Making sustainability a core value: Guidance for navigation authorities In this guide

1. Introduction

2. W hat is sustainability?

3. Governm ent policy and legislation

4. W hat can navigation authorities do?

5. Current policy by navigation authorities

6. Guidance and case studies

6.1 Appraisal of im pacts and opportunities British W aterways Sustainability Register

6.2 Using sustainable resources for navigation authority work Essex W aterways: Bank repairs on the Chelmer & Blackwater Navigation Auchinstarry Basin, Forth & Clyde Canal: a sustainable approach to marina construction Brierley Hill, W est Midlands: Towpath refurbishment Kennet & Avon: Recycled glass for shot blasting

6.3 Reducing waste and landfill: recycling and reuse of m aterials River W eaver: Tree management Cardiff Harbour Authority: Sustainable waste management Bristol Harbour Authority: Floating Harbour Fradley Junction: Visitor facilities with recycled materials

6.4 Minim ising the contribution to clim ate change 6.4.1 Energy efficiency and renewables Kennet & Avon Canal: Solar powered cattle trough Stone, Staffs: Canalside lighting Various locations: SCADA telemetry bollards , Tannant Feeder: Solar energy to power meter house Navigation: Proposed hydro power installation : W ind turbines 6.4.2 Reducing road traffic Gloucester Docks: Travel plan River W elland: Spalding water taxi

6.5 Planning and m onitoring for sustainability: Checklist Kennet & Avon Canal: Sustainability monitoring

7. Sum m ary

Appendix: W eblinks, References

W e would like to thank Defra for its continuing support as this document is a product of its research funding for AINA.

Page 2 1. Introduction

It is difficult to ignore the importance of sustainability. Daily Sustainability must become a core value for all navigation news items on climate change, international commitments authorities. Everyone needs to make a contribution and this and emerging legislation constantly bring the subject to our document shows how navigation authorities can play their attention. W hether driven by legislation, economics or social part. Since sustainable development is a wide and cross- responsibility, it has become an increasingly important priority cutting subject, there is undoubtedly a need to initially for government, business and individuals. prioritise any actions. Operating sustainably will also mean that navigation authorities are able to comply more easily Indeed, Government has now followed up its 2005 UK with the requirements of the W ater Framework Directive and Strategy for Sustainable Development, entitled ”Securing the other European legislation. Future‘, with a broader vision for ”one planet living‘. It has also established a range of sustainable development indicators against which performance will be measured. All W hy is it im portant for navigation authorities organisations now have a role to play in helping to meet to address sustainability? national targets.

Local authorities and other agencies are becoming more Sustainability is a priority for all navigation accountable for their performance in promoting and authorities both nationally and locally. By working implementing sustainable practices. Many have set relevant sustainably you will: priorities to help influence the way sustainability is applied to projects, planning applications and procurement. ñ show a commitment to the future Furthermore support and funding from public bodies, such as the National Lottery, is increasingly being linked to ñ help meet legal requirements sustainability, placing an onus on partners to prove their ñ conserve and improve the environmental and social credentials. environment ñ mitigate against the impacts of It is essential that navigation authorities are able to understand and respond to sustainability issues and the climate change inland waterways industry needs to be proactive in this ñ help save money and resources regard throughout their operations. Indeed, the larger ñ win friends and influence others navigation authorities have already demonstrated their commitment by developing and maintaining their waterways in a sustainable manner by adopting policies and formulating guidance. The smaller independent authorities will also In addition, it will help to integrate this document‘s messages benefit from practicable and cost effective guidance. on sustainability when applying any of AINA‘s other good Navigation authorities need to be aware of increasing public practice guidance material across operational issues which expectations and understand that their work in this field will are available by visiting www.aina.org.uk help to meet some of their wider objectives. AINA has identified the impacts of day-to-day operational work as being an area where their members can make a difference and can demonstrate that their performance is improving. The core of this guide therefore relates to these aspects of their work.

Page 3 2. W hat is sustainability? 3 . G o vernm ent policy and legislation

Sustainability means many things to many people. In simple In 2005, the UK Government launched its new strategy for terms it means ensuring the well-being and quality of life for sustainable development, ”Securing the Future‘. This states everyone, now and for generations to come, by meeting that a major shift is now needed to help deliver new products, social and environmental as well as economic needs. W ise services and ways of working which as a lower impact on the decisions need to be made to balance these needs so that environment and which benefits society. Defra oversees the there is a net overall benefit, and so that limited impacts on delivery of the Strategy, but all public and private sector one parameter can be balanced by greater gains on the other organisations, regardless of any formal duties now share a two. It means considering the wider impacts of our actions, responsibility for ensuring that sustainability is built into their creating a culture of responsibility which is often described as work. ”think globally, act locally‘. Five shared UK-wide principles are listed in ”Securing the Perhaps the most widely used definition, used by the Future‘. These have been agreed by the UK Government, Bruntland Commission when reporting for the United Nations Scottish Executive, W elsh Assembly Government and the in 1987, is: Northern Ireland Administration, and are being used to guide production of subsequent policy in each country. 'Development which meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability for future generations to meet their Priority areas identified for immediate action are as follows: own needs.' Sustainable Consum ption and Production International pressure and climate change have subsequently Sustainable consumption and production broadly aims to provided the impetus for further worldwide action, and over achieve more with less. This means not only looking at how the past 20 years there has been a growing realisation that goods and services are produced, but also the impacts of current growth and development is unsustainable. In other products and materials across their whole lifecycle. words we are living beyond our means. From loss of biodiversity to the increased use of resources, our way of life Clim ate Change and Energy has been placing an increasing burden on the environment The effects of a changing climate can already be seen, and which can no longer be sustained. scientific evidence points to human activity as the primary cause of the release of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide and methane. The Government seeks to secure a profound change in the way energy is generated and used and is determined to set a good example for others to follow.

The 2007 Climate Change Bill recognised the threats presented by climate change and energy consumption, and the Government is now committed to reducing the country‘s greenhouse gas emissions. The Bill will set legally-binding targets of a 60% reduction by 2050, with a 26-32% reduction by 2020. W hilst further investment in renewable energy will take place, energy efficiency measures will now need to be considered by all.

