SUSTAINABILITY POLICY
It’s really important to me as a small business owner to recognise and be mindful of the impact that my work has on the environment. Even small changes can make a meaningful difference in the world, and I’m always looking for practical ways to reduce waste, lower my carbon footprint and make more sustainable choices.
This policy sets out the steps I already take and the commitments I am making to shape my environmental impact in the future.
Travel
Travel is an unavoidable part of photographing weddings, but I aim to make every journey as efficient and environmentally responsible as possible.
My current initiatives include:
Offsetting 100% of my car’s carbon emissions through Aviva Zero, with an additional voluntary donation that ensures all my business + personal mileage is fully carbon offset.
Holding consultations and pre-wedding meetings online, significantly reducing unnecessary travel.
Working with local second photographers wherever possible, helping minimise travel on wedding days.
Reducing waste
I’ve redesigned many aspects of my business to cut down on unnecessary materials:
My wedding photography packages are now digital-only, removing the need for presentation boxes, USB sticks + additional packaging.
I run a paperless enquiry and booking process using digital contracts and invoices.
Using high-quality rechargeable batteries for all my equipment designed to last for thousands of charges.
Only purchasing equipment when I need it, including repairing kit wherever possible.
Choosing sustainable suppliers
When I do provide physical products, I try to work with suppliers who are committed to sustainability:
My wedding albums are supplied by Folio Albums, who are industry-leading with numerous environmental initiatives including FSC-certified paper, recycled packaging and carbon-neutral shipping.
I rarely use printed marketing materials, but when I do I use Moo who use FSC-certified paper among other eco-conscious commitments.
Packaging + deliveries
I have recently moved to digital-only photography packages, which removes the need for unnecessary packaging, printed materials + postal deliveries.
For couples who choose to purchase a wedding album, I reuse the original supplier packaging after checking the album over to reduce waste.
Prints are no longer included as standard and are only produced when specifically ordered, avoiding unnecessary production and waste. All of my couples have the option to order their own prints with the digital files they receive from me, which ensures that any prints that are made are ones they have specifically chosen to have physical copies of.
Looking ahead
My approach to running a sustainable business will always be an ongoing process and I’ll regularly be reviewing my commitments and ways I can improve further. Future plans include:
Continuing to make environmentally conscious purchasing decisions for my business.
Choosing a hybrid or fully electric vehicle when it’s time to replace my current car.
Finding a photographic print lab with strong environmental credentials for client print orders.
Switching my home office to a renewal electricity tariff when possible.