Glenuig Inn was renovated in 2008 with sustainability at its heart. We consider the environmental impact of everything we do.
The story
The original building pre-dates the Jacobite Rising of 1745 and is nestled in a relatively remote bay on the Sound of Arisaig in the West Highlands of Scotland.
During the renovation and to the present day, by implementing a host of initiatives covering all aspects of environmental management we endeavour to minimise our carbon footprint.
Also important is preserving the environment around us, so encouraging biodiversity and protecting the very thing that the area is renowned for . . . beautiful unspoilt countryside, coastline and waters.
In reality, that means that we use 100% renewable energy, we minimise the use of single use plastics, we process all our food waste in a digester and we use local products as far as possible.
Renewable Energy
The inn operates using 100% renewable energy from biomass for heating and hot water and 100% green electricity sourced as locally as possible from hydro schemes. The biomass boiler uses wood pellet and up to 10% by volume of dried & sterilised food waste incorporated into it.
Food Waste
Our Food Waste Dryer (Digester) dries and sterilises all the food waste on site. Some of this mixed with wood pellet in the biomass boiler to provide heating and hot water, and the rest is used in the community garden.
Organic Fertiliser
The ash from the biomass boiler, which still contains the minerals and calcium from the dried food waste, is used in the community garden.
Waste to landfill
We work really hard to keep our waste to landfill low by recycling and reusing wherever possible. We employ a Packaging Take Back scheme and enjoy huge support for this from our local suppliers.
Sustainable supply chain management
We work with our suppliers to get deliveries in as large quantities as possible to reduce the carbon impact of transport. We look for suppliers with green credentials, and positively seek those whose supply ethos aligns with our drive to reduce reliance upon re-cycling.
We source products which are as local, natural and healthy as possible, and out of preference buy from small independent suppliers with green credentials.
Insulation
The main building is wrapped externally with insulation (like a duvet) meaning that everything within it contributes to the thermal mass, thus creating a stable internal temperature, as well as making the building energy efficient. The breathable wood fibre insulation also acts as a carbon sink.
Single Use Plastic
We avoid buying single use plastics and do not offer plastic straws. Instead when you stay, we use a natural and organic shower and soap from dispensers in the rooms and we offer a flask of fresh milk for coffee and teas.
Laundry
Our on site laundry facility allows us to reduce the environmental impact of unnecessary transport. We also attempt to dry as much of our laundry outside as is physically possible on the West Coast!
