At Bracken Tor each year we have targets to reduce our energy use, reduce our waste and increase the sustainability of our venues, with aim to become carbon neutral.

Reductions in the % of waste
In 2022, we have managed to increase to 75% recycling of our waste, by taking on recycling glass ourselves. This has been a gradual journey, starting from 30% recycling in 2014, to 60% by 2018 and now 75% in 2022.

Reductions in the % of water usage
Since 2019 we have reduced our water bills by 24% though adding valves to reduce pressure, based on information and advice from SW Water.

Reducing our energy use
In 2018 we added the first Solar Panels at the Bracken Tor Function Room generating up to 4000kW per annum. At the same time, we have changed the way the electricity is supplied to the three buildings at Bracken Tor, so that any excess energy from the Solar Panels can now be used in Bracken Tor Lodge. The gradual switch to LED lighting has reduced the amount spent on bulbs per annum by 80% as well as reducing customer complaints about flickering lights. In 2023 we added further panels to increase the level of generation on our journey to become carbon neutral.

Ensuring our use of local suppliers
Whilst costs often mean that we can buy produce at a lower cost from one of the large suppliers that have distribution centres some distance from Okehampton, we seek to use, where possible, local suppliers for daily supplies of eggs and milk, local producers for vegetables and meat.

Increasing our “Free-from” food options
We have sought better signage for our “free-from” menu options, we have folders with information on all allergens for staff and customers and we have added new products increasing the proportion of gluten-free and dairy-free products in shop and snack-bar.

Increasing our use of renewable energy
We have switched our energy suppliers to one claims to use 100% renewable sources and we have installed solar panels ourselves at Bracken Tor.