Probably one of the greatest stickers we've ever seen, let alone made. Holographic mountain stag vibes on a whole new level.
We can't take all the credit for this one though, our pals at Stickermule made the magic happen.
Love it? Get one here
Probably one of the greatest stickers we've ever seen, let alone made. Holographic mountain stag vibes on a whole new level.
We can't take all the credit for this one though, our pals at Stickermule made the magic happen.
Love it? Get one here
At admissionassistants, we’re all about blending high-tech innovation with our love for the outdoors.
Nestled in the heart of Dartmoor National Park, we create our t-shirts using the latest screen printing technology, all while staying true to our commitment to the environment.
We use computer-to-screen technology to cut out waste and improve efficiency in the process. This means we get your designs onto shirts faster and with less impact on the planet.
Once the screens are ready, our high-tech machines take over. They ensure every print is vibrant and precise, so your gear looks great come rain or shine.
Our facility is powered entirely by green energy. From our electric dryers (a rare choice in the screen printing industry) to our all-LED lighting, every part of our process is designed to minimize our carbon footprint.
Our products are made with care, we’re proud to do what we do and we're proud that the last steps in the factory process are carried out by us, right here in 00166.
Wear your values with the admissionassistants x Penfold Nature Matters T Shirt.
]]>We value our connection to the outdoors and and strive to keep nature at the heart of everything we do. Whether it's the tranquil flow of a river or the crisp freshness of clean air, nature has a way of grounding us, reminding us of what's truly important.
For our team, the connection to nature isn't just a corporate talking point; it's a personal passion. We believe that spending time in nature boosts our mental health, providing a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of daily life. It's in the quiet moments by a lakeside, or the invigorating hike through a forest, that we find clarity and peace. This isn't just about escaping the everyday grind but about recharging our spirits and finding inspiration in the natural world around us.
We know that you share this connection too. We've heard countless stories of how nature has been a source of healing and joy. Whether it's the simple pleasure of a walk in the park or the awe-inspiring experience of a mountain vista, these moments are precious. They are essential for our physical and mental well-being.
But here's the thing: access to these wild spaces isn't guaranteed. It's something we need to actively protect and fight for. Without access, we lose our connection to these healing environments. That's why it's crucial to support access rights and conservation efforts. When we ensure that everyone can experience the beauty and benefits of nature, we're not just protecting the environment; we're investing in our collective health and happiness.
So, let's remember why nature matters and why it's worth preserving. After all, our connection to these wild places is a connection to ourselves.
Wear your values on your back, literally with the admissionassistants x Penfold Nature Matters T Shirt.
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Once again we link up with long time pals V12 Outdoor to print up this absolute banger of a t shirt designed by artist Tilly Butters.
The design celebrates V12s 20th birthday as V12 Outdoor.
This t shirt is exclusively available at V12 Outdoor. Pop into their store in Llanberis or pick it up from their online shop here.
Like it? Buy on from V12's online shop here.
A t shirt has never been just a t shirt for us. Every t shirt we make is still screen printed by us in house, right here on Dartmoor.
All our tees are made from 100% organic cotton, just like we've always made them. It's better for you and its better for the people that make them.
]]>A t shirt has never been just a t shirt for us. Every t shirt we make is still screen printed by us in house, right here on Dartmoor.
All our tees are made from 100% organic cotton, just like we've always made them. It's better for you and its better for the people that make them.
Here are the top 5 t-shirts to gift this winter season, each with its own unique story, design and a deeper commitment to nature and adventure.
The 'Protect Our Winters - Dusty Cat' t-shirt is an ideal gift for the environmentally conscious. With a design that subtly reminds us of the importance of protecting winter landscapes, this t-shirt is perfect for those who cherish the colder months and the unique beauty they bring.
It's also a great way to double give. Stoke our the receiver and know you've helped fund the work Protect Our Winters do at the same time.
Gift a splash of environmental advocacy with the 'Save Our Rivers - Dyffryn Tee'. This shirt, featuring a serene river design, is more than just apparel; it's a statement in support of preserving our precious waterways. Perfect for the friend who finds peace by the riverside or is passionate about water conservation.
