The Global Picture
We recognise that as a local conservation society our impact extends beyond the practical projects we undertake. In particular, we believe that the negative impacts of climate change are a central challenge for our generation. We acknowledge that there is overwhelming evidence that the worst impacts of climate change constitute one of the greatest social, environmental and economic threats to society. We accept the need for action on climate change and that groups like ours can play a part. As such, we are committed to taking positive steps to reduce the negative environmental impact we have, whilst encouraging similar action within our community.
We acknowledge the Third Sector Declaration on Climate Change, to which BTCV* is a signatory. This declaration publicly commits BTCV to address the issue of climate change and support the groups in its Community Network to doing the same.
The Sandgate Conservation Society Policy
1). At the heart of the work of Sandgate Conservation Society is a desire to protect and enhance our local environment. This is for the benefit of nature conservation and the education and informal enjoyment of the current and future generations.
2). To achieve this in relation to our site management we will:
a) Ensure that all practical projects we undertake on Sandgate Park, Sullington Warren, Warren Hill or any other site our trustees agree to work on, are part of an agreed management plan, developed by the relevant site owner / manager.
b). Liaise with the relevant landowner / site manager to ensure that their proposed work programme has considered the time of year that work is undertaken so that it minimises any disturbance to wildlife.
c). Ensure that the environmental benefits of the work undertaken on our field days are explained.
d). When practicable, find alternatives uses of cut material and thus reduce the amount of material we burn.
e). If planting trees or shrubs, plant native species and avoid the use of peat based produces.
f). Reserve the right to refuse to undertake particular projects if, in the view of our project leader on the day, the short term disturbance to wildlife will outweigh the long-term benefits the work will achieve.
g). Revised our work practices when new evidence emerges relating to the best environmental practice.
3). Other Actions relating to the wider work of the Society.
We recognise that as a society our impact extends beyond the practical projects we undertake. To help minimise our wider environmental impact we will:
a). Use our talks, walks and visits programme to make our members are more environmentally aware.
b). Use our newsletter to educate and inform our members about wider environmental issues.
c). Use recycled paper for the printing of our newsletters and programmes.
d). When possible, purchase goods / services that are locally produced.
e). Purchase fair traded refreshments for meetings and field days.
f). Encourage the sharing of cars when travelling to walks / outings.
g). Encourage other bodies with whom we interact (such as the Parish Council) to adopt sound environmental principles.
Approved at Committee Meeting 10/8/06
*The BTCV has been superseded by The Conservation Volunteers (TCV)