These standards demonstrate that we have a clear strategy to reduce the use of synthetic chemicals, and that we monitor the effectiveness of these strategies annually. Windsor is also piloting an ultra-low volume herbicide system which greatly reduces the amount of chemicals being applied.

We use organic based oils such as rapeseed and vegetable oil-based chain lubricants for servicing our equipment. These are biodegradable and classed as non-water pollutants, and are therefore suitable for use in our ecologically sensitive SSSI and SPA areas. Our teams also use cordless power tools, powered by lithium-ion rechargeable batteries.

Each year Windsor produces 2,100 tonnes of organic waste on average, which is converted into compost - saving The Crown Estate approximately £156,000 per annum in addition to the environmental benefits.

The Crown Estate offices in Windsor

• All paper and plastic products purchased are made from 40% to 100% recycled materials.
• Green waste bins are distributed throughout the office, and all waste goes to recycling.
• 12 separate printers have been replaced with two document management printers.
• The carbon footprint of the server room has been reduced by virtualising our servers.

The Valley Gardens Office and Workshops

• Solar PV cells have been installed to reduce electricity consumption. 
• A solar thermal array installation on the roof helps to supply the hot water and reduce reliance on energy from the national grid.
• A rainwater harvesting system has been installed to recycle water for the toilets.
• The new toilets have been linked to a reed bed system, meaning a reduced need for waste to be regularly collected from the site.