At Veolia, we are committed to preserving biodiversity and promoting sustainable practices that protect our precious ecosystem. We believe in striking a balance between our operations and the natural environment.
Ecological Management Plan and Biodiversity Baselines
Veolia’s Green Spaces Charter guides our approach to fostering biodiversity on the sites where we operate. Using the Green Spaces Charter we have reviewed and updated the Ecological Management Plan for our two largest sites, the Ballynacor Wastewater Treatment Plant in Co. Armagh and the Clareville Water Treatment Plant in Co. Limerick. We have also completed plans for our office in Kilkenny, our hazardous waste management facility in Fermoy, Co. Cork and our Donaghadee Wastewater Treatment Plant in Co Down.
These plans help identify existing areas that require protection and explore opportunities for further improvement.
To assist smaller sites in enhancing their biodiversity management, we have created a site Biodiversity Baseline. The baseline records habitats currently on the sites and the current management practices for these areas 7 sites across Ireland have completed their Biodiversity Baseline.
All-Ireland Pollinator Plan
As a business supporter of the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan, we are committed to carrying out pollinator-friendly actions each year. We embrace initiatives such as "No Mow May". By allowing wildflowers to bloom and dedicating areas for natural growth, we're providing a haven for pollinators like bees and butterflies. Many of our sites have dedicated areas for ‘No Mow’ all year round.
Planters, Insect houses and bug hotels
Our employees have embraced Veolia’s commitment to biodiversity and have led the way by implementing a range of actions on their sites.
Planters
Our hazardous waste team working on a customer site in Co. Kildare has made and installed planters made from old wooden pallets and recycled peat moss.
Insect house
At our Kilkenny office we have created an insect house along with a bug hotel using leftover materials from a local hardware store, including bricks and pallets that could be recycled and repurposed, along with other materials provided by the staff in Kilkenny.
Bug hotel
The Osberstown Sludge Hub team also built a bug hotel, which has already become a popular residence for various insects. A queen wasp has taken up residency, and we've also spotted bumble bees, honey bees, and even a caterpillar making themselves at home. It's heartwarming to see these pollinators thriving and feeding on the flowers of the goats willow growing around the plant.
Squirrel picnic table and bird boxes
More than these structures, one of our Osberstown employees crafted a delightful picnic table to feed the squirrels at our Blessington wastewater treatment plant. This thoughtful addition provides a cosy spot for our furry friends to enjoy their meals.
We've also installed new bird boxes and have more boxes ready to be placed. We already have a pair of Bluetits nesting in one of our boxes, although capturing a clear photo has been a challenge. Their presence is a testament to the success of our efforts.
These biodiversity initiatives are just a small step towards creating a more sustainable future for all. We're proud of our team's dedication and look forward to continuing our efforts in promoting ecological harmony.
Supporting local communities
Veolia in Ireland operates a community sponsorship programme called Veolia Connect where staff can obtain funding for projects which they are personally involved with.