It's also a great way to double give. Stoke our the receiver and know you've helped fund the work Save Our Rivers do at the same time.
The 'Cascade T' is a celebration of nature's beauty, with a design that captures the essence of cascading waterfalls. This t-shirt is perfect for those who love to explore the wild and are captivated by the power and beauty of nature.
Hills, Helicopters and Landy's. A salute to those who risk their lives to save others. A thoughtful gift for those who appreciate the heroes of the outdoors.
While this specific T-shirt doesn't directly benefit a particular cause or group, it now forms part of our broader commitment to giving back to people & planet - which is over 2% of our annual turnover each year!
Simple yet striking, the 'Iconic Raw' t-shirt is for those who appreciate minimalism with a touch of ruggedness. Its classic design makes it versatile and suitable for any winter layering style.
This tee is made from 100% organic ringspun cotton which is completely undyed raw cotton. There's no dying or bleaching in the manufacturing process, which means it uses 91% less water than conventional cotton. 
Gifting one of these tees this winter means sharing a piece of their story. Whether it's about protecting winters, saving rivers, appreciating nature or embracing simplicity, there's a t-shirt for every story.
Can't decide? Shop all t shirts.
Last shipping dates? We expect items dispatched on these dates to arrive but services are not guaranteed and are not at our control. Orders need to be in by 1pm Wednesday to be dispatched the same day.
This Black Friday, we at admissionassistants are taking a stand against the tide of mass consumerism by doing something different. In an era where the pressure to buy more and buy fast is overwhelming, we're choosing to step back, reflect, and reconnect with our core values.
This year, like previous years, we won't be participating in Black Friday sales. Instead, we're closing our stores, shutting down our office and warehouse, and heading out to Dartmoor for a day of connecting with each other, and with nature.
Please don't buy from us on Black Friday
We won't be in the stores and we won't be shipping orders. But it's about more than that.
We wouldn't be here without you and everyday we're reminded of how strong and awesome the admissionassistants community is. We're eternally grateful that you're here for the ride and we're excited to see where it goes.
So on Black Friday, and against all business wisdom, please don't buy anything from us.
Why We're Saying No to Black Friday
Black Friday has become synonymous with excessive buying, driven by relentless advertising and the promise of once-a-year deals. However, this frenzy of consumption comes with significant environmental and social costs. It promotes a culture of waste, contributes to overproduction, and often overlooks the ethical aspects of production and sales. We believe it's time to challenge this norm and do our part in promoting more responsible consumption.
A Day for Team Building and Reflection
Spending the day on Dartmoor, away from the hustle and bustle of commerce, allows our team to bond, reflect on our impact as a business, and discuss how we can further our mission to be a force for positive change.
Encouraging Mindful Consumption
By stepping away from Black Friday, and Green Friday, we aim to encourage our community and the wider commerce world to think about their consumption habits. We believe that mindful consumption is key to creating a sustainable future. This day is an opportunity for everyone to consider the impact of their buying choices and to explore alternative ways of finding fulfillment and joy that don't involve shopping.
A Different Kind of Friday
We're advocating for a day of outdoor activities, community service, or simply taking a break from the digital world. We want to inspire people to spend time in nature, engage in activities that foster a sense of community, and appreciate the world around us without the lens of consumerism.
For us, Friday will be a day of positive action and meaningful experiences, rather than one of unnecessary consumption.
At admissionassistants, we're committed to doing business differently and responsibly. Closing on Black Friday is a small but significant step towards challenging the status quo and promoting a more thoughtful and sustainable approach to how we live and consume.
Get involved
Feel free to use the images, drop us a DM on Instagram @admissionassistants and we'll send them to you. The more people that see Black Friday for what it is, the better.
]]>
When is enough enough?
We are all increasingly expected to be socially and environmentally responsible, and for the younger generations, they are expected to take on the burden of lack of action and neglect from those that came before them.
For many people and indeed businesses, there comes a moment – a tipping point – that drives them towards activism. This tipping point is often a realisation or an event that makes it impossible to continue with the status quo.
Identifying the Tipping Point
Every person may have a different tipping point that propels them into activism. For some, it might be the overwhelming evidence of environmental degradation, like the sight of litter spoiling natural landscapes. This visual reminder of our impact on the planet can be a powerful motivator to implement sustainable practices and advocate for environmental change.
