Our Sustainability Updates
Bringing to life Evolve at Ashford Designer Outlet
Discover the latest activities within our Evolve sustainability programme, enabling us to become an increasingly more sustainable business, focusing on six key areas. To find out more about our overall Evolve programme and it's key pillars, click below.
OUR IMPACT
We are striving to protect the environment and reduce the direct environmental impact of our operations.
The "Our Impact" pillar is made up of two key focuses - Climate Action and Conscious Consumption. As part of this, we have launched the "Recycle Your Fashion" initiative to breathe new life into your old clothes.
Recycle your fashion: How does it work?
1 - Simply drop your pre-loved items off at our Guest Services Suite.
2 - All the items collected are either donated to those in need or recycled.
3 - As a thank you, you will receive 10% off for your next visit to the centre.
Solar Panels
We also have a total of 162 Solar Panels across the roofs of our newest section of the centre, above the living wall. On average, we generate the equivalent power to supply 2 and a half 4 bedroom houses for an entire years. The PV panels we have supply power to our storage facilities, saving £85,000 a year in power.
MORE WAYS WE ARE MAKING CHANGES
JOIN THE PIPE
We have installed three Join the Pipe water points to give all guests access to free water refills and encourage the reduction in the use of single use plastic bottles.
Waste Management
We aim to create as little waste as possible and divert 100% of our operational waste from landfill. We work with our brands to sort our waste, increasing the percentage of materials we recycle.
Coffee to compost
As part of our commitment to reduce catering waste, we partner with food and beverage outlets to recycle their used coffee grounds as garden fertiliser. Why not visit Guest Services to pick up a bag to take home!
OUR COMMUNITIES
Each year we partner with a local charity to support the vital work they do and help them raise funds within our community.
For 2024, we have partnered with Dandelion Time, a Kent-based charity who support children affected by trauma through connecting with nature and participating in outdoor activities.
So far, we have had face painting in-centre during the half term to raise money for Dandelion Time, and will be doing more with them throughout the year.
We have also recently revealed two bug hotels to support and sustain insects in the centre. 'Bug Ben' and 'Air Bee&Bee' were designed by children from two of our local primary schools.
OUR FOUNDATIONS
Did you know we have 10 electric car charging facilities available ... perfect for a pitstop whilst you shop!
These are located in our Southern Car Park, by the exit onto the A2070.
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