Sustainability & our Local Community
At Ruxley Manor we're conscious of implementing sustainable business practices and being involved in local community initiatives. Discover how we are committed to sustainability and giving back to our local community.
Sustainability
Embracing our community role and commitment as an eco-conscious business means prioritising sustainability is at the core of our values at Ruxley Manor. Find out how the environment plays a part in our thinking.
Water Conservation
Where possible we always stock water-saving and recycling products in our store, stocking a selection of drought-resistant plants that require minimal watering.
We invested in two water storage reservoirs in the 1980s to collect rainwater. These reservoirs supply 40% of our water used to water our plants. We've a range of water-saving products like water butts, water-retaining compost and container gels, all helping our customers to reduce their water requirements.
Discover the benefits of drought-resistant plants for our changing climate. Get expert advice on plant selection.
Peat-Free
At Ruxley Manor, we recognise that peat has a limited future in growing media and that peat-based composts have a harmful impact on the environment.
For this reason, we have significantly expanded our range of peat-free alternatives. By supporting our customers in making the switch to peat-free compost, we can help protect valuable peat bog habitats and play a part in tackling climate change for future generations.
If you have any questions about our peat-free compost range, please speak to a member of our Landscaping team, who will be happy to help.
Solar Energy
In November 2015 we installed 723 solar panels, generating much of our own power for the garden centre. Our reliance on buying electricity from the grid has been greatly reduced, but when we do buy our electricity, we ensure it's from a renewable source.
We have also switched our halogen lighting to LEDs bulbs throughout the business - further reducing our energy usage.
Recycling
We are dedicated to recycling and reducing landfill with the help of our waste management partner, ensuring no waste goes to landfill. Wood, paper, plastic, cardboard, glass, food waste and batteries are all recycled through dedicated processes.
Wood is reused, returned to suppliers or recycled locally. Paper, plastic and cardboard are baled and reprocessed into new products. Glass is recycled into materials such as road aggregate and insulation. Food waste is recycled via anaerobic digestion, creating fertiliser and green energy. We also have a battery recycling point located in at Customer Services for safe disposal.
Forest Stewardship Council
The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) promotes responsible forest management worldwide. Each year, natural forests equivalent to half the size of the UK are lost, despite supporting millions of people, wildlife, and vulnerable communities.
FSC certification shows how timber and fibre are sourced: FSC 100% comes solely from certified forests, FSC Recycled uses post-consumer materials, and FSC Mixed Sources combines certified, recycled, and controlled sources. All our suppliers are FSC certified, and our timber products clearly display the FSC logo and certification category on their packaging or labels.
Local Community
With a long-standing connection to our local community, we love actively participating in fundraising & supporting local projects and initiatives whenever possible. Find out more about our efforts below.
Large Garden Winner 2025
Residential Front Garden Winner 2025
Ruxley in Bloom Annual Competition
Ruxley in Bloom, previously organized by Bexley Council, invites residents and schools near Ruxley Manor to participate in a free gardening competition. The event aims to enhance outdoor spaces, boost mental well-being, and foster community unity. Compeition season usually begins late spring and is announced on social media, online and in-store
Head Judge Jim Buttress (right) with James Evans of Ruxley Manor
Charity Fundraising Events
We choose a new local charity every two years as our "nominated charity", voted for by our Charity Commitee. Fundraising events are scheduled throughout the year. Information on our current charity is available via the link below, but some of our past fundraising events & efforts can be seen below.
"Tough Mudder" for Dandelion Time
"Tough Mudder" for Dandelion Time
Charity Football Match for Beams
Charity Football Match for Beams
Charity cycle for Beams
Charity cycle for Beams
3 Peaks Challenge for Demelza