For others, the tipping point might be consumerism-driven events like Black Friday. The relentless push to buy more and the visible impact of such consumerism on society and the environment can urge people and businesses to adopt a different approach. For businesses especially, the realisation that they are part of a system that promotes unsustainable buying habits can lead to a significant shift in how they operate and market themselves.
Responding to the Tipping Point
The response can take many forms. It might mean taking a public stand against practices that are harmful to the environment, businesses might also choose to support social causes, advocating for issues such as fair labor practices or equal opportunities.
Either way, it involves putting your head above the parapet, standing up for what you believe in and ultimately, taking action.
Use your platform
This could be hands on joining a litter pick, it could be giving your expertise to a non profit organisation, or it could be hitting the streets or social channels and amplifying the voice of those who need it.
Businesses could work with partners like 1% for the Planet, combining their activism, values and business goals with a measurable accreditation.
Meaningful Impact
Finding your tipping point is the first step towards making a meaningful impact. As we all begin to find and recognise our roles in shaping a better world, activism becomes not just a choice, but a necessity.
The context of 'Finding your tipping point' was taken from a talk that Rory, founder of admissionassistants, shared at an event 'Why businesses need a more activist mindset' hosted by Enviral.
The talk concluded with a call to action, using our platform to influence change and calling upon the audience to use their voice in the fight to save the Afon Cynfal. With a QR code on the screen the audience were invited to scan, learn and act. You can act on this one too, here.
📸 Luc Lacey
Get involved
Feel free to use the images, drop us a DM on Instagram @admissionassistants and we'll send them to you. The more people that see Black Friday for what it is, the better.
]]>Green Friday is emerging as an alternative to the traditional Black Friday, with brands advocating for more environmentally conscious shopping. However, it's important to scrutinise whether this shift truly represents a move towards sustainability or if it's just another tactic to encourage spending under the guise of being 'green' or is it simply just tree washing?
The Green Facade
Many brands on Green Friday promote eco-friendly products or pledge to donate a portion of their sales to environmental causes. While these initiatives seem positive, they often still encourage the same level of consumerism as Black Friday. The core issue of overconsumption remains unaddressed, as the focus is still on buying more, albeit 'greener' products.
Arguably if you're going to buy something, buy it from a better, cleaner and greener business, but when that green starts to blur amongst the countless Green Friday ads and the distinction between Black Friday and Green Friday ads starts to blur.. it's difficult to see what's what, so perhaps it's better not to buy at all.
Tree Washing
Planting trees is great, don't get us wrong on that one. But using it as a tool or an incentive to sell more is is bit like distracting you with something shiny. We'll do this thing that you perceive as good, as long as you buy more.
Plant trees and BUY MORE this B̶l̶a̶c̶k̶ Green Friday.
Buy more, buy things you don't need, what ever you do, just buy more and we'll put a green twist on it. That's not a message we're in to.
Environmental Claims and Real Impact
The environmental benefits of these Green Friday offers can sometimes be questionable. Back to the trees again; Planting an extra tree for every purchase sounds good on the surface, but it doesn’t offset the environmental impact of producing and shipping that product.
It doesn't address making more stock for increased B̶l̶a̶c̶k̶ Green Friday sales.
Especially if you throw in there that you really didn't need to buy it, and let's be real here, these green incentives are encouraging you to buy more.
Consumer Awareness
As consumers, it's crucial to be aware of these marketing strategies. While shopping green is better than the alternative, the best option for the environment is to buy less.
Green Friday subtly manipulates our behaviours leading to buying decisions that we wouldn't normally make, engaging in over consumption, under the canopy of environmental consciousness.
There's the argument that if you're going to be spending money on Black Friday, spend it with someone thats doing good. We get that, but would it not be better to just not spend at all? We'll get in to that later.
PLANT TR££S & BUY MORE
Don't buy into mass consumerism, just because there's a green twist.
Mindful consumption, rather than simply green consumption, should be the goal.
Get involved
Feel free to use the images, drop us a DM on Instagram @admissionassistants and we'll send them to you. The more people that see Black Friday for what it is, the better.
