Celebrating 65 Years: How Connevans is Working More Sustainably

Amalee -

As we continue celebrating 65 years of Connevans, we've been reflecting on what it means to build a business for the long term.

For us, sustainability isn't a marketing ploy - it's something we try to build into everyday decisions across the business, whether it's how we design products, how we package orders, or how we manage our HQ in Surrey.

Sustainability is rarely one single, dramatic action - it's lots of practical choices that gradually add up over time to make a real difference. So, in no particular order, here are just some of the ways we're trying to do our bit for the planet.

Re-using, Reducing, and Rethinking Packaging

One of the simplest ways we reduce waste is be re-using incoming packaging whenever possible. Boxes and packaging materials are regularly given a second (or even third!) life before eventually being recycled.

Our Goods Inwards team, Ross and Brian, also recycle all incoming cardboard and packaging as part of their daily routine.

When it comes to sending out customer orders, we aim to make thoughtful choices there too. We use biodegradable or compostable parcel packaging where possible, along with paper-based gummed tape instead of plastic alternatives.

Recycling That Goes The Extra Mile

We work with specialist recycling centres to manage our waste and recycling. While this costs more than standard local authority collections, it helps ensure that collections are recycled or reused wherever possible.

Across the business, we recycle:

  • Mixed paper and cardboard
  • Glass
  • Metal
  • Plastic bottles

Batteries and printer and toner cartridges are sent through dedicated recycling schemes, and staff have recycling bins at their desks alongside general waste bins.

We even keep scrap paper collections to help ensure both sides of every sheet are used before recycling.

Powering Our HQ With Sunshine

Around ten years ago, we installed solar panels on the roof of our Merstham headquarters - and we've been generating renewable energy every since.

That solar energy also supports our electric vehicle charging points for staff, while our company vehicles have transitioned away from diesel towards hybrid and electric models.

In some cases, staff can quite literally drive home powered by sunshine!

Alongside renewable energy generation, we actively try to reduce unnecessary energy use across the site:

  • Heating and lighting are only used when the building is occupied
  • Electronic equipment is switched off when not in use
  • Power is centrally cut at the end of each working day

They may sound like small operational habits, but over time, this all contributed to reducing our overall energy consumption.

Smarter Travel, Fewer Miles

Unlike many businesses, we don't operate a fleet of travelling sales representatives, which naturally helps reduce routine travel.

When visits are needed, we try to combine appointments where possible, avoid unnecessary journeys, and use online meetings as the first option whenever appropriate.

Built to Last and to Be Repaired

For us, sustainability also means creating products with longevity in mind. We design equipment to last and be repairable rather than disposable, and we continue supporting Connevans-manufactured products for at least seven years.

We are also members of the European WEEE Directive, helping ensure responsible recycling and disposable at the end of a product's life.

Even small product design choices can make a difference. For example, our chargers automatically switch off once devices are fully charged, helping avoid unnecessary power usage.

Everyday Actions That Add Up

Some of the most meaningful sustainability efforts are simply a part of our everyday working life.

We support local businesses wherever we can, including sourcing fruit from a local greengrocer and food for meetings from a nearby baker.

Staff are encouraged to cycle to work, with showers and bike racks available onsite, and sustainability remains part of wider business conversations thanks to our Green Champion at Director level (shout-out to Phil for keeping it on the agenda!).

Across the team, there are also lots of individual efforts happening behind the scenes:

  • Ross recycles hard-to-process plastics via specialist collection points
  • David takes crisp packets home so his partner Wendy can recycle them (despite her having recently retired!)
  • David also composts the company food waste at home

They may be small actions individually, but together they reflect a shared mindset across the business.

Looking After the Future - Together

As a family-owned business, looking after the future has always been a part of who we are.

Connevans is now led by the second and third generations of the family, with David and Mary continuing the work started by their parents, alongside Laura helping shape the future for the next generation.

That long-term perspective naturally influences how we think about sustainability too. Many of the decisions we make are about building a business that will continue supporting people for many years to come.

We know sustainability is a journey rather than a finish line, and there's always room to improve and learn. We believe small, consistent actions matter.

When you hope your business will still be here for future generations, you try to take care of the world they'll inherit along the way 💚