As the world looks toward sustainability and climate action, Boconnoc, an historic estate nestled in the heart of Cornwall, is embracing its role in this movement. With a history dating back to the Domesday Book, Boconnoc is now blending centuries-old traditions with innovative green technologies to ensure that its future is as sustainable as its past is long.
In recognition of World Carbon Literacy Action Day on November 14, 2024, we are proud to highlight the latest initiatives that build on our existing work towards reducing our carbon footprint and contributing to a more sustainable future. This day marks a call to action for individuals, businesses, and communities to reflect on the importance of carbon literacy and take practical steps to reduce emissions. Here at Boconnoc, we are not only celebrating this important day but also actively integrating sustainability into everything we do.
EV Chargers Installation: Powering the Future
In the last week of October, we began installing three-phase and electric vehicle (EV) chargers. The installation is set to be completed by the end of November, with four EV chargers available for use. As electric vehicle adoption increases, these chargers will provide guests and staff with the facilities to charge their EVs, promoting the use of low-emission transportation at Boconnoc. This forward-thinking move builds on our long-standing commitment to reduce our environmental impact and embraces the future of clean energy.
Renewable Energy for Boconnoc House and Cottages
November also saw the start of works to extend our existing biomass boiler to power additional properties. This project will enable Boconnoc House and three nearby cottages to operate entirely on renewable energy by the end of the month. Biomass energy, a renewable and sustainable source, will ensure that these historic buildings are heated in an environmentally friendly way, supporting our ongoing efforts to reduce our carbon footprint.
Sustainable Transport with an Electric Golf Buggy
To further reduce our emissions, we’ve introduced an electric golf buggy for staff and guest use. The buggy is a sustainable and efficient way for staff to move around the Estate’s extensive grounds and for us to show guests around the beautiful gardens and historic buildings. The move aligns with our broader strategy to transition to electric and low-emission transport options across the Estate.
A Step Towards Net Zero: Carbon Footprint Calculations
As part of our ongoing commitment to sustainability, we welcomed a Net Zero intern in mid-October, in collaboration with Plymouth University. The intern will be working closely with our team to calculate the Estate’s carbon footprint, and by April 2025, we will have a comprehensive understanding of our emissions. With these results, we will be able to set clear, actionable targets to reduce our carbon footprint and work towards becoming a carbon-neutral estate. This project is supported by a grant and marks an important step towards achieving our sustainability goals.
Celebrating Local Produce: Apple Juice from Our Orchard
Boconnoc Estate is also committed to supporting local businesses and sustainability through agriculture. Our orchard, which has been a part of the Estate for generations, yielded a bountiful harvest this year. The apples were picked and pressed by local juice maker Rame Rectory, who in return provided us with 300 bottles of our very own apple juice. This juice will be used at weddings, events, and special occasions, allowing us to showcase local produce while reducing the carbon footprint of imported goods.
Empowering the Team with Carbon Literacy
Sustainability is not only about making physical changes to the Estate but also about changing mindsets. Half of our team has already completed carbon literacy courses, equipping them with the knowledge to make environmentally conscious decisions in their daily work. The remaining team members are scheduled to take the course in January 2025. This training, in line with World Carbon Literacy Action Day, ensures that sustainability is at the heart of everything we do, from operations to guest experiences.
A Legacy of Sustainability
Boconnoc Estate has always been a place where nature, history, and people come together. As we continue to innovate and lead by example, we’re excited to see these green initiatives join Boconnoc’s rich history. The Estate’s legacy of caring for the land, the buildings, and the community is as important as ever, and we are proud to be working towards integrating sustainability into every aspect of life at Boconnoc. We remain committed to preserving Boconnoc for generations to come by taking meaningful steps to protect the environment. As we celebrate World Carbon Literacy Action Day, we’re proud to be part of the growing movement of businesses and individuals working towards a sustainable world.
Support from the Good Growth Fund
Some of these initiatives have been part-funded by grants allocated from Cornwall Council’s Growth Hub Grants Programme. The Growth Hub Grants Programme is part of the Good Growth Programme, which is delivering the UK Shared Prosperity Fund in Cornwall and Isles of Scilly.
