Environmental Policy

Louise Jenner, The Dream Job Coach®

We only have one planet, and I believe we all share responsibility for looking after it.

It’s easy to feel that the biggest environmental problems sit with large corporations and global industries. And while that’s often true, I also believe in the power of everyday choices.

Every time we buy something, choose a supplier, or decide whether we actually need something at all, we are casting a vote.

• We can choose to buy local
• We can choose organic and cruelty-free
• We can choose Fair Trade
• We can choose to reuse and recycle
• We can choose to grow some of our own food
• And we can choose to run our businesses in a thoughtful, responsible way

This environmental policy outlines the practical steps I take to minimise the environmental impact of my work and everyday life.  

Digital-first business

Most of my coaching is delivered online via Zoom. This reduces travel and the environmental impact associated with commuting and office space. Resources, exercises, and materials are shared digitally wherever possible rather than printed. 

Client records are stored securely in a cloud-based system: OnePage CRM.  Appointments are booked online via Acuity Scheduling.

Paper and printer ink are recycled.

Travel and meetings

When travel is required, I aim to minimise environmental impact by:

• combining meetings where possible
• car-sharing when practical
• using public transport
• driving a hybrid vehicle

Events and networking

Through Devon Women in Business, we organise events across Devon to support our local business community.

To minimise waste we aim to:

• keep printed materials to a minimum
• use locally printed, double-sided promotional leaflets only when needed
• choose simple catering options
• encourage car-sharing where possible
• work with local venues and suppliers

Sustainability in the Devon Women in Business Awards

Through Devon Women in Business, we also encourage businesses across Devon to think about their environmental impact. Rather than creating a single “eco-friendly” award category, we now include a sustainability question within every awards category.

This reflects our belief that environmental responsibility is relevant to every sector and every type of business. From small daily decisions to larger operational changes, we encourage applicants to consider how their work contributes to a more sustainable future.

Responsible purchasing

I strongly believe in the power of consumer choice.

Where possible, I aim to:

• support local businesses and producers
• buy thoughtfully rather than excessively
• reuse and repair items wherever practical

I also use tools such as the Yuka app when shopping for food and cosmetics to help me make more informed choices about ingredients and product quality.

Some brands I particularly enjoy using include Tropic Skincare and The Cornish Seaweed Company for hair care.

Buying fewer things but choosing better quality products can often mean spending less overall. In my experience, buying less and buying better makes it easier to live within your means rather than stretching your budget.

Food and lifestyle

Environmental responsibility doesn’t stop at the office door.

At home, I grow herbs, fruit and vegetables, compost food waste, and try to buy local and organic produce wherever possible. We also receive a regular fruit and vegetable box from Riverford Organic Farmers, supporting sustainable farming practices.

I also try to be thoughtful about everyday purchases. For example, I recently switched to Exhale Coffee, choosing a brand that focuses on quality, sustainability, and ethical sourcing.

Small decisions like these may seem minor on their own, but collectively they contribute to a more responsible way of living and doing business.

Encouraging others

Through my work as a career coach and through Devon Women in Business, I encourage clients and members to think about the wider impact of their choices, including the organisations they support, work for, and collaborate with.

Small decisions, multiplied across many people, can create meaningful change.

Ongoing commitment

Environmental responsibility is an ongoing journey. I will continue reviewing my practices and making improvements wherever possible.