Natural Resource Protection and Environm ental Enhancem ent Prudent use of natural resources is vital. W e need to better understand our environmental limits to ensure that everyone lives in a good quality environment. This aspiration needs to be backed by a more integrated policy framework.

Sustainable Com m unities The government aims to create sustainable communities that embody the principles of sustainable development at a local level. This involves working to give communities more say in the decisions that affect them, and working in partnership at The simple diagram above shows how environmental, the right levels to ensure that plans are implemented. economic and social issues overlap and influence the ways in which navigation authorities can plan to achieve sustainable development as part of their work and operations.

Page 4 4. W hat can navigation authorities do?

Sustainability should optimise the potential of our canals, The day-to-day operational work of navigational authorities rivers and navigations so that both present and future brings with it a range of environmental impacts which can be generations can contribute to their local environment, culture, minimised through careful good practice. Sustainable economy and quality of life, whilst minimising negative approaches to work can play a role in helping to meet both environmental and social consequences. national and local targets, and can also help to show that a good environment is good for business. Simple practical W hilst this document focuses on the resource issues measures, often at no cost, can be adopted. This not only associated with sustainability, navigation authorities should benefits the environment but also helps to save money too œ also remember to consider the social and economic and every little action has value and merit. outcomes of their work. These might include opportunities to engage with local people and wider communities, to provide facilities for disabled persons, and to secure longer term income streams to help support future improvement and investment. (Earlier guidance documents produced by AINA have included best practice on some of these topics.)

The built and natural heritage of our inland waterways is integral to their special character and value and their conservation and enhancement is therefore fundamental to sustainable waterway management. Built heritage, local character and biodiversity should all be considered at the outset of operational or maintenance work, and, using professional expertise and skills, included as part of any project appraisal. A range of guidance and best practice is available from other sources (see Appendix).

Page 5 5. Current policy by navigation authorities

Already a number of navigation authorities have shown their Their statement of commitment lists a number of key actions, commitment to sustainability by preparing and adopting including: policies to help guide and influence their work. The following examples illustrate best practice in developing policy for ñ reducing energy consumption and CO2 emissions sustainability on our waterways. ñ increasing energy efficiency

ñ increasing the use of renewable energy British W aterways, for example, has made a commitment to maintaining and developing its waterways in a sustainable ñ reducing the amount of waste going to landfill way and aims to balance the following needs when carrying ñ reducing environmental impacts arising from the out work: consumption of energy ñ promoting sustainable design and development ñ recognising the needs of customers and local ñ raising public awareness and promoting communities œ through access, leisure, education and energy efficiency community involvement ñ training and educating staff on policies to reduce ñ looking after the environment, heritage and fabric of energy consumption the waterways ñ increasing the amount of recycling. ñ generating income to ensure the upkeep of our waterways Cardiff Harbour Authority also publishes a strategic ñ minimising waste and using energy and resources as action plan for its sustainability work which includes targets to efficiently as possible. measure its energy consumption and waste on a monthly basis and monitors progress against a series of key British W aterways has also developed a number of corporate performance indicators. These targets include using energy initiatives to promote sustainability across its work. These from biomass and solar panels, decreasing office include a sustainability register to record and monitor the consumables and increasing the percentage of total waste impacts of operational projects, annual targets for the use of collected from Cardiff Bay which is subsequently segregated recycled aggregates, a policy to ensure that sustainable for recycling. timber is used across all projects, and a national campaign to reduce energy consumption and CO2 emissions. In addition, The Broads Authority is also actively pursuing the social aspects of sustainability have been given priority sustainable initiatives. Its recently published Sustainability and efforts have been undertaken to ensure that the Guide includes advice on minimising impacts, designing to waterway network is accessible to all, regardless of adapt to climate change, energy efficiency, choice of background or physical ability. materials, and understanding the importance of conserving limited natural resources. Recycling, renewable energy, A sustainable approach underlies all work undertaken by the redevelopment work and ways of reducing pollution are also Environm ent Agency. As an example, their Thames covered. The Guide also emphasises that any change or W aterway Plan aims to ”map out the reinvigoration of leisure management plans have to be carried out within the context and tourism along the river corridor in ways that are both of the waterway —only by paying proper regard to the existing socially inclusive and sustainable‘. A Strategic Sustainability character of a place can informed and responsible decisions Assessment (SSA) was carried out in order to inform and be made, and sustainable future landscapes planned for.“ appraise the evolving plan against sustainable development principles. This allowed likely effects from a social, economic and environmental perspective to be assessed, and a number of sustainability objectives have subsequently been applied covering a wide range of work. Appraisal of these has RECOMMENDATION 1 shown that whilst many of the proposed policies are likely to bring major sustainable benefits, some do have the potential to cause significant negative effects. All navigation authorities should prepare a The challenge accepted by the Environment Agency and sustainability policy or statem ent of intent. their partners is to find an acceptable balance between This will be useful to share with partners and potentially conflicting objectives. Future work therefore aims funding agencies, and will help prove your to identify those operations which, through careful planning, can begin to make positive contributions to the sustainable com m itm ent and credentials. management of the Thames corridor. Examples identified include reducing waste, water conservation measures and reducing the risk of flooding.

Cardiff Harbour Authority has also developed strong measures to ensure that its work raises public awareness of sustainability and minimises environmental impact.

Page 6 6. Guidance and case studies

The following sections outline a number of approaches to sustainability in a waterway context, and a range of case studies describe specific projects and schemes where navigation authorities have been able to successfully put sustainability into action.

