Environmental Policy

The Vale of Glamorgan Council has a significant impact on the local environment. This impact arises from providing services (direct effects), for example by staff using resources and creating waste; and from influencing the environmental actions of others (indirect effects), for example by regulating, motivating and raising environmental awareness.

VALE OF GLAMORGAN ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY

The Vale of Glamorgan Council has a significant impact on the local environment. This

impact arises from providing services (direct effects), for example by staff using resources

and creating waste; and from influencing the environmental actions of others (indirect

effects), for example by regulating, motivating and raising environmental awareness. The

Council recognises its impact on the area and is committed to protecting and enhancing

the environment for future generations by promoting sustainable practices and acting

responsibly, and considering environmental, ecological, social and economic factors in all

decision making processes.

The Council is committed to continual environmental improvement and the Corporate Plan

2010-2014 outlines a number of improvement objectives and actions relating to this

commitment. A key aim of the Corporate Plan is ‘to work with partners to develop a

sustainable community which maximises opportunities for economic growth, social

improvement and environmental regeneration and protection’.

In all its activities the Council will endeavour to adhere to principles of sustainability and

sustainable development, specifically:

• Ensure that environmental legislation is complied with, and fulfil our statutory

environmental responsibilities.

• Minimise the use of non-renewable resources including energy in its own buildings,

vehicles and in all Council activities.

• Avoid waste and encourage the conservation, reuse and recycling of resources.

• Encourage the installation of renewable energy sources.

• Minimise environmental pollution from all its activities and influence others to do the

same.

• Conserve, restore and enhance the Vale’s built and natural environment, keeping it

safe, diverse and pleasant.

• Reduce the need for the movement of both people and goods. Where movement is

necessary, encourage the use of public transport, car sharing, cycling and walking.

• Procure and provide goods and services in a socially and environmentally responsible

manner.

• Promote understanding and participation in environmental issues through education,

information and community consultation.

• Provide appropriate resources and the necessary training for staff to ensure that they

are able to fulfil the commitment given in this policy.

• Consider biodiversity in the actions of the Council.

This Environmental Policy will be made available to all staff and other interested parties.

Cllr Gordon Kemp – Leader of the Council

Mr John Maitland Evans – Chief Executive

13 December 2011