Environmental policy

West Yorkshire Print Workshop (WYPW) is a centre of excellence in traditional printmaking techniques based in Mirfield, West Yorkshire. In addition to the print facilities we have 11 artist studios and an exhibition space which hosts a changing programme of temporary print exhibitions.

We recognise that we have a responsibility to the environment beyond legal and regulatory requirements. We are committed to reducing our environmental impact and continually improving our environmental performance as an integral part of our business strategy with regular opportunities for review. We will encourage Board members, staff, volunteers, printmakers, studio artists and other stakeholders to be aware of the impact of their activities on the environment.

Environmental Aims and objectives
• Comply with and aim to exceed all relevant regulatory requirements.
• Continually improve and monitor environmental performance.
• Continually improve and reduce environmental impacts.
• Incorporate environmental factors into business decisions.
• Increase environmental awareness and training for all stakeholders.

Our activities do have an impact on the environment in terms of the use of raw materials such as paper, inks and chemicals; energy used by exposing and drying screens and waste produced through the washing of screens, cleaning plates WYPW aim is to manage and reduce our impact through a programme of SMART initiatives. Reducing our impact on the environment requires the involvement of everyone from Management Board, staff, studio holders, members and volunteers; everyone has a role to play. WYPW is committed to reducing its carbon footprint year on year looking at the following factors where we can achieve impact:

Travel
Energy – gas and electricity & water usage
Recycling – paper, plastic and glass
Cleaning materials
Culture
Chemicals used in the printmaking process – 2019
We will communicate this policy to all stakeholders of WYPW and ensure that appropriate training will take place to raise awareness of environmental issues. This policy will be reviewed on an annual basis and we will make this policy available.

Ian Wrench and Clare Grace
Joint Chair
West Yorkshire Print Workshop