6.1 Appraisal of im pacts and opportunities

6.2 Using sustainable resources for navigation authority work

6.3 Reducing waste and landfill: recycling and reuse of m aterials

6.4 Minim ising the contribution to clim ate change

6.5 Planning and m onitoring for sustainability: Checklist

6.1 Appraisal of im pacts and opportunities

In order to ensure that our inland waterways are managed and ñ CEEQUAL (Civil Engineering Environmental Quality developed sustainably the key impacts and opportunities at Assessment and Awards Scheme) both a strategic and project level need to be understood. It is ñ BREEAM (Building Research Establishment‘s useful to establish a baseline. Begin by auditing the present Environmental Assessment Method) situation, then develop clear plans with required actions and ñ Considerate Constructor‘s scheme timescales, and monitor them against progress towards any set

targets. In addition, it is good practice to equally appraise day-to-day

operational work that may not always be project based. This W hilst this guide outlines some of the key issues and actions to might include maintenance, management and small scale consider, it is also recommended that sustainability appraisal repair work which can often form a significant component of processes are used to help so that there is a more rigorous expenditure by smaller navigational authorities. In these cases and transparent approach to project planning. It may be a simplified approach to any initial appraisal may suffice, but it appropriate for some appraisal work to be generic, is important to make sure that best practice solutions are supplemented by a site-specific assessment of issues such as implemented. Navigation authorities could develop and adopt a biodiversity and heritage, but at a project level (particularly for code or checklist, to be used as a standard procedure, to larger schemes) completion of a site specific appraisal is ensure sustainability is considered and accounted for, no recommended. matter how small the work. (see also section 6.4).

A number of accredited appraisal processes and toolkits are available for use, some of which are specific to certain types or scales of project, and may require a level of expert guidance. These include:

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CASE STUDY: British W aterways Sustainability Register

British W aterways has developed a Sustainability Register to appraise and assess the sustainability performance of its operational projects. This enables British W aterways to:

ñ understand and record sustainability performance at a project level ñ allow internal and external reporting ñ ensure that project managers consider the sustainability benefits and impacts of their work ñ help improve performance through set objectives and targets ñ share best practice

The Register is both an appraisal tool - to help identify the key environmental, social and economic impacts of a project in order to guide its planning and implementation - and a mechanism to help monitor the delivery of sustainability at project level in order to drive continuous improvement.

Each project is assessed and scored against 17 sustainability indicators covering a range of environment, social, economic and resource management issues. Both an anticipated score and an actual score are determined to ensure sustainability is a key influence in the project‘s planning, funding, implementation and post-project appraisal.

RECOMMENDATION 2

All navigation authorities should appraise day to day operational and m aintenance work as well as larger and m ore com plex projects, from a sustainability perspective.

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6.2 Using sustainable resources for waterway m anagem ent

Navigation authorities are involved in a wide range of ñ Consider the water itself! As well as strategic water operational, repair and management work, which together offer conservation issues, sustainability measures to save or real scope to consider the ways in which natural resources are reduce water loss can be applied via the installation of applied and used. Efforts can also be undertaken to minimise backpumping or methods to monitor water levels use of non-renewable resources, where possible seeking ñ W ater conservation and flood alleviation measures can suitable alternatives or specifications. The use of ”green‘ be built into projects, including rainwater collection, specifications combined with an approach which embraces sustainable urban drainage systems (commonly known whole life cost can help to both minimise the use of natural as SUDS), water attenuation systems (sometimes resources and incorporate a range of recycled or recovered referred to as swales), and porous surfacing to external materials. The internal environment should not be forgotten areas such as paths and car parks either, and there are many straightforward ways to adopt ñ Small scale conservation measures can make a sustainable practice in offices and other premises. The difference too, such as water metering, leak detection following examples are by no means exhaustive, but are listed systems, low flush and grey water recycling toilets, and in order to stimulate thoughts and forward planning. taps which turn off

ñ Office consumables are now available in many different ñ Consider sustainability issues when procuring supplies, forms which enable and encourage everyone to use contractors and consultants œ ask whether your sustainable options, for example recycled paper and suppliers have commitments to the environment, think cartridges. W ays of reducing waste can be considered about distances to be travelled, and remember the too, for example replacing throwaway cups with importance of likely benefits to the local economy traditional glasses ñ Research and specify recycled aggregates and the use ñ Think about innovation œ what could be done that might of other recycled materials as appropriate be new or different? Examples include the use of ñ Always specify timber from a supplier accredited by the recycled plastics or the installation of composting toilets Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC) and use ”green‘ in isolated locations bioengineering and soft bank protection work whenever possible œ this will often be cheaper, as well as being visually more appealing, and will provide important biodiversity benefits for wildlife

CASE STUDY: Essex W aterways Lim ited: Bank repairs on the Chelm er & Blackwater Navigation

Bank erosion on the Chelmer & Blackwater Navigation forced Essex W aterways to carry out remedial work to prevent further collapse. W ith limited available funding, a low cost sustainable solution was sought which could be implemented with volunteer support. Restricted site access was a further constraint.

On a nearby quayside with road access volunteers filled Hessian sacks with clay, which were then transported to site by workboat and installed by another group of helpers. The sacks were held in place by locally sourced timber stakes, and sown with a grass/wild flower mix on completion. The towpath was subsequently made good with recycled crushed concrete.

This proved to be an effective and flexible response, especially since a clay source was locally available. The clay bags can be filled and reactivated by soaking, and the solution has been flexible, cost-effective and sustainable.

The volunteer workforce was provided by the W aterway Recovery Group, and whilst external funding was not sought, future works by Essex W aterways may be eligible for funding assistance for towpath reinstatement where this is a public footpath or bridleway.

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CASE STUDY: Auchinstarry Basin, Forth & Clyde Canal: a sustainable approach to m arina construction

British W aterways has adopted a sustainable approach in the construction of a new 50 berth basin at Auchinstarry on the , which includes hardstanding for boats, an amenity block and slipway. The project has made full use of recycled materials including, for example, locally sourced aggregates which were used for sub bases and road surfacings - approximately 15,000 m3 was used which saved £35,000 on the contract price. In addition, surplus steel and concrete submarine support pads were obtained at no cost (transport excepted) from Rosyth Dockyard and used in the construction of the slipway and crane pad, resulting in a further £10,000 cost saving.

An alternative secondary filtration system has been developed for waste water which discharges directly into newly created reed beds with the capacity to accommodate future development on the site. Surface water drainage run off is reduced by applying permeable surfacing to car parks and boat hardstandings, and the basin edge has been designed with soft edges which incorporate reinforced soil techniques. These are not only visually appropriate, but they bring biodiversity benefits as well as cost savings.

Two wind turbines provide all of the electricity demands outside peak periods, and the amenity block incorporates energy conservation mechanisms such as movement-activated lighting and time limited water control. Installation of a heat exchanger is also planned, which would use the to provide the amenity block with hot water and convection heating.

