CAMPS SUSTAINABILITY

Camp Sustainability

GUIDANCE NOTES THE CAMP WAY

Is the camp constructed in an environmentally sensitive way?

Eco-conscious construction is not only essential for the health of the environment but if done properly, can also be beneficial to the local community and surrounding areas. Wherever possible building materials are sourced locally.

Maintain indigenous trees and avoid clearing nearby vegetation.

Construct access roads, storage sites and waste disposal areas to reduce negative environmental impacts.

What considerations are made when planning a new CI camp?

Prior planning and environmental Impact assessments are crucial to ensure that CI does not have a negative impact on the chosen location or surrounding areas. CI Commissions experienced environmental consultants to undertake an EIA before construction begins. Gathers detailed information on the availability of water in the area, rare and vulnerable habitats to protect, and natural resources that can be sustainably harvested.

New developments are planned only in areas where the use of natural resources will not conflict with local community needs now or in the foreseeable future.

New camps are planned to have the lowest possible ecological impact, particularly in environmentally sensitive areas such as the coastal zone, indigenous forests, wildlife habitats and wetlands.

GUIDANCE NOTES THE CAMP WAY

What measures are in place to reduce energy consumption?

Most of the world’s energy comes from burning fossil fuels, such as coal, oil or natural gas. This results in high levels of air pollution that contribute to climate change. Conserving energy resources by using them efficiently and using clean technology wherever possible can help reduce pollution and minimise negative environmental and social impacts. Ensure that free energy sources are incorporated into every camp design such as natural light, natural heating and shading from trees where possible. Plan for cross-flow ventilation.

Position water tanks close to the point of use and install gravityfed water systems.

Reduce ‘food miles’ by using locally produced food and committing to a reduction in meat consumption over the next 3 years.

Limit energy use through specific generator times and use low-energy appliances where possible.

Encourage the use of environmentally friendly transport.

GUIDANCE NOTES THE CAMP WAY

How is the camp designed to minimise negative impacts on the area?

A well-designed camp will ensure that it is sympathetic to the surrounding environment whilst at the same time minimising any potential negative impact on the environment. Camps built using sustainably harvested, local materials in their design.

All camps designed to minimise noise and harsh lights, which may impact on local people, volunteers and wildlife.

Minimise the use of water, energy and materials to reduce future environmental costs.

Incorporate local architectural styles to improve the aesthetic impact of the development.

Consider a temporary tented camp to minimise environmental impact.

Plan landscaped areas to include local indigenous species.

Camp Sustainability

GUIDANCE NOTES THE CAMP WAY

What measures are in place for water conservation and management?

In many of our areas of operation, water is a scarce commodity where water demand far exceeds supply. Tourism also generates a lot of wastewater, which comes from laundry washing, sinks, showers and toilets. Sometimes this waste is untreated, and bacteria and chemicals are discharged directly into the environment. Poor sewage treatment can pollute ground and surface water and degrade marine resources. Roof-fed water tanks installed in camps to collect rainwater.

Dry composting toilets or low flow toilets and waterless urinals installed where possible.

Limit volunteer shower time each day and inform volunteers how they can help with water conservation.

Ensure water pipes, joints, valves and hoses are well maintained to prevent leakage.

Tap aerators and low flow shower heads installed where possible.

Separate effluent water into reusable and non-reusable streams. Use grey water from showers and basins for landscaping and in toilets.

Ensure that toilets and associated waste systems are at least 30 metres away from a water source.

Use biodegradable, phosphorous-free detergents, which lower the nutrients in effluent.

Camps International Group Limited Unit 10 Kingfisher Park, Headlands Business Park, Ringwood, Hampshire, BH24 3NX

enquiries@campsinternational.co.uk +44 (0)1425 485 395