Our Sustainability Policy
The Malvern
The Malvern Spa - Sustainability Statement
At The Malvern Spa, we recognise that sustainability is essential for a truly responsible business. We strive to minimise our environmental footprint and maximise positive social impact throughout our operations and beyond. This commitment drives us to integrate environmental and social responsibility into as many aspects of our hotel and spa experiences as possible.
Sustainability is an ever-evolving landscape that requires shared responsibility, dedication and continuous improvement in everything we do. We therefore welcome the continued support and input from all stakeholders to guide our collective journey.
This statement outlines our environmental and social commitments, the practices we’ve implemented, and the ambitious goals we’re reaching for. It also serves as a guiding framework for the integration of sustainability into our operations, decision-making, and culture.
Planet
Addressing our environmental impact is not a mandate, but a core value that aligns with our mission to promote holistic wellbeing and a balanced lifestyle. We are aware that every action we take – from the products we use to the energy we consume – has an impact on the environment. Therefore, we are dedicated to implementing sustainable practices that reduce our carbon footprint, conserve resources, and protect biodiversity.
Energy & Carbon Reduction
The following technologies have been implemented to reduce our energy consumption and maximise efficiency across our operations:
- A 141kW solar panel system was installed in May 2023, with an annual estimated energy generation of over 87k kWh.
- Motion-sensor controls and energy-efficient LED lights across the hotel, pool, gym, treatment rooms and restaurant.
- Two EV charging points on site, available for staff and guests.
- Voltage optimisers across all areas of the property.
Water Reduction
The hospitality industry relies heavily on this essential resource. We have a responsibility to minimise our water usage wherever possible, implement innovative technologies, and encourage employees and guests to adopt responsible consumption practices.
At The Malvern Spa, we have installed timers on pool jets and other spa features to minimise our electrical and water usage. Additional water-saving efficiencies include pool pump optimisation and low flow toilets.
Waste Management
Responsible waste management is central to our environmental commitment. We minimise waste generation, promote recycling practices, and work to reduce the environmental impact of waste disposal. Going forward, we aim to integrate circular economy principles where waste is minimised and resources are reused, recycled or repurposed.
The following actions have been taken within the business to minimise our waste generation:
- We are reducing single use plastics throughout the hotel & spa.
- No disposal plastic cups, or swimwear bags provided to guests.
- We have stopped the use of travel toiletries in the hotel bedrooms and replaced these with refillable amenities.
- Glass bottled water is offered in bedrooms.
Responsible Chemical Use
- We have implemented concentrated cleaning solutions and utilise dilution systems to minimise overall chemical use.
- We ensure the correct storage and disposal of all cleaning chemicals. Ensuring all hazardous materials are stored in a dedicated area, which is well-ventilated and has proper signage. All staff are trained on the safe handling and disposal of hazardous materials.
Product Sourcing
We prioritise sourcing produce from local bakeries and butchers. This reduces our carbon footprint associated with transportation and fosters relationships with local businesses.
Indoor Air Quality
- Air purification technologies have been installed to filter out dust, allergens, and other contaminants from the air, around the grand salon, changing rooms and corridors in the hotel.
- The HVAC systems are regularly inspected to ensure optimal performance and air quality. This includes regular filter replacements and system inspections.
People
Our commitment to sustainability extends beyond our environmental commitment to encompass the social wellbeing of our employees and guests, and fostering a positive social impact on the wider community.
Our Workforce
We strive to cultivate a supportive and inclusive environment where all employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to reach their full potential. Our dedication to social responsibility within our business is reflected through the following initiatives:
- Ensuring equal opportunities for all, which is communicated through our ‘Equality policy for customers visitors and guests’.
- We are committed to offering job opportunities across the business and work with an apprenticeship program to provide positions in both our spa and kitchen.
- We offer in-house NVQ/VTEC qualifications including those for management training.
- All team members are given a substantial staff discount on wellbeing treatments in our spa, a complimentary gym membership with he health club and access to gym programs to promote employee health and wellbeing.
- Our spa department holds regular wellness workshops for the teams which include yoga, sound baths, and breath work practice.
- We have comprehensive health and safety policies that adhere to the highest industry standards.
Our Suppliers
Our commitment to upholding high standards of human rights and ethical labour practices extends to our supply chain, ensuring that the products and services we procure are produced under fair conditions. We have a zero-tolerance policy for unlawful child and forced labour practices and seek to work with suppliers who share these values.
Community Engagement
Businesses do not operate in isolation. We are committed to making a positive impact on the communities we serve. Our initiatives include:
- We engage in charity partnerships and support local fundraising events.
- We have hosted numerous events and participated in fundraising events to raise awareness and financial support for important community causes.
- Provide local corporate rates for health club membership to encourage local businesses to support the health and wellbeing of their employees.
- Partnership with local breast cancer unit, where patients can be referred to us for oncology massages.
- We take part in presentations at local colleges to provide valuable insights into potential career paths within the hospitality industry.
Leadership & Management
Our Board of Directors is involved in setting and overseeing the company’s sustainability commitments and goals. Our management team is responsible for these commitments and integrating sustainability into daily operations.
Accountability & Transparency
We understand the importance of accountability and transparency in our sustainability journey. We are committed to monitoring and reporting on our progress, openly sharing both our successes and the areas where we continue to improve. This allows our stakeholders to hold us accountable and become partners in building a more sustainable future.
Continuous Improvement
We acknowledge that we are just at the beginning of our sustainability journey and that the challenges we all face are significant. But we firmly believe that together, we can build a more sustainable future for ourselves and generations to come.
We are committed to regularly reviewing our stainability performance and will update members and guests of our progress via our monthly members newsletter and as part of a new blog page we are developing.
Review
As we continue our sustainability journey, we will regularly update this statement to reflect our latest goals and practices. Stay tuned!
Date of last review: 12th June 2024