CASE STUDY: Brierley Hill, W est Midlands : Towpath refurbishm ent

As part of a towpath improvement project in the Black Country, British W aterways worked in partnership with Tarmac Recycling to produce a sustainable alternative to the traditionally used black ash surfacing. Tarmac‘s ”Finepath‘ was considered to be a suitable replacement since it is a self- cementing, hydraulically bound product (5mm down to dust) which is energy efficient and made from carefully blended constituents.

”Finepath‘ includes blastfurnace slag, steel slag fines, and self- coloured quarry dusts, though it may be laid in a range of colours to suit its local context. Approximately 180 tonnes were used at Brierley Hill, resulting in a reduced demand for conventional aggregates as well as a reduction in landfill. By using materials from a sustainable source a cost saving was achieved, and the suppliers of the secondary materials were able to avoid paying Landfill Tax.

The work at Brierley Hill has shown that ”Finepath‘ forms an ideal sustainable surface for multi-use paths for pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders and is also capable of accepting occasional heavier traffic. Compared to traditional materials it also benefits from an improved resistance to frost-heave.

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CASE STUDY: Kennet & Avon Canal: Recycled glass for shot blasting

The Kennet & Avon Canal was reopened in 1990 and since The use of recycled glass grit brought environmental benefits then further restoration and maintenance work has taken place. since it is a non-toxic and inert material which does not contain At Caen Hill, west of Devizes, the canal is famous for the 28 heavy metal residues featured in some other applications. locks which rise dramatically over a distance of three Other benefits included a lower bulk density compared to kilometres. Adjacent to the main flight is a series of large side traditional materials, and no additional disposal costs since the ponds, rich in wildlife, where canal boats wait their turn to use spent glass grit could be safely left on the ground. In addition, the locks. there is a plentiful national supply, and the process did not require any major capital expenditure on new equipment. The British W aterways has to annually repaint the balance raw material costs were comparable with those of abrasives beams and paddle standards to ensure that the system traditionally used by the shot blast industry. remains in good repair. A high quality shot blast abrasive was required which could be safely and effectively used near water to remove previously applied multiple layers of paint so that a more durable coat could be applied with minimal environmental impact. Concerns were expressed of the possibility of spent abrasive falling into the canal, so glass grit œ made from recycled glass - was used. This was the preferred solution since it met the strict requirements of British W aterways Environmental Code of Practice.

W hilst grit blast abrasives are used to clean and prepare a wide range of materials by firing a granular or powdered abrasive using high-pressure air or water, glass grit is increasingly recognised as a safe, sustainable, environmentally responsible and cost-effective alternative. Glass grit can remove paint and corrosion from steelwork, clean masonry, renovate equipment and restore woodwork as effectively, and in some cases more successfully, than traditional abrasives such as copper slag or stonegrit. Using 9.5 tonnes of recycled glass grit graded between 0.75 and 1 mm, it took a two-man contracting team ten days to clean and repaint 500 square Kennet & Avon Canal - shot blasting metres of steel. using recycled glass

The innovative use of sustainable glass grit enabled British W aterways to undertake a blasting project in an environmentally sensitive location which also satisfied their objective of achieving an excellent surface finish.

RECOMMENDATION 3

All navigation authorities should recognise that natural resources are finite œ whether you‘re planning engineering works or just restocking the office cupboard, always consider options and supplies which are sustainable or re-useable.

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6.3 Reducing waste and landfill: Recycling and reuse of m aterials

A sustainable approach should aim to reduce, reuse and For example, waste concrete from demolition activities could recycle all waste which is generated through either office or be sent to a suitable recycling facility instead of landfill, and site work. Opportunities for waste minimisation include careful receptacles could be provided for the segregation of solid design and procurement in construction and operational work. waste prior to collection for later recycling. Consideration can Examples include reducing the need to remove materials from be given to using some waste materials, such as timber, as an site, obtaining products in reusable packaging or containers, alternative but efficient source of fuel, and dredgings too can and purchasing pre-fabricated materials. Including recycled be used or disposed of in different ways, though hazardous content targets within contracts will both help stimulate demand and non-hazardous materials need to be treated accordingly. for recycled goods and ensure that a project is seen to be progressing sustainably. In addition, efforts should be made to store redundant materials for suitable reuse elsewhere. Specific waterway The reuse or recycling of materials is an obvious sustainability features include stone copings, lock beams and piling measure which can be adopted through forward planning and materials, and there are now many examples of the ways in appraisal of on-site operations. Examples include the use of which such materials have been put to creative use. recycled aggregates for towpath surfacing, chipping of tree off cuts for use as mulch, or the simple task of providing wildlife It is also important to consider opportunities to minimise waste habitat in the form of log piles. on a day-to-day basis. The installation of customer recycling facilities and the education of staff and visitors would be Best practice in managing waste as part of operational work excellent steps in this direction. can be achieved through a site waste management plan which can help to identify opportunities for recycling materials.

CASE STUDY: River W eaver: Tree m anagem ent

Increasingly tighter legislation together with a reducing number of landfill sites mean that waterway operations need to consider sustainable and creative ways of dealing with all sorts of waste. In response, British W aterways has developed new ways of dealing with timber arising as a result of tree management work on the River W eaver in Cheshire. Solutions include using the shredded timber for mulching purposes, and investigating the future potential for pelleting as a fuel for heating boilers.

Survey work revealed that clearing of overhanging vegetation may lead to increased freight movement in the upper stretches of the river.

By developing a more sustainable way of working, a number of positive benefits have been achieved in addition to finding a greener end use for the wood waste:

ñ reduced landfill costs ñ cost savings on weed control materials

ñ good relationships with the local community

ñ habitat improvements by leaving wood piles and tree stumps ñ reduced CO2 emissions by avoiding unnecessary haulage and using local labour ñ opportunities for staff training

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CASE STUDY: Cardiff Harbour Authority: Sustainable waste m anagem ent

Cardiff Harbour Authority has a range of statutory duties prescribed by the Cardiff Bay Barrage Act 1993, and is operationally responsible for the management of the Barrage, Cardiff Bay and part of the Rivers Taff and Ely.

