sustainability and ethics

Our electricity

Our electricity is supplied by ecotricity which is 100% gained from renewable sources. We minimise our usage of electricity by the use of energy saving equipment wherever possible.

Our buildings

Our buildings incorporate designs to maximise natural resources. We use a large amount of natural light and ventilation, to reduce the amount of artificial light which needs to be provided. Our lighting and heating is designed in such a way that during the winter, even when it is zero degrees outside, the heating isn't needed inside, using natural sunlight and day light to provide warmth.

Carbon offsetting

We will soon be partnering with ecologi, a gold standard accredited carbon offset partner, who will take our money and invest it in technologies such as methane capture and solar energy which reduces the need for energy production using fossil fuels.

Shipping materials

Our shipping cardboard boxes are either made from recycled cardboard, or upcycled boxes we have obtained from local manufacturers that would have previously gone to landfill.

Direct work with the growers wherever possible

By dealing direct with farmers we can ensure that ingredients we buy are farmed ethically and with environmental responsibility.

Ethics & environment

We will not buy indian sandalwood where not only people die for its production, but the trees, which take nearly 200 years to grow and provide an amazing habitat for wildlife are cut without regard.

Co-operatives and community

We do however love to buy from co-operatives and local projects, where people have come together to find a way of bring prosperity, work and hope to their communities, where their local environment is their home and therefore they do not abuse it.

Ecosystems & the aquatic environment

We only use preservatives and ingredients which will break down in such a way as not to pollute ecosystems and the aquatic environment. We continually monitor new ingredients which come to the market which can further enhance our environmental commitments.

We are continuously looking at ways to lower our environmental impact.

 

 

Workers rights

Free choice of employment

The choice of employment shall lay with the individual worker. Employment is not forced. Unless part of prison rehabilitiation program, the employee shall not be imprisoned.

Discrimination

There shall be no discrimination in employment recruitment, wage policy, admittance to training programmes, employee promotion policy, policies of employment termination, retirement, and any other aspect of the employment relationship shall be based on the principle of equal opportunities, regardless of race, colour, sex, religion, political affiliation, union membership, nationality, social origin, deficiencies or handicaps.

Child labour

There shall be no use of child labour. The age for admission to full time employment shall not be less than the age of completion of compulsory schooling.

Payment of a living wage

Wages and benefits paid for a standard working week shall meet at least legal or industry minimum standards and always be sufficient to meet basic needs of workers and their families and to provide some discretionary income. Employees shall be adequately and clearly informed about the specifications of their wages including wage rates and pay period.

No excessive working hours

Hours of work shall comply with applicable laws and industry standards. In any event, workers shall not on a regular basis be required to work in excess of 48 hours per week. Overtime shall be voluntary, shall not exceed 12 hours per week, shall not be demanded on a regular basis.

Safe and healthy working conditions

A safe and hygienic working environment shall be provided, and best occupational health and safety practice shall be promoted, bearing in mind the prevailing knowledge of the industry and of any specific hazards. Appropriate attention shall be paid to occupational hazards specific to this branch of the industry and assure that a safe and hygienic work environment is provided for. Effective regulations shall be implemented to prevent accidents and minimise health risks as much as possible. Processing techniques should not put any worker at risk either to short term or long term health problems.

Physical abuse, threats of physical abuse, unusual punishments or discipline, sexual and other harassment, and intimidation by the employer is strictly prohibited.