Staffordshire Federation of Women’s Institutes (SFWI) Environmental Policy
1. Background;
SFWI is affiliated to the National Federation of Women’s Institutes (NFWI) which is the largest women’s organisation in England, Wales and the Islands,
The organisation has a history of campaigning on issues such as plastic pollution, clean rivers and food waste.
They actively campaign for environmental protection, promote sustainable practices and encourage member participation in environmental initiatives.
NFWI is a founder member of the Climate Coalition and works with partner organisations on climate change. They advocate for urgent action to address the climate crisis, emphasising both mitigation and adaptation strategies.
This commitment is rooted in recognising the significant impact of climate change on the environment, including rising temperatures, sea level rise and extreme weather events, all of which affect what people value, for example potable water, energy, and wildlife.
SFWI actively encourages members of every Women’s Institute (WI) to take personal responsibility in addressing climate change.
2. Scope;
SFWI complies with applicable environmental legislation and is constantly striving to better their environmental practices. Environmental awareness and responsibility is actively encouraged amongst staff, trustees and members.
At their Headquarters, The Cornerstone, SFWI has an awareness to recycle what is possible, to be mindful of sustainability when procuring products and services and to actively seek to reduce their use of paper. It continues to work towards a paperless office.
Being mindful of their carbon footprint, a proportion of their business meetings are undertaken online to avoid travel.
At every opportunity systems and practices are reviewed to ensure that the Federation is working both ‘smart’ and with environmental consciousness.
3. Key Aspects;
a) Sustainable Development:
SFWI prioritises sustainable development by integrating environmental considerations into its activities and promoting practices that ensure the long-term well-being of both the environment and society.
b) Advocacy and Awareness:
Through a framework set by NFWI, and promoted by SFWI, WIs within Staffordshire actively campaign for policies that promote Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, reduce carbon emissions and protect natural resources. They work to raise public awareness about the urgency of climate action and encourage individuals and communities to adopt sustainable practices.
c) Sustainable Practices:
SFWI follows the NFWI practice of promoting sustainable living within its organisation and among its members. This includes encouraging energy efficiency, reducing waste and supporting local and sustainable food systems including Fair Trade produce and products.
d) Community Engagement:
There is active engagement with local communities to promote educational messages, particularly in respect of climate action and the environment. Through competitions, events and educational initiatives, individuals are empowered to make a positive impact.
e) Collaboration and Partnerships:
NFWI collaborates with other organisations and stakeholders to amplify their climate action efforts. They work with government agencies, environmental groups and other relevant bodies to campaign for effective climate policies and solutions.
An example of this is involvement with a All Party Parliamentary Group that is aiming to reduce microplastics entering the wastewater environment through various actions and policy changes.
by Helen Mancey, Federation Chair
on behalf of Staffordshire Federation of Women’s Institutes
Board of Trustees
Date 6th August 2025
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