The Barrage created a 200 hectare freshwater lake and one of the Harbour Authority‘s key aims is to maintain the best environmental standards throughout the Bay whilst also minimising the impact of its activities.

The Rivers Taff and Ely flow into Cardiff Bay and during periods of high rainfall carry significant amounts of litter and debris. As a result, one of the Authority‘s environmental management operations is the collection of waste from the surface and edges of the water. This is carried out using a specially equipped vessel which scoops up the debris using a mechanical arm. Annually, approximately 1000 tonnes of debris is now recovered from the Bay. W ood comprises 70% of this waste in the form of tree trunks, branches and twigs and before the Barrage was built this would have been deposited along the shorelines of the Severn Estuary.

In accordance with its sustainability policy, and in order to reduce the volume of waste going to landfill, Cardiff Harbour Authority segregates all clean and bulky timber. A 49 kW biomass boiler (costing £40,000) has been installed in one of its buildings to provide heating and hot water. Biomass production is recognised as a ”carbon neutral‘ technology because the burning of timber does not increase carbon emissions, since the amount of carbon released equals that absorbed by plants as they grow.

The biomass boiler is fuelled by waste wood salvaged from the Bay. Clean and bulky timber is stockpiled, dried naturally, chipped and fed into the boiler. Between January 2006 and December 2007, 94 tonnes of wood was salvaged and diverted from landfill, of which 48 tonnes was used to fuel the biomass boiler. Surplus wood may be converted into firewood for wood burning stoves.

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CASE STUDY: Bristol Harbour Authority: Floating harbour

A major regeneration project adjacent to Bristol Harbour, ”Earthwood‘ is made using 95% recycled materials and is itself located on a complex brownfield site near the city centre, has completely recyclable. Importantly, it contains no harmful provided Bristol with a new series of public spaces, attractive chemicals, glues, preservatives or agents, and it was leisure uses in refurbished industrial buildings and new considered for Bristol Harbour on the grounds of sustainability, waterside housing and boat facilities. safety and low maintenance requirements.

New moorings have been provided as part of the development, As a high density composite material it will not suffer from wet incorporating a large floating reed-bed area which has visual, or dry rot, and neither is it prone to attack by wood boring ecological and water-quality benefits, for example surface insects, thus reducing the need for repair or replacement. It is water drainage from the development is filtered through the also expected that its non-slip performance will exceed hard or reed-beds. These environmental improvements are part of soft wood timber decking in both wet or dry conditions (it has wider campaigns called ”Get On Board‘ and the Bristol Living been tested and approved to British Standards for its anti-slip/ Rivers Project, which seek to protect and improve skid resistance). In addition, the decking can be power washed environmental quality in the Floating Harbour as well as all of without affecting its anti-slip properties and no harsh cleaning Bristol‘s watercourses over the long term. solutions or chemicals is required

Mooring pontoons have been developed using a novel material. ”Earthwood‘ decking is manufactured from a mix of post-industrial and post-consumer polymers, typically from bottles, drums and sheeting material. These are sourced from recycling companies within the UK and Ireland, whilst the wood-flour component is a by-product from timber production in Scotland The forests from which the wood is sourced are FSC regulated, though since it ultimately contains less than 70% wood it cannot be formally certified as an FSC product.

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CASE STUDY: Fradley Junction: Visitor facilities with recycled m aterials

The former canal reservoir at Fradley Junction, where the meets the , has recently found a new lease of life as a nature reserve and angling pool. British W aterways has carefully opened up access to the surrounding woodland to create an attractive trail around the pool which is now suitable for all visitors. W aterside features include a series of angling platforms, a specially designed circular pond dipping deck, and a boardwalk across the marshy part of the pool. All have been constructed from black recycled plastic, which has the benefit of being long lasting and rot proof and has been formed with slip reducing surfaces. Seats and fencing have also been built using sustainable recycled plastic. The main circular footpath was built from 100% recycled aggregates (type one stone and dust) and was designed to meet access for all standards. A key feature is the newly built bird hide, constructed using timber with a thatched roof, and habitats are now managed to promote biodiversity. Local schools were invited to participate in the design of features on site, including timber sculptures and seats carved with images of the local wildlife.

The circular decking at Fradley Pool was designed to cater for pond dipping activity and was constructed entirely from recycled plastic. A number of fishing platforms, as well as fencing and steps, have also been built using this hard wearing but sustainable material.

A timber bird hide was built along the eastern side of the pool, using a W aterside fencing constructed from combination of modern construction techniques and traditional crafts, including a versatile recycled plastic. thatched roof. The adjacent footpath, providing access for all around the whole site, was built using a type one stone and dust from 100% recycled materials.

RECOMMENDATION 4 All navigation authorities should be creative and consider new solutions œ there are m any ways in which m aterials can be reused or recycled, and often these will save m oney as well as help to save the environm ent.

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6.4 Minim ising the contribution to clim ate change

In line with global concerns, the UK government has made significant commitments to reducing carbon dioxide emissions œ the key contributor to climate change. There are two key areas on which navigation authorities can focus to reduce emissions: energy efficiency and transport.

6.4.1 Energy efficiency and renewables ñ turning off heating in unused rooms and asking staff Almost half of the UK's carbon dioxide emissions actually come about ambient temperatures - offices are generally too from our daily activities. Leaving lights on unnecessarily or warm! overfilling the kettle costs money, wastes energy, and results in ñ fitting thermostats and timers, such as sensors to needless emissions. By bringing energy-saving measures into ensure that the lighting switches off when not required. every aspect of work navigation authorities can start to make a real difference, and a 20% saving in energy can be achieved Measures to reduce energy consumption on site are important through simple and practical measures. Reducing office too. There are a range of sustainable options for the temperature by just 1°C can reduce heating bills by 10% , whilst procurement, maintenance and use of plant and equipment, a photocopier left on overnight wastes enough energy to make both in terms of energy efficiency and type, whilst larger or more than 5,000 A4 copies. longer term sites may warrant the installation of energy metering equipment. Actions can also be taken on site to help There‘s no doubt that energy efficiency begins in the office and both minimise energy use and prevent wastage, for example, priority actions can include: through generators left running unnecessarily.

