The Bell Inn has made significant strides in sustainability, aiming to benefit their customers, the environment, and the local community. Key initiatives include:

• Refill Station: Located in the side bar, customers can refill eco-friendly laundry detergent and fabric conditioner.
• TRAID Bin: Situated in the hop garden, the bin collects unwanted clothes for charity.
• Used Cooking Oil: Repurposed into biofuel.
• Compostable Packaging: Only Farmers’ crisps are sold, which come in compostable bags.
• Free-Range Meat: The pub exclusively serves free-range chicken and pork and has increased its vegetarian and vegan offerings.
• Local and Sustainable Products: Unbranded glassware is recycled, and wines and spirits are sourced locally. Wine is provided by Tuffon Hall, a nearby vineyard, while the house gin and vodka come from Sapling, a climate-positive brand. All fruit juices are supplied by Folkingtons, a carbon-neutral company.
• Eco-Friendly Practices: Paperless credit card machines are used, toilet paper is from Who Gives a Crap?, and recycled descaler and beerline cleaner are used for urinal flushing. Cleaning maintenance is handled using the Pod Pro Eco range. The pub has eliminated straws and discontinued the use of cling film.

The Bell Inn’s sustainability efforts have been met with enthusiasm from interested customers and the local community. Many support and appreciate the eco-friendly practices, and there is positive buzz around the pub’s commitment to sustainability. Even those less interested in environmental issues have not been deterred, and some have become more aware of and engaged with the pub’s practices due to the discussions generated by their efforts.

The Bell Inn’s dedication to sustainability has had a notable impact on the community. By incorporating environmentally friendly practices and supporting local businesses, the pub not only contributes to a greener environment but also fosters a sense of community responsibility. Their initiatives have encouraged patrons to adopt more sustainable habits and have set a positive example for other local businesses.

The Bell Inn in Castle Hedingham stands out as a model of sustainability and community involvement. Through its comprehensive eco-friendly practices and commitment to local sourcing, the pub has successfully blended tradition with modern environmental responsibility. Its impact on both customers and the wider community demonstrates how a historic pub can thrive while championing sustainability.