.
- Installing energy-efficient lighting and appliances throughout our accommodation.
- Regular maintenance of buildings and equipment to maximise efficiency.
- Provision of EV charging facilities for guests.
- Careful consideration of sustainability in any new accommodation or infrastructure projects.
Working with Guests
We encourage guests to support our environmental objectives by:
- Recycling during their stay.
- Conserving water and energy.
- Respecting local wildlife and the countryside.
- Exploring the Lake District using sustainable transport options where possible.
Continuous Improvement
Environmental responsibility is an ongoing commitment. We will regularly review our practices and identify opportunities to further reduce our environmental impact while continuing to provide high-quality accommodation and experiences for our guests.
This policy will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary to reflect changes in legislation, best practice, and the needs of the business.
Near Howe
Policy Review Date: June 2026