ñ excellent insulation In a waterway context, the use of renewable energy can be ñ replacing all bulbs with energy efficient varieties œ one particularly practical and cost-effective where an application is energy saving light bulb could save up to £78 over the remote from a power network or the cost of bringing mains lifetime of the bulb electricity is likely to be high. Small scale solutions which use ñ a ”switch-off‘ initiative œ a PC running every night for renewable energy are now increasingly available and help to twelve months costs £60 per year both lower operating costs and damaging emissions. Examples can include: ñ making full use of powersave and ensuring any energy saving features are used ñ solar powered lighting ñ choosing energy efficient equipment, and using shared printers and other equipment ñ photo-voltaics ñ considering office design and layout - maximising ñ small wind turbines natural sunlight and ventilation, with the possible use of ñ heat exchangers using canal water partitions to help retain heat ñ micro-generators on weirs.

CASE STUDY: Kennet & Avon Canal: Solar powered cattle trough

Solar power has even been used to power a pump to supply a cattle trough adjacent to the . The trough is supplied with water from the canal, and this innovative solution has helped solve the problem caused by cattle trampling and damage to the canal edge.

Page 16 6. Guidance and case studies

CASE STUDY: Stone, Staffordshire: Canalside lighting

British W aterways has chosen to install solar powered lighting in a number of locations. In the W est Midlands. At Market Drayton in the W est Midlands, for example, solar power is used to light the canal towpath and under bridge areas, whilst at Stone low power marker lights have been installed to illuminate the towpath edge and obstructions. Similar in concept to aircraft landing lights these can be set into the towpath and are both robust and low in cost.

Solar powered lighting has also been installed at Ardrishaig on the Crinan Canal in Scotland. Here, the use of photo voltaic powered navigation lights by the sea lock entrance from Lochgilphead has avoided the expensive replacement of faulty cables and the associated problems of replacing lights in a difficult environment. These have an eight year life and are fully compliant with navigational standards. In addition, the lighthouse at Ardrishaig has also been converted so that it functions using solar power.

CASE STUDY: Various locations: SCADA telem etry bollards

British W aterways uses telemetry to record and transmit data relating to water use and water levels, enabling water resources to be managed with a high degree of efficiency.

There are now more than 400 Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition installations (known as SCADA) at locks and pumping stations across the canal network, and large GRP kiosks and brick installations are now gradually being superseded by specially developed small unobtrusive steel solar powered bollards. These bring with them a number of advantages:

ñ They use 50% less material and energy in construction ñ They are more sustainable and cheaper to install and run ñ They are much more flexibly located ñ They do not depend on electricity or telephone networks since they use mobile phone technology in addition to solar power ñ They are smaller and much less conspicuous in the waterway environment

By the end of 2007 more than 50 SCADA bollards had been installed.

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CASE STUDY: Montgom ery Canal, Tannant feeder: Solar energy to light m eter house

Solar energy is now being used to light a meter house which controls water entering the Montgomery Canal feeder from the River Tannant just south of Llanymynech on the border of and W ales. Since staff visits take place throughout the year, including during hours of darkness, a power source to supply both internal and external lights was required though the mains feed was some distance away. A standalone post and solar panel was installed at the point where water enters the feeder, and roof mounted solar panels power the lighting which is fitted with energy saving light bulbs. The system is activated by a remote control device operated by staff from their vehicle, and a 30 minute switch off delay allows enough time for inspection whilst ensuring that the system is not inadvertently left on all night.

The system was supplied and installed at a cost of approx £8,300. A mains connection would have been a similar cost, but using renewable energy avoided both reliance on mains electricity and the impact of ground disturbance on the rural local environment. A small cost saving over mains use will result since no additional standing charges will apply.

CASE STUDY: Driffield Navigation: Proposed hydro-power installation

The Driffield Canal Trust is investigating the possibilities of incorporating micro-hydro power generation at three sites, all lock outlets, and all close to habitation with easy access to the electrical distribution system. Hydrological data has been obtained from the Environment Agency, which operates a venturi metering station close to the three sites. The Trust believes that each location would have the capacity to generate around 4kW , and the proposals would incorporate a turbine/generator into the bywash pipework around three of the most accessible locks, at W ansford, W hin Hill and Snakeholme.

Anticipated revenue could be around 10p/kW h for green electricity sold back to the grid, equivalent to approximately £3,000 per annum per site. Installation costs, however, could be in the region £15,000-20,000, plus fees, and ongoing costs would include the work required to keep the intakes clear of weed, together with other potential flow interruptions. The Trust is currently considering feasibility issues and ways forward. W ansford Lock on the Driffield Navigation is one of the potential micro hydro-power locations being assessed by the Driffield Canal Trust

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CASE STUDY: Crinan Canal: W ind turbines

O n the Crinan Canal, British W aterways has recently installed lighting powered by small but effective wind turbines. Fifteen locks help carry the canal across the Kintyre Peninsula between Ardrishaig and Crinan Basin, and the third lock was originally lit from a 150w floodlight allowing the walkways on the lock gates to be used as a locally important public right of way. The electricity came from a British W aterways property adjacent to the lock, but when this property was sold the owner did not wish to continue this arrangement and a new solution was required.

Costs to supply electricity to the lock were therefore arranged, and this was priced at approximately £6,000. The cost of a distribution board and ancillary equipment would have been a further £1,800. By comparison, the costs for a renewable installation were also obtained, including a light column incorporating a small wind turbine, photo-voltaic panels, batteries and fluorescent light fitting. The column (supplied by Marlec Engineering) has been extensively used to provide lighting to remote locations, but a bespoke design was requested which would respect the heritage value of the canal. To remove the necessity for cross lock cables the scheme was designed to utilise two columns, one on either side of the lock, with an anticipated cost of £4,370.

Initially, there was concern from Historic Scotland that the turbines could look out of place or might damage the built heritage of the canal, which is scheduled as an ancient monument. Indeed, the original application for monument consent was refused, but was approved following further discussions and the production of a photo montage of the proposed installation. It was also important to provide information to local residents before work commenced. In particular efforts were made to show that the end result would be unobtrusive whilst guaranteeing that the footpath over the canal would remain lit.

