2 min readSparks Bristol is a shop, community hub and exhibition space, supporting over 150 local makers and artists. Learn more in our latest Sustainability Case Study. We asked them to tell us more about their ethos and the steps they've taken to become a more sustainable organisation.
How important is sustainability to your business operation?
Our whole business is based on the UN Sustainable Development Goals – they underpin everything we do. Learn more in our Manifesto.
How do you communicate your sustainability work internally?
Every stakeholder has to sign up to the Sparks Manifesto. All traders have sustainability audits and training. We ask traders to record the number of items saved from landfill as well as other sustainability gains. We also offer training to new independent traders to help them improve their sustainability – from supply chains to packaging.
How important are local supply chains?
Very important – we support over 150 local makers and artists in Sparks.
How do you communicate this sustainability work with visitors?
Our walkway has sustainability messaging right through the store, and the Sustainable Development Goals are displayed in craftivism form in the centre. Our windows and exhibitions all bring to life aspects of the SDGs, in fun and colourful ways, with positive messaging to encourage people to come in and join in! The SDGs are also front and centre of all our comms. There are many volunteering opportunities or events and workshops to attend, e.g., to learn repair skills.
What are the benefits of striving to be a sustainable business?
It is our best way to bring in customers, as so many people now are looking for businesses that support a circular economy model. It is also affirming for our stakeholders to know they are part of a project which genuinely aspires to be sustainable and inclusive.
What are you most proud of in terms of your sustainability journey?
- Children and young people participated in climate education workshops: 4,450
- Items saved from landfill: 38,500
We also love to see how our independent traders improve their sustainability by being part of the Sparks community and advising and helping each other on the journey.
See more Impacts from the first three 3 years of Sparks
Any words of wisdom to motivate others on their own sustainability journey?
Caring for climate and nature is such a motivating thing for customers and staff, and future-proofs your business.
