Environmental Policy:
At The Cheshire Garden Design Studio, we are committed to designing and creating gardens and landscapes that have a low environmental impact while promoting biodiversity, enhancing wellbeing, and minimising waste. We strive to incorporate nature into our designs, use sustainable materials, and implement practices that help to mitigate climate change and support sustainable urbandrainage systems (SuDS). Our environmental policy includes the following principles:
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Gardens with Low Environmental Impact:
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We prioritise the use of environmentally friendly materials, such as recycled and locally sourced materials, in our garden designs.
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We encourage the use of organic and natural gardening methods to minimise the use of chemical pesticides and fertilisers.
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We promote the efficient use of resources, including water and energy, by designing gardens with rainwater run-off irrigation systems and energy-efficient lighting solutions.
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Positive Impact for Biodiversity:
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We incorporate a variety of plants in our designs to create mini wildlife habitats, attracting pollinators and supporting local ecosystems.
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We consider the ecological requirements of the local flora and fauna, selecting native plants that are beneficial to local wildlife.
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We include garden features such as bee bricks, bird boxes, insect hotels, and wildlife-friendly ponds to provide additional habitats for diverse species.
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Bringing Nature into the Garden:
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We design gardens that integrate as many natural elements as possible, including trees, shrubs, and water features, to create a sense of harmony with the surrounding environment.
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We prioritise the inclusion of green spaces and planting areas that enhance the visual appeal and provide opportunities for relaxation and stress reduction.
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Improving Quality of Life and Wellbeing:
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We understand the importance of green spaces in enhancing wellbeing. Our designs focus on creating tranquil and inviting garden spaces that promote mental and physical health.
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We incorporate elements such as seating areas, sensory gardens, and spaces for physical activities to encourage outdoor engagement and connection with nature.
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Minimising Waste and Promoting Re-use:
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We strive to minimise waste by carefully planning material usage and avoiding excess excavation.
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We promote the reuse of materials by incorporating reclaimed or re-purposed items into our designs whenever possible. At the end of their life cycle, we encourage the repair, re-purposing, or recycling of materials to reduce waste and minimise environmental impact.
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Longevity of Materials:
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We select materials known for their durability, ensuring that garden features and structures have a long lifespan.
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By using high-quality materials, we reduce the need for frequent replacements, minimising waste and resource consumption.
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Plants Tolerant to Climate Change:
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We prioritise the selection of plant species that are resilient and adaptable to changing climatic conditions.
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We consider the local climate and soil conditions when choosing plants, favouring those with high drought tolerance, disease resistance, and suitability for the garden’s location.
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Minimising Carbon Impact:
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We strive to use materials with low carbon impact throughout their life cycle, from production to disposal or re-use.
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We minimise the carbon release from the soil by reducing soil excavation and disturbance during construction.
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Actively promote the sequestration of carbon in the soil by planting a significant number of trees and shrubs in our garden designs.
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Water Management and Flood Mitigation:
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We incorporate sustainable urban drainage systems (SuDS) into our designs, including permeable surfaces, rain gardens, and water attenuation features.
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We use water butts and rainwater harvesting systems to capture and re-use water for irrigation, reducing reliance on freshwater sources and minimising flood risks.
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Minimising Travel and Educating Clients:
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We aim to minimise travel-related emissions by using online platforms for communication and project management whenever possible.
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We educate our clients about the benefits of sustainable urban drainage systems (SuDS) and provide guidance on their implementation and maintenance to create a wider understanding and adoption of these practices.
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By adhering to this environmental policy, we are dedicated to designing and creating gardens and landscapes that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also contribute positively to the environment, biodiversity, and the wellbeing of our clients and the wider community.
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Information on SuDS can be found here: The SuDS Manual.