The new scheme resulted in a reduced capital cost as well as a significant saving in operational costs over a ten year period. Currently, it has resulted in reduced electricity costs of around £75 per annum. Cost comparisons between the two options, which show the immediate and longer term financial benefits of using renewable energy in this location, are shown in the table below.

Electricity Renewable Column 0 4372 Electricity supply 6,000 0 Distribution board 1,500 0 Control equipment Included Included Lights 0 132 Installation 300 0 Installation Total £7,800 £4,804 Life costs œ 10 yrs Maintenance 1,500 300 Components 120 400 Electricity 657 0 Standing charge 60 0 Life Costs Total £10,137 £5,504

The original lighting column at lock 3, with footway over the canal - manufacturing the small wind turbines - the turbines delivered to site, and installation commences - installation complete, with a pair of new lighting columns and wind turbines on each side of the lock

Page 18 6. Guidance and case studies

6.4.2 Reducing road traffic

The transport sector (excluding international aviation) is currently responsible for approximately a quarter of total UK emissions, and 80% of this total is attributable to road use. Reducing car mileage is therefore a priority and often a little forward planning can result in lower vehicle use.

Navigation authorities can help to reduce road mileage in various ways, both through their own actions and by encouraging others, such as their contractors and customers, to adopt new or different approaches.

Examples include :

ñ promoting waterways as corridors for sustainable ñ considering, where feasible, water transport for transport œ cycling, walking, ”green‘ boating - in ways operational and construction purposes, to transport which encourage visitors and commuters, develop materials or waste to and from site routes to school and foster greater links with local ñ sourcing local materials, services and labour in order to communities reduce road miles ñ preparing travel plans for office locations and popular ñ adopting best practice such as efficient working visitor sites practices, for example, car sharing, and appropriate use ñ maintaining and promoting inland waterways for freight of new technology such as video conferencing . traffic

CASE STUDY: Gloucester Docks: Travel plan

British W aterways prepared a travel plan for their offices in Gloucester Docks. The work was carried out following consultation with staff and was designed to help reduce reliance on car use, address the shortage of parking spaces, and find ways of encouraging new transport options for both staff and visitors. A small staff working group was established and a questionnaire produced to gauge views and opinions. Cycle racks can Results showed that there was an interest in adopting different be installed to ways of travelling, linked to more flexible work patterns and help encourage remote working from other locations in the region. and support car free travel, and The group proposed a number of options and alternatives all many attractive aimed at helping to reduce the overall impact of car travel by designs are now staff. These included park and ride, car sharing to meetings, available. shared lifts from home and access to all local public transport timetables and options via an intranet. Ideas for physical improvements included the installation of cycle racks and access to showers. Unfortunately, car parking pressures have continued to grow at Gloucester Docks and staff do not always have ready access to an immediate parking space. However, implementation of some of the travel plan proposals is intended to help resolve these issues, whilst supporting environmental measures. A new Sustrans route alongside the Gloucester & Sharpness Canal could also benefit staff and visitors.

Page 19 6. Guidance and case studies

CASE STUDY: River W elland: Spalding water taxi

Supported by the Environment Agency, the East Midlands Development Agency and other partners, a privately run water taxi is successfully operating between Spalding town centre and the popular Springfields Outlet Shopping and Festival Gardens. The 30 minute route encourages visitors to use a sustainable means of transport during their day out and makes use of both the River W elland and the adjacent linking Coronation Channel. Boats leave every 30 minutes during the summer season from embarkation points in Spalding and at Springfields. Seating capacity on each of the four craft used is 12 adults per boat.

Initial feasibility studies were carried out to measure demand and to research whether people would use a water taxi service. The river channels were surveyed to assess suitability, depth, navigation and water flow and an environmental impact study was also conducted by the Environment Agency.

The project also helps to generate additional income from the visitors and this supports the economic sustainability of the Spalding area. It is anticipated it will also demonstrate how relatively unused waterways can be given a new lease of life as sustainable tourist attractions.

RECOMMENDATION 5

All navigation authorities should always think about the sim ple ways to help lower C02 em issions œ it doesn‘t need to involve installing high tech renewables.

Page 20 6. Guidance and case studies

6.5 Planning and m onitoring for sustainability: Checklist

The following checklist summarises the key actions to consider ñ Initiate actions to minimise road mileage and reduce travel during the life of a project. No checklist can be fully and transport. Plan to purchase or source supplies and comprehensive, but the themes outlined below will help guide materials more locally, and consider options for water waterway work in a sustainable way. transport where feasible.

W ith regard to smaller scale work or office-based activities you W orking with your com m unities may need to select the actions that are applicable to your situation, but in all cases don‘t forget that further guidance and ñ After thinking carefully about the environment and the use checklists are available via the information and references of natural resources, don‘t forget the people and included in the Appendix. communities to which so many navigation authorities link.

W here possible, consult with your users and let them know Looking after the environm ent your plans for the future.

ñ Identify any environment and heritage issues and ensure ñ Consider likely social and community impacts which might that careful monitoring is carried out in order to conserve result from your work, and where possible allow for long and sustain important built and natural waterway features. term sustainable benefits to users and visitors.

ñ W here necessary, follow legislation and guidance and ñ Plan to make increased lengths of waterway and towpath appraise your plans against policies and known best accessible to all sectors of your communities, since this practice. will help support sustainable communities.

ñ Identify potential courses of actions to maintain and ñ Think about any local economic benefits too œ could you enhance the waterway environment and heritage and employ local contractors for example? ensure appropriate measures are undertaken to conserve local character. W ork could include improvements to biodiversity and habitat creation, as well as sympathetic Costs and procurem ent work to historic features. ñ Sustainable solutions can help to save money œ monitor ñ Identify any impacts on the water environment, with costs right from the start, and use any savings made to actions to conserve and enhance water quality and its both help justify further work and to invest back into the ecological status, particularly in accordance with emerging waterway. policies from the W ater Framework Directive. ñ Before you place an order, ask some simple questions: Sustainable resources W ould upgrading or reconditioning be a better or cheaper option? How much energy will it use? How long will this particular product last? Does the product contain recycled ñ Ensure that projects always make full use of materials materials and can it be recycled when finished with? obtained from sustainable sources. For example, timber