The allure of Black Friday is undeniable, with its promise of incredible deals and one-time offers. However, this event is less about genuine bargains and more about fueling mass consumerism. Many of the so-called 'deals' are not as exclusive or beneficial as they appear.
The Illusion of Deals
Research has repeatedly shown that Black Friday deals aren't always the best bargains. For instance, a study by Which? in 2022 found that 98% of discounted items during Black Friday were available at the same or lower prices at other times of the year. This indicates that the urgency and hype around these sales are often artificially created.
Increased Production for False Savings
Many businesses increase their production significantly for Black Friday, only to sell these products at seemingly reduced prices. However, these items are often ones that have been available for less earlier in the year. This increased production for Black Friday contributes to environmental harm and promotes a throwaway culture.
It's interesting to see how people are wising up to this though, I clicked on the comments section of a well known gaming chair ad and people were posting screen shots of pricing earlier in the year which was actually cheaper than their black friday price. Shock horror!
Real Costs of Black Friday
The real cost of Black Friday extends beyond just financial aspects. It impacts the environment due to overproduction and contributes to the exploitation of workers in the fast fashion and retail industries. The increased waste and environmental footprint associated with Black Friday are alarming, with a significant percentage of purchases ending up in landfills or incinerators.
Smart Consumer Choices
As consumers, it's important to recognise these facts and make informed decisions. Opting out of Black Friday and choosing to shop sustainably and ethically can have a positive impact. It's about being mindful of the real cost of these 'deals' and understanding the broader implications of our purchasing choices.
Don't fall for it
Black Friday, under the guise of savings, often perpetuates unhealthy consumer habits and environmental harm. By choosing not to participate and questioning the true value of these deals, we can take a stand against mass consumerism and its negative impacts.
Black Friday SUCKS
Don't buy things because someone tells you to.
It's not a deal, it never was a deal.
Get involved
Feel free to use the images, drop us a DM on Instagram @admissionassistants and we'll send them to you. The more people that see Black Friday for what it is, the better.
Black Friday at admissionassistants is DENIED.
At admissionassistants, we're well know for our firm stand against Black Friday. We believe this event, known for its massive sales and seemingly great deals, is actually a harmful celebration of excessive consumerism and wasteful culture, which contradicts our values.
The Harsh Reality of Black Friday
Black Friday poses significant harm to our planet and its inhabitants. It often involves purchasing unnecessary items, burdening both the workers who produce them and the environment. Many Black Friday deals aren't even genuine bargains.
A 2022 study by Which? revealed that 98% of these so-called discounts were available for the same or lower prices at other times of the year. This suggests that Black Friday sales often involve outdated stock or products created specifically for discounting—a practice that encourages unnecessary production and consumption.
The Problem with Fast Fashion
The fast fashion industry, already known for its polluting and exploitative practices, exacerbates the problem by producing more items for these sales. Massive discounts, like those offered by Pretty Little Thing, promote a throwaway culture. Research indicates that 80% of purchases made during Black Friday end up in landfills, incineration, or low-quality recycling.
Questioning Business Practices
Many businesses use Black Friday to clear old stock and make room for new products, perpetuating a harmful cycle of overproduction. This raises questions about the responsibilities of brands and their prioritisation of profit over sustainability.
Our Role as Consumers
As consumers, we have the power to change this by not participating in Black Friday sales. Decreased sales can encourage businesses to reconsider their strategies and practices.
Our Approach
Instead of participating in Black Friday, we focuses on positive actions and sustainable practices throughout the year. We choose to spend the actual day outdoors as a team, enjoying each others company and reflecting on our commitment to doing good every day.
We're grateful to our community for supporting admissionassistants and our mission every other day of the year.
Get on board
Feel free to use and share the images. Drop us a DM on Instagram @admissionassistants and we'll send them to you. BLACK FRIDAY SUCKS. Deny it. Cancel it.
As we ventured out to take some photos of the new Save Our Rivers 'Dyffryn' t shirt, we found ourselves immersed in more than just a session of capturing some photos.
'Dyffryn', which symbolises the profound connection we share with our rivers, turned out to be more than just a name; it became a call to action.
