At Bellingen Honey, sustainability is at the core of everything we do. We are committed to protecting the environment, supporting our community, and ensuring that our operations have a positive impact on the world around us.

We received the Eco tourism Australia strive 4 sustainability scorecard at a score of 91% for 2024 and will keep striving to find the best way to recycle, reuse and promote a circular economy.

Here’s how we’re making a difference:

1. Eco-Friendly Buildings

• Recycled Materials: Since we began our journey 5 years ago we have strived to utilise recycled materials and a policy of reuse for all of our Bellingen Honey furniture and fittings as well as the renovation of the Barn. where possible we have constructed using recycled and sustainably sourced materials, ensuring minimal impact on natural resources.  For example, The Barn utilised local reclaimed timbers, local sustainably harvested hardwood and recycled windows and furniture.  The Honey factory was kitted out with 10m2 of work benches and storage using a reclaimed skate ramp that the kids had used for the previous 5 years.

1. Renewable Energy

• Solar Power: Our operations are powered by 10KW of solar energy that we installed soon after purchasing 18 south street in 2017, harnessing the sun’s power to run our facilities efficiently and sustainably as well as our house which is above the studio and adjacent to the barn.

1. Waste Management

• Increased Recycling: We have implemented waste management practices to increase recycling and reduce landfill waste. All waste is carefully sorted to maximise recycling efforts. 
• We have a food garden and had chooks for many years, we grow vegetables, herbs and fruit utilising the hugelKultur beds we created when we removed all the non native weed trees on the property in the first year of ownership. Our wormfarms help recycle scraps, turning them into magic soil to grow our own food.

1. Sustainable Packaging

• Recycled and Compostable packaging: Our product packaging is made from recycled and compostable materials provided by heapsgood.com.au
• Recycled Product Jars: We encourage our customers to return used product jars for cleaning and reuse. As a thank you, we offer a discount on their next purchase.

1. Bee Management

• Positive Environmental Impact: Our beekeeping practices are designed to have a positive impact on the environment, supporting healthy bee populations and biodiversity.

1. Water Conservation

• Minimal Water Use: We prioritise the minimal use of water in our operations.
• Rainwater Tanks: We plan to install rainwater tanks to further reduce our reliance on municipal water supplies.

1. Community Engagement

• Local communities and Non-Profit Organisations: We work closely with local communities and non-profit organisations to support and promote sustainable practices.
• Staff Volunteering: Our employees are encouraged to volunteer their time for local clubs and good causes, strengthening our community bonds.

1. Reducing Our Footprint

• Battery-Powered Vehicle: We use a battery-powered hybrid vehicle for all our transport needs, reducing our carbon footprint and reliance on fossil fuels.
• Continuous Improvement: We are committed to actively reducing our environmental footprint at every step of our operations, constantly seeking new ways to improve our sustainability practices.

At Bellingen Honey, we believe that sustainability is not just a responsibility, but an opportunity to lead by example and inspire others. We are dedicated to creating a sustainable future for our community, our customers, and the planet.

Bellingen Honey

www.bellohoney.com.au