A. Energy Use 1. In choosing an energy supplier, how much consideration is given to their green credentials, in terms of generating power from renewable sources? 2. If purchasing new equipment or power-driven products, how much consideration is given to opportunities for improved energy efficiency? 3. Is the use of renewable energy and other forms of more sustainable energy promoted regularly and applied where possible? 4. Has the organisation converted to energy-efficient LED bulbs for both indoor and outdoor lighting needs? 5. Is there a defined policy of only using power when needed and implementing power saving procedures? B. Water Management 1. In using water, is consideration given to all methods of re-cycling, waste reduction and conservation? 2. Have such methods been adopted where practicable. Examples would be collecting rainwater from rooves or gutters? 3. In areas such as washrooms and public areas are water saving devices fitted such as aerated shower heads, push taps etc.? 4. When irrigating surfaces such as grass, how much consideration is given to providing the correct amount of water at the right time to fulfil requirements and minimise waste? 5. Has the organisation made use of water sources other than mains supplies where practical and economic? C. Waste – its minimisation and disposal 1. Are actions taken to ensure everyone in your organisation is fully aware of the importance of minimising waste and proper re-cycling? 2. Are there procedures in place seeking to limit, reduce, or indeed eradicate waste? 3. Do similar procedures apply in terms of the use of resources such as water and other inputs? 4. Are storage facilities available in order to properly separate materials into re-cycling, green/compost and general waste? 5. Are all efforts made to reuse or recycle other materials such as paper, packaging etc. or pass on to another body who might be able to do this? D. Biodiversity 1. How well are green spaces across the organisation managed not just to be fit for purpose but with proper consideration of biodiversity and protecting wild-life and vegetation? 2. Have you any specific projects on going looking to create spaces encouraging biodiversity? 3. In its interaction with the public does your organisation seek to communicate its commitment to sustainable practice and the environment? 4. In adopting methods of weed, pest and disease management do you have procedures in place seeking to protect the environment and, where using pesticides, to properly target and minimise use? 5. Has your organisation undertaken an environmental assessment and communicated it to everyone? E. Operational Factors 1. In purchasing machinery or equipment, is sustainability a factor, such as a choice to move to battery power rather than conventional engine where appropriate and fit for purpose? 2. Are machines or equipment replaced, properly disposed of or made available for use by others? 3. In applying inputs such as fertilisers or plant protection products, is every effort made to target their use, minimising waste and run off and ensuring most effective applications? 4. In looking at choice of planting or design such as for hard surfaces, is sustainability a factor properly considered? 5. In managing weeds, pests and diseases has the organisation implemented an integrated management plan considering all options for control in the most effective and efficient manner? 6. Wherever possible, does the organisation source inputs that are packaged free of plastic? 7. Do you always recycle packaging wherever possible? 8. In purchasing decisions, is consideration given to identifying if potential suppliers have a commitment to sustainable practice? 9. Do you believe that there are other operational areas where more sustainable approaches should or could be considered? 10. Is the organisation a member of a recognised assurance scheme indicating its commitment to best practice in all its actions? F. Policy matters especially in terms of carbon emissions 1. What level of understanding do you and your organisation have of the concept of carbon foot printing and the need for carbon reduction wherever possible? 2. How well is the organisation taking positive action to reduce its carbon footprint and reduce its use of toxic materials where possible (such as cleaning products)? 3. Does the organisation put emphasis on minimising carbon emissions and consequently carbon footprint in all activities? 4. Has the organisation a sustainability policy statement and is it well communicated both internally and externally? 5. Does the organisation give priority to suppliers who demonstrate a commitment to social and environmental sustainability? 