The setting for our shoot was as picturesque as it gets - down by the brook, where the serene whispers of flowing water complemented the tranquility of the surrounding nature - ok, we made the path behind the Community Centre in 00166 sound pretty impressive right there, but nonetheless, it's a five minute walk from the office. Zero carbon footprint photography!
It was here that Jas and Carlos, donning the new 'Dyffryn' T-shirt and its long sleeve variant, became the faces of our commitment to river conservation.
Something beyond the lens caught our attention. Litter. Scattered carelessly along the banks of the brook, was marring the natural beauty we so cherish. This sight struck a chord with us. admissionassistants has always been more than just a clothing brand; it's a community that cares deeply about the environment. So, there we were, in a spontaneous yet profound moment, picking up the litter, from the river, wearing Save Our Rivers t shirts.
This impromptu clean-up wasn't planned, but it aligned perfectly with the spirit of why admissionassistants and Save Our Rivers work together. We can't just look at it anymore, we can't stand by and watch it happen. Enough is enough.
Any Save Our Rivers T-shirt is more than just a piece of clothing. It's a symbol of commitment to protecting and preserving rivers and natural spaces. Unintentionally, the photos captured not only the awesome new Save Our Rivers tees, but also the essence of our mission - to make a positive impact on the environment.
In the end, this was about more than just a photoshoot. It was a reminder of the responsibility we hold towards our planet. Each T-shirt sold is a step towards a cleaner, healthier environment, a tribute to the rivers that give so much to us.
As we continue to explore and celebrate the natural world, we remain steadfast in our commitment to protect it. Join us in our mission to save our rivers, one T-shirt and one clean-up at a time.
Buy the new Save Our Rivers t shirt and longsleeve, support the work they do and represent you passion for preserving our wild spaces.
]]>
Rallying for the Protection of Afon Cynfal
The developers are back and for Save Our Rivers the fight is back on.
We need your help to safeguard one of Wales' most treasured landscapes: the Afon Cynfal.
Save Our Rivers are champions of our waterways, guardians of free flowing rivers and stand up to represent & protect the landscapes they love.
Mission: To protect the stunning cascades of the Afon Cynfal, a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) in the heart of Wales.
What's Happening? In 2019, this iconic site faced a threat from a proposed hydroelectric development, which planned to dam and divert water from the falls. Thanks to the overwhelming support from our community and the objections raised by Save Our Rivers and the Snowdonia Society, the site was saved.
However, the fight is not over. Recently, a revised Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) was submitted for the same hydro scheme. Despite additional surveys, the concerns remain. The proposed development could significantly impact the river's ecology, the surrounding bog area, and the aesthetics of this culturally vital landscape.
Key Concerns:
Our Stand: admissionassistants and Save Our Rivers believe the development should be rejected. The minor power output it promises does not justify the extensive ecological and aesthetic damage to this culturally significant area.
How Can You Help? Your action is crucial. We urge you to join us in opposing this scheme. LEARN MORE, and fill in the survey: MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD.
Together, we can protect the Afon Cynfal and ensure that our natural heritage remains intact for future generations.
If we're going to change the World and protect what we believe in, we're going to have to work together. Business, brands, people, organisations. Collaboration is key to impact.
Make an impact in protecting our precious waterways: FILL OUT THE SURVEY and oppose the scheme.
Help spread awareness & support Save Our Rivers: Shop Now
We firmly believe that collective action is the key to driving positive change, we can all play a part in protecting what we love.
Ghost Fishing UK's Scotland fundraising campaign provides an excellent opportunity for you to contribute (as donations are tripled!).
]]>At admissionassistants, we are deeply committed to sustainability and protecting our planet. That's why we are excited to shine a spotlight on Ghost Fishing UK and their inspiring Ghost Net campaign in Scotland.
Join us as we delve into the incredible work being done by this organization to combat ghost fishing net and preserve our marine ecosystems.
Cut to the chase, get your donation tripled here.
A Brief Overview: Ghost Fishing UK is a non-profit organization dedicated to removing lost, abandoned, and discarded fishing gear, commonly referred to as "ghost net," from our oceans.