should be FSC certified or from other approved sources. ñ Ask your suppliers and contractors to meet specified environmental standards, stop the use of environmentally ñ Identify the ways in which recycled materials can be used damaging products and processes and aim to reduce the and arrange to minimise use of aggregates and other amount of new products purchased. natural materials. Research new suppliers and new ways

of working. Long term sustainability

ñ Identify measures to help minimise energy consumption at all stages of a project and plan to quantify any savings ñ Sustainability doesn‘t finish once a project is complete. such as running costs. Apply energy-saving measures in offices and workshops too. ñ Anticipate the need for any ongoing sustainability work, and ensure that provision has been made to monitor the ñ Minimise waste and aim to reduce, reuse and recycle any effectiveness of your project. Depending on the scale of waste produced. Consider opportunities for waste the work, this may be a straightforward regular check or a reduction through design, planning, procurement and more detailed means of monitoring the work over a effective site management. Simple measures such as number of years. Monitoring work can be used to help composting should be applied whenever possible. guide future plans for a waterway and allows judgements to be made against the changes, uses and activities taking place on and around it. ñ Think about water consumption and consider any measures to reduce use and wastage.

Page 21 6. Guidance and case studies

CASE STUDY: Kennet & Avon Canal: Sustainability m onitoring

Following five years of work funded by the Heritage Lottery and These subjects include ecology, water quality and water other partners, a pilot programme of sustainability monitoring resources, landscape, heritage, economic and community commenced on the Kennet & Avon Canal in 1992. This aims to aspects, and measurement of visitor numbers (including boaters, measure progress towards the sustainable management of the pedestrians and cyclists). Baseline data was established in the canal as well as helping to guide the long term future of the first year against which future change can be measured. W hilst waterway. It also helps to measure the impacts of repair and still too early to identify significant trends, the survey work carried restoration work, and includes survey and assessment of out to date has provided much detailed information which has community and economic factors. been published in reports, produced by British W aterways, available to the public. Monitoring covers a range of subjects which are being surveyed by specialists at set intervals over a number of agreed pilot The approach taken on the Kennet & Avon is integrated and lengths. balanced in the way it considers environmental, social and economic factors, and navigation authorities may be able to adapt parts of this work to suit their own requirements.

RECOMMENDATION 6

All navigation authorities should consider m onitoring their work in order to inform future actions to support sustainability.

Page 22 7. Sum m ary

Navigation authorities should consider sustainability as a priority, but it need not be complex or costly.

The case studies have shown that sustainability in action does not always require new solutions or modern technology œ often it is simply about encouraging best practice and thoughtful ways of working.

But navigation authorities have a role to play in helping to reduce our overall consumption of natural resources, lower our levels of waste, minimise our C02 emissions, and promote more sustainable practices. Encouraging staff to become more environmentally aware and promoting alternative forms of travel and transport will also help navigation authorities to show their commitment to sustainability.

Six straightforward recom m endations have been included in this guide. In pursuing these, navigation authorities should consider the following points:

ñ Think about sustainability and recognise opportunities as early as possible.

ñ Be flexible œ issues m ay com e to light once work is underway.

ñ Consider the future - work undertaken with a long-term perspective is usually m ore effective.

ñ Look at exam ples from other projects for ideas and inspiration œ and rem em ber to use the resources provided by AINA.

ñ Rem em ber that there‘s a wealth of inform ation and guidance available, and your partners m ay be able to offer advice and expertise.

ñ Always rem em ber to check that you are com plying with environm ental legislation.

Page 23 Appendix

The following references, largely available via the internet, provide further information on both policy and best practice. These are listed as an initial starting point œ plenty of information is available from local authorities, funding agencies, and, of course, navigation authorities themselves.

www.un.org/esa/sustdev/csd.htm - the UN Commission on Sustainable Development www.sustainable-development.gov.uk œ policy and guidance from the UK Government www.sd-commision.org.uk œ information from the Government‘s independent watchdog on sustainable development www.environment-agency.gov.uk œ provides information and links to guidance and policy www.wrap.org.uk œ Government sponsored programme to research and promote sustainable solutions to waste. www.aggregain.org.uk œ a website from wrap, which provides a complete online guide to the use of sustainable and recycled aggregates www.sustainable-construction.org.uk œ provides a range of practical guidance www.bre.co.uk œ Building Research Establishment, with links to other sections of their work, eg, www.bremap.co.uk œ free web-based geographical information system which can be used to find nearest recycling sites, reclamation companies, composting facilities, manufacturer take-back schemes etc. www.thecarbontrust.co.uk/energy - (formally the Energy Efficiency Best Practice Programme (EEBPP), and Action Energy), provides advice to reduce energy consumption and related emissions www.forumforthefuture.co.uk œ provides both guidance and consultancy to public and private organisations www.sustainablebuild.co.uk œ a web resource describing a range of ideas and solutions www.salvomie.co.uk - the Materials Information Exchange, hosted by BRE offers a route to send unwanted construction materials for sustainable reuse elsewhere rather than to landfill www.greenspec.co.uk - National Green Specification (NGS) provides useful specification clauses and guidance notes to drive waste reduction on any contract and procurement route. Includes downloadable NBS compatible specification preliminaries, work sections and clauses and an encyclopaedia of ”green‘ design related features www.c4s.info/ - the Centre for Sustainability www.considerateconstructorsscheme.org.uk - this voluntary Code of Practice provides guidance and has a useful checklist of issues and actions. The CCS is a well recognised scheme - the benefits of registering sites managed by AINA members should be considered, particularly where they may have a high profile. Site registration fees are modest. www.aecb.net - Association for Environment Conscious Building encourages greater environmental and covers almost every sector of construction and management

British W aterways Energy Campaign Toolkit contains a range of case studies and best practice ideas œ contact BW for further information.

Kennet & Avon Canal Sustainability Monitoring Programme : approach taken and reports produced are available on the British W aterways website

Page 24 AINA:

ñ Representing the collective views of navigation authorities to government, regulators, other policy makers, funders and stakeholders

ñ Developing, sharing and promoting good practice for the operation, management and development of inland waterways for navigation and associated purposes

Fearns W harf, Neptune Street, Leeds LS9 8PB Tel: 0113 2433125 www.aina.org.uk