Date of Issue: 1st January 2026
Next Review Date: 1st January 2027
Approved by: Directors of artspace
1. Statement of Commitment
At artspace, we recognise that creativity and care are deeply interconnected, caring for people also means caring for the planet we share.
We are committed to minimising our environmental impact and promoting sustainable practices in every aspect of our work, from the materials we use to the way we travel, collaborate and engage with our clients.
As art therapy informed practitioners, we understand the restorative relationship between people and their environments. Our sustainability approach reflects this understanding, valuing reflection, balance and responsibility.
2. Purpose
This statement sets out our commitment to:
- Reducing waste and consumption
- Making conscious, sustainable choices about materials and suppliers
- Minimising our carbon footprint through responsible travel and operations
- Encouraging environmentally aware practice within the organisations we work with
- Embedding sustainability as a shared value across all aspects of artspace delivery
3. Scope
This statement applies to all artspace staff, associates and activities, including:
- Creative workshop design and delivery (in person and online)
- Procurement and use of art materials
- Office administration and digital communication
- Travel and event logistics
- Partnerships, contracts and collaborations
4. Our Environmental Principles
4.1 Responsible Use of Materials
- We prioritise art materials that are non-toxic, recyclable or sustainably sourced wherever possible
- We aim to minimise single-use plastics and excess packaging
- Materials are reused or repurposed wherever safe and appropriate
- We select suppliers and stockists who demonstrate environmentally responsible practices
4.2 Waste Reduction
- We actively reduce paper use by prioritising digital communication and documentation
- All non-confidential paper waste is either recycled or reused
- Creative workshop materials and artworks left behind are reused, recycled or responsibly disposed of
- We encourage participants to take their artwork with them, supporting reflection while minimising
storage and waste
4.3 Travel and Venue Choices
- We travel by public transport or shared travel whenever practical
- Online creative workshops are offered where appropriate, reducing the need for travel
- When clients provide venues, we encourage the use of accessible, energy-efficient spaces
4.4 Digital Sustainability
- We use secure, cloud-based systems that operate on energy-efficient servers
- We aim to reduce unnecessary digital storage and large file sharing
- Online sessions are delivered with minimal printing or paper use
4.5 Collaboration and Influence
- We invite conversations with clients about how creativity can support sustainability and wellbeing
within their teams - We share our practices transparently and encourage others to consider environmental impact in their
creative work
5. Continuous Improvement
artspace recognises that sustainability is a continuous process. We are committed to:
- Reviewing our practices annually and identifying areas for improvement
- Staying informed about environmentally responsible materials and suppliers
- Seeking professional advice or training where needed to enhance our sustainability efforts
- Incorporating environmental reflection into our wider business planning
6. Responsibilities
All artspace facilitators and associates share responsibility for upholding this statement. The Directors of artspace oversee:
- Monitoring implementation and progress
- Ensuring sustainable options are considered in purchasing and operations
- Reviewing supplier relationships and travel policies
7. Communication and Transparency
We share this statement with our clients, partners and participants to demonstrate our commitment to sustainability.
We welcome feedback and collaboration on how we can continue to make creative practice part of a more
sustainable and caring world.
8. Review
This statement will be reviewed annually or sooner if required by operational or environmental developments.
Updates will reflect new knowledge, materials and best practice in sustainable arts delivery.
9. Contact
artspace Environmental Leads: Sarah Edmonds and Karen Wilson
Email: hello@artspacearttherapy.co.uk
