• INStone is committed to minimising our environmental impact and reducing our carbon footprint through the implementation of energy-efficient technologies, renewable energy sourcing, and responsible resource management.

  To date, INStone has:

  • Installed a fully closed-loop rainwater harvesting system which operates directly with our fixed and stationary machinery. Water is recycled through settlement beds to allow natural filtration before recirculation. This system supplies 100% of operational water requirements and is also used for dust suppression. Upgraded gullies further maximise water capture and retention.

  • Transitioned to a 100% renewable electricity tariff and monitor annual energy consumption (kWh) to track performance and identify reduction opportunities.

  • Upgraded over 80% of lighting across the premises to energy-efficient LED fittings, with a commitment to achieving 100% LED coverage.

  • Installed zoned heating systems with programmable timers to reduce unnecessary energy consumption.

  • Implemented a material efficiency policy whereby the maximum usable stone is extracted from each quarried block. All remaining stone offcuts are repurposed into by-products including tumbled and crazy paving, fill material within the premises, and agricultural lime applications.

  • Segregated waste streams (metal, timber, packaging) to ensure responsible disposal and recycling.

• INStone prioritises resource conservation and sustainable sourcing practices, ensuring the responsible use of natural stone materials and promoting reuse wherever possible.

  • Over 90% of the natural stone used within INStone is locally quarried in Galway and ethically sourced, reducing transport-related emissions.

  • The remaining materials are sourced specifically for conservation and restoration projects where geological compatibility is essential to protect the architectural, archaeological, and cultural heritage of the structures entrusted to us. All such materials are ethically procured.

  • We favour Irish suppliers and consider sustainability criteria within our procurement decisions.

  • We prioritise the use of lime-based mortars, which have lower embodied carbon than cement-based alternatives and are breathable, compatible, and appropriate for historic fabric.

  • Our conservation philosophy promotes repair over replacement, extending building lifecycles and reducing long-term environmental impact.

INStone recognises that environmental impact extends beyond site operations. We therefore:

• Minimise paper usage through shared digital networks and secure PDF transfer systems.

• Avoid postal correspondence where electronic communication is appropriate.

• Utilise shared drives, drone imagery, and digital survey technologies to reduce repeat site visits and unnecessary travel.

• While travel is sometimes necessary due to the nature of conservation fieldwork, INStone seeks to minimise transport-related emissions by:

  • Avoiding unnecessary travel through online conferencing, telephone communication, and digital collaboration.

  • Encouraging the use of public transport where feasible.

  • Implementing carpooling arrangements when public transport is not viable.

  • Reducing repeat site visits through the use of drone imagery and remote data sharing.

INStone actively engages with suppliers, clients, and stakeholders to promote environmental awareness and encourage sustainable practice within the natural stone and heritage conservation sectors.

We collaborate with local organisations, government agencies, and industry partners to share best practice, contribute expertise, and advocate for environmental protection within the built heritage sector.

As active members of the Burren Ecotourism Network and the Burren & Cliffs of Moher Geopark, INStone adopts the Code of Practice for Sustainable Tourism, which addresses waste management, water stewardship, energy efficiency, wastewater management, conservation, interpretation, and visitor communication.

INStone has also engaged with the SEAI through completion of an SME Energy Audit (2023) and is currently implementing recommended improvements identified by the external assessor.

INStone complies with all relevant environmental legislation, regulations, and industry standards. We are committed to continuous monitoring and review of our environmental performance and to setting measurable objectives that reduce environmental impact and improve operational efficiency.

As INStone grows and expands its services, we recognise the need to continuously refine the scope of this Environmental Policy and establish clear, measurable objectives.

Our current objectives include:

• Achieve 100% LED lighting across the premises.

• Install on-site renewable energy (Solar PV) with the objective that by the end of 2025, a minimum of 65% of electricity demand will be generated through on-site renewables.

• Upgrade public welfare facilities to include dual-flush toilets, self-closing taps, and sensor-controlled lighting and ventilation systems to reduce water and energy waste.

• Continue implementation of SEAI Energy Audit recommendations.

• Establish measurable carbon reduction targets aligned with national climate policy.

• Continue supporting biodiversity initiatives, including native planting in collaboration with local environmental organisations.

As a centre for education and training, INStone integrates environmental responsibility into all programmes and operations.

We:

• Provide training to employees on environmental awareness, regulations, and best practice.

• Embed sustainable conservation methodologies within all INStone Academy courses.

• Promote traditional low-carbon building techniques as part of our commitment to sustainable heritage protection.

• Encourage students and participants to adopt environmentally responsible practices within their professional development.