Examples of what we're doing

Creating a Catalyst for Environmental Action

Our work at Vivi naTUra is not just about providing experiences in nature; it's about creating meaningful connections that inspire individuals to become stewards of the planet. By immersing people in the wonders of the natural world, we foster a deeper appreciation for its delicate balance and the importance of protecting it. This connection can be the catalyst for our guests to make more sustainable choices in their daily lives and advocate for environmental action.

Recognising Room for Improvement

Sustainability must be ongoing journey, not a destination. We are constantly evaluating the impact of our activities and seeking ways to minimise them. We encourage feedback from our community and partners to identify areas where we can make further progress.

Seeking Opportunities for Conversations

We're committed to using our voice to promote positive environmental action. This thread runs through our courses and events, our social media content, networking and anywhere else we are engaging with others. We believe that honesty and authenticity are essential for building trust and creating opportunities to further the conversation about environmental sustainability and the climate crisis. There are no easy answers or simple solutions and therefore we engage openly about the challenges and opportunities we all face in living more in harmony with nature.

Sustainable Sourcing

We work hard to source our materials as sustainably as possible. Our approach is guided by the principles of circularity, responsible sourcing, and the use of natural and biodegradable materials.

We prioritise circularity by seeking out pre-loved, upcycled, and recycled materials whenever possible. This reduces our reliance on virgin resources and minimises the environmental impact associated with extraction and processing. Where we cannot avoid buying new materials, we prioritise sourcing products made using sustainable and biodegradable materials, from environmentally responsible suppliers who employ fair labour practices.

When using materials sourced from nature for our activities, we employ responsible harvesting methods that promote regeneration, healthy ecosystems and increased biodiversity, such as coppicing, which allows for the controlled harvesting of trees while promoting their growth and vitality.

Waste Reduction and Recycling

We don't believe that waste is an inevitable by-product of our activities but rather a reflection of our choices. Guided by the principles of zero waste, we are committed to minimising our environmental footprint by aiming for a circular system where waste is eliminated and resources are utilised responsibly.

Eliminating Waste from the Start

Our zero-waste approach begins with the procurement process. We carefully consider our needs and only source what we absolutely require, reducing our reliance on disposable items and unnecessary packaging. This conscious approach eliminates waste at the source, preventing it from entering our waste stream in the first place.

Transforming Waste into Resources

When items no longer serve their original purpose, we attempt to transform them into other valuable resources. Upcycling involves creatively repurposing discarded materials, extending their lifespan and reducing the need for new products. This practice not only reduces waste but also fosters creativity and resourcefulness.

Composting

Food scraps and other organic materials are composted and used on our allotment. This natural process mimics nature's cycles, promoting sustainability and reducing our reliance on landfills.

Recycling: A Last Resort

Where waste cannot be reused or upcycled, we recycle it, in the hope that it is diverted from landfills and given a new life. However, we acknowledge that the recycling industry is opaque and recycled waste is not always handled as expected. Waste is sent to landfill as an absolute last resort and only where other options have been exhausted.

Balancing Transportation Needs and Environmental Impact

Our work takes us to remote areas, often necessitating car transportation. We do what we can to mitigate this environmental impact through various measures. We optimise our routes to minimise fuel consumption and maintain our vehicles to ensure they are operating efficiently. We use public transport wherever possible and advocate for sustainable transportation infrastructure in the areas we operate.

To further reduce our transportation footprint, we encourage our customers to consider using public transport or bicycles when traveling to our location. To incentivise these lower impact options, we regularly offer discounts, complimentary refreshments, and/or gifts to customers who choose to arrive by public transport or bicycle. We believe that collectively, these efforts can make a difference in reducing our environmental impact and promoting sustainable transportation practices.

Meat-free Menus

At our courses and retreats, we offer exclusively vegan and vegetarian food options. By embracing plant-based cuisine, we not only prioritise the health and well-being of our guests but also significantly reduce our environmental impact. Meat production is a leading contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, loss of biodiversity and water pollution. By abstaining from meat, we help mitigate these harmful effects and promote a more sustainable food system.

Low-Impact Activities, by Design

All our activities are designed to have have minimal environmental impact. We prioritise Leave No Trace principles, ensuring that we leave our natural surroundings untouched and pristine. By immersing ourselves in nature responsibly, we cultivate and promote a deeper respect for our natural world and ensure our participants to leave with a greater awareness of the importance of sustainable behaviour when enjoying wild places.