The Deep is a conservation and education charity (Number 1073254).  Its mission is; “To create a deeper understanding and enjoyment of the world’s oceans and inspire positive change for their survival.” which it achieves through: an aquarium and science based visitor attraction, environmental education, events, species breeding programmes, field conservation projects (animals and habitats) and research projects with partner organisations. The Deep collaborates with other organisations and academic facilities to optimise its outputs. 

The Deep is committed to improving sustainability across all its activities through regular review, whilst striving for continuous improvement.

This policy outlines how The Deep plans to improve its environmental performance, reduce the carbon footprint of its activities, procure goods and provide services that have a reduced impact on the environment.

The aims of The Deep’s Environmental Policy are to:

  • Operate in a manner based on best environmental practice in our everyday operation, minimising the negative environmental impact of our organisation and its operations.
  • Commit to continuous environmental improvement and review of every aspect of its operation.
  • Demonstrate a commitment to sustainable development in all future exhibition or build plans.
  • Comply with all applicable environmental legislation and codes of practice.
  • Implement all feasible options for the reduction, reuse and recycling of waste.
  • Use raw materials and utilities as efficiently as practicable.
  • Convey to our visitors the importance of conservation, sustainability and environmental protection. 
  • Assist and learn from others, share our experiences for more impactful actions and outcomes. 
  • Be mindful of the UN Sustainability Goals and work to align in all related aspects.

In order to achieve the aims, The Deep will:

  1. Efficiently use energy, gas, water and natural resources, which will be from sustainable, renewable sources whenever appropriate or possible.
  2. Monitor and regularly review the use of these natural resources.
  3. Manage and review waste production in order to reduce the amount being produced, maximise the recycling percentage and minimise the amount going to landfill. 
  4. Comply with regulatory best practice for the disposal of controlled waste. 
  5. Meet and comply with all relevant and current legislation and regulations alongside codes of best practice related to the environment and its protection. Adhere to other standards relevant to the Zoo and Aquarium sector.
  6. Purchase all goods and services within the parameters of The Deep’s Environmental/Sustainable Purchasing Policy. 
  7. Wherever possible, eliminate the use of harmful or potentially harmful chemicals or materials in the day to day operation of its buildings and site.
  8. Encourage sustainability amongst all employees and provide sufficient levels of training to allow them to meet their environmental responsibilities.
  9. Consider supplier sustainability policies, encourage third parties to improve their environmental performance. 
  10. Raise the level of public understanding of environmental and sustainable issues through the exhibition and activities. Encourage public engagement with behaviour change campaigns, demonstrating how to make sustainable options possible.
  11. Procure deforestation free commodities in all The Deep’s major supply chains.
  12. Improve habitats for biodiversity on site through best practice of grounds management and optimise green space for diverse wildlife habitats.
  13. Treat sustainability as a priority, carefully balanced against financial, commercial and animal welfare needs.

This policy applies to all Deep premises.

Involved persons and Responsibilities:

This policy applies to all employees and volunteers of The Deep and we encourage partners, contractors and any other persons working on site to follow our aims.