Twenty-three employees from organisations involved in the newly formed Haven Environment & Sustainability Group, led by Harwich Haven Authority, volunteered their time to clear brambles, weeds and litter from the SSSI designated, 33 acre Landguard Nature Reserve. 

The Group’s focus is to work together on improving the biodiversity of the Haven and local communities, which covers both Essex and Suffolk. Members of the group include Harwich Haven Authority, Port of Felixstowe, Harwich International Port, Trinity House, Freeport East and RWE.  

“The Authority’s jurisdiction covers an area of approx.150 square miles and as a Trust Port we reinvest our surplus profits back into the Haven for the benefit of local communities,” says Sarah West, CEO, Harwich Haven Authority. 

“We know that environment and sustainability are high on many organisations’ agenda and with this in mind we formed the Group to hear what our peers in the Haven were doing and share best practice. From our conversations we discovered that as a group we could deliver more together, and we’ve been exploring joint opportunities such as the bramble clearing on the Nature Reserve. 
 
“The volunteering day was also a great opportunity for our employees to take time away from their day-to-day roles and participate in activities that support their health and wellbeing.  

“We intend to continue working closely with Haven-based businesses to look at more collaborative initiatives that support both biodiversity and communities over the coming months and years.” 

Conor Nicholson, Business and Stakeholder Co-ordinator, RWE, commented: “Most organisations have their own approach to supporting the important topic of sustainability; however, it is great to see that wherever possible local businesses are coming together to support initiatives in their community for the benefit of the special environment we live and work in. It’s great to be a part of events like these and we look forward to more of them.” 

Leoni Washington, Landguard Ranger, added: “Volunteer support on the Nature Reserve plays a huge role in the conservation of this special site. Participants gain valuable conservation and tourism experience, opportunities to meet like-minded people and take an active role in supporting Landguard. 
 
“It was great to welcome employees from the Haven Environment & Sustainability Group’s members. They all worked so hard, and everyone involved with clearing brambles can be assured that they have contributed to maintaining the biodiversity of the Reserve.”