Environmental Policy

Our Objectives

Bow Arts is committed to sustainable development (meeting the needs of the present without
compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs) as a guiding principle
within our work. The aim of this policy is to reduce the impact on the environment from our
operations by reducing carbon emissions and to research, develop and implement cost effective
ways of operating, whilst using ecological materials and energy sources that have a minimal impact
on the environment. The policy also aims to establish Bow Arts as an advocate for sustainability in
the sector through educating and increasing environmental awareness amongst staff, tenants, peer organisations and audiences.

Scope of Policy

We will assess the environmental impacts of our operations and set objectives and targets in order
to improve our environmental performance. We will regularly review these targets and report on
them at least annually. We will:

  • Align our policy with the Mayor of London’s 1.5C Compatible Climate Action Plan supporting
    London to become a zero carbon city by 2050
  • Promote responsibility for the environment with the organisation and communicate and
    implement this policy at all levels within the workforce
  • Reduce the use of energy, water and other resources and consumables
  • Minimise waste through reduction, re-use and recycling
  • Comply with all relevant environmental legislation/regulation
  • Ensure our procurement of goods and services balances best value alongside sustainability
    requirements
  • Act as an advocate within the sector encouraging peer organisations and artist tenants to
    participate in sustainable development
  • Identify and provide appropriate training, advice and information for staff to encourage
    them to implement sustainable development processes

Implementation

This policy is supported by an Environmental & Sustainability Action Plan which specifies how the policy will be implemented, alongside targets, dates and a named person responsible for delivering it. The action plan will be shared with all staff and integrated within departmental operational plans. Implementation of the policy and progress of the action plan will be spearheaded by a Green Trustee Champion appointed from within the Board and a Green Staff Champion appointed by members of the Green Team. The Green Team is Bow Arts’ energy and sustainability team, comprising staff from all departments where possible, who will meet quarterly.

Reporting

Progress against the action plan will be monitored by the Green Team and reported to the SLT and Board on a quarterly basis. This information will form the basis of an annual sustainability audit and be used to update our action plan for the coming year.

Updated: February 2019
Review: February 2021