Willows Veterinary Centre and Referral Service are committed to achieving the highest possible levels of environmental sustainability through the delivery of best-in-class patient care and treatment.
We are incredibly proud to have achieved Green status with Investors in the Environment (iiE). The Green award is iiE’s highest accolade and is awarded to companies which have made significant reductions in energy use and waste, along with increases in efficiency, recycling and sustainability.
We recognise that all businesses impact the environment in many different ways. As such, Willows is committed to the continual improvement of our environmental performance to reduce our carbon footprint and ensure a positive impact on the environment. By 2040 we aim to achieve a net zero target.
Willows environmental group known as the ‘Green Giants’ has identified the following key environmental impacts associated with the provision of veterinary care,
- Energy consumption (Reduction of 2% minimum each year across electricity, gas and water)
- Use of volatile halogenated anesthetic gases
- Waste production and disposal
- Paper usage
- Transport of personnel and Willows van
- Procurement and supplies.
As an organisation, Willows is committed to reducing these and other impacts and the continual improvement of our environmental performance. Our policy is to comply with environmental legislation and regulations relevant to our organisation and its activities, according to the EU and Environment Agency.
Willows aims to achieve long-term environmental benefits along with long-term savings plans, as good safe-guarding of the business. Willows are also looking to reduce incidences that result in liability, conserve raw materials and energy, monitor our impact and demonstrate results.
We are committed to working with our associates, customers, referring practices, suppliers, investors, contractors, regulatory bodies, colleagues, and neighbours to achieve the following objectives.
- Increase cost-effectiveness by reducing our consumption of energy and raw materials
- Reduce waste and carbon emissions both locally and in the wider environment
- Systematically assess the environmental impact of all aspects of our company
- Set targets for measurable annual improvements
- Make our progress available for independent assessment (iiE).
It is the responsibility of all associates, visitors and contractors to support this policy through active participation and cooperation fully.
This environmental policy will be displayed at all times and is openly available to all members of the public via our website – www.willows.uk.net/sustainability
The introduction and implementation of this policy is a commitment of Willows Veterinary Centre and Referral Service management and our associates. With the support of the Linnaeus group.
The policy will be reviewed annually as part of the organisation’s overall environment management plan.
