Green @ Greenhaven

At Green Haven we aim to live, and offer holiday accommodation, in a way that is sustainable to the environment. Since living at Green Haven, we have put in place, and are always investigating, a number of things that will help make Green Haven, green. Small steps do make a big difference and below would be our top ten actions to date. These range from small steps, to some a little larger

1. Reduce Use – we have low energy light bulbs throughout and smart meters measure our usage. Our toilets either have water saving flush functions or a water saving ‘Hippo’ installed
2. Heat Efficiently – all our radiators have thermostatic valves and we have a programmable timer so we draw heat only when it is needed
3. Keep clean and tidy naturally – we use eco-products/natural products for all our cleaning and washing
4. Compost – we compost all of our food and garden waste, greatly reducing black bin waste
5. Reduce, reuse and recycle packaging – we make careful choices as a consumer. We try to buy loose fruit and vegetables, refuse to buy heavily packaged goods, use our own bags and recycle everything possible
6. Buy local – there are lots of excellent independent shops in Halesworth and we use local shops, pubs, restaurants, companies and trades people wherever possible
7. Plan travel – where possible, we have tried to increase our use of trains and public transport. We have taken two holidays this way, to Cornwall and Europe, and the travel for both was more enjoyable than sitting in a queue of traffic or dealing with an airport.
8. Install solar systems – we have installed a solar system in the camping field, so now generate much of our own electricity as well as feeding the National Grid. The water for the campsite showers is heated by a solar thermal system installed on the roof. If you are interested, we will happily explain the systems and the benefits when you come and visit
9. Install rain water harvesting – we have installed a rain water harvesting system to flush the toilets in our house, Wheelwright’s Cottage and those in the shower block. This was expensive but it is satisfying knowing that we aren't using drinking water for flushing
10. Energy Efficient Appliances – we currently heat the site with 2 oil boilers and electric underfloor heating. We have replaced the boilers, so they are as efficient as possible and the underfloor heating can be powered by solar power.

We are a small and friendly family-run business, which focuses on appreciating the environment, countryside and local resources around us - using them sustainably and sensitively.  Doing your bit locally makes a difference globally.