Ghost net poses a severe threat to marine life, entangling and injuring countless creatures, including whales, dolphins, seals, and fish.
Scotland Fundraising Campaign: Ghost Fishing UK has launched a new and vital project in the Shetland Islands, located off the northeastern coast of Scotland. This campaign aims to tackle the issue of ghost net by conducting diving expeditions to retrieve and responsibly dispose of abandoned nets, traps, and lines.
By collaborating with local fishermen, marine experts, and volunteers, Ghost Fishing UK is creating a powerful force for change. The Shetland Project sets an example for other coastal communities, showcasing how proactive efforts can make a significant difference in preserving marine ecosystems.
Impacting Marine Conservation: The devastating consequences of ghost gear cannot be understated. Lost fishing equipment continues to catch and kill marine animals long after it has been discarded. This destructive cycle perpetuates the decline of marine populations and disrupts the balance of delicate ecosystems.
Ghost Fishing UK actively works to break this cycle. By meticulously removing ghost gear from the seas, they safeguard marine life and protect vital habitats. In addition, they collect valuable data on the types and locations of ghost gear, contributing to a better understanding of the problem and enabling more targeted prevention strategies.
How You Can Make a Difference: We firmly believe that collective action is the key to driving positive change, we can all play a part in protecting what we love. Ghost Fishing UK's Scotland fundraising campaign provides an excellent opportunity for you to contribute.
You can show your support by donating to the Ghost Fishing UK's Shetland Project through their page on the Aviva Community Fund website.
All donations are TRIPLED through the Aviva Fund.
By supporting their Scotland fundraising campaign, we can all play a role in protecting our oceans and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.
At admissionassistants we are proud to stand alongside Ghost Fishing UK in their mission. Let's come together as a community of nature enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, and sustainability advocates to make a difference in the fight against ghost gear. Together, we can create a healthier, cleaner, and more vibrant ocean environment for all.
Take action and DONATE HERE.
Other ways you can support Ghost Fishing:
- Find out how you can get involved here
- Buy Ghost Fishing merch (some of which is made by us!)
]]>As a Certified B Corp, we use our business as a force for good, putting people and the planet first. So we thought we'd take some time out to showcase some B Corps that we love and why.
]]>As a Certified B Corp, we along with over 1000 B Corps in the UK use our business as a force for good, putting people and the planet first. So we thought we'd take some time out to showcase some of those B Corps that we love and why. If you want to find out more about what it means being a B Corp, check out our blog; What Is a B Corp?
We'll be highlighting some of our favourite B Corp brands, including Picture Organic Clothing, Keep Cup, Pukka Herbs, Klean Kanteen, and finally, us, admissionassistants.
Visiting our stores? Well take a look around and you'll find a selection of these B Corps at our retail locations, providing you with the opportunity to support businesses that prioritise social and environmental responsibility.
Picture Organic Clothing is a trailblazer in the world of sustainable fashion. They produce outdoor apparel made from organic, recycled, and bio-sourced materials. Picture Organic Clothing is committed to minimising their environmental impact while creating durable and fashionable clothing for outdoor enthusiasts.
Keep Cup is revolutionising the way we consume coffee on the go. Their reusable and customisable coffee cups reduce single-use plastic waste. By choosing Keep Cup, you can enjoy your favourite beverage sustainably, knowing that you are contributing to the reduction of plastic pollution.
Pukka Herbs is renowned for its organic, fair-trade herbal teas. They source ingredients from around the world, supporting small-scale farmers and promoting sustainable agriculture. Pukka Herb's commitment to biodiversity, ethical sourcing, and responsible packaging makes every sip a step towards a healthier planet.
Klean Kanteen manufactures reusable stainless steel bottles and containers. By replacing single-use plastic bottles, Klean Kanteen helps reduce waste and promotes healthier hydration choices. Their products are not only durable and stylish but also free from harmful chemicals found in many plastic alternatives.
Last but not least, it's us, admissionassistants. Holding our own in the big leagues. A certified B Corp brand, committed to creating high-quality outdoor apparel and gear while minimising our environmental impact. Our products are designed to inspire a connection with nature and encourage sustainable outdoor experiences.
You can read more about our B Corp journey here.
Supporting B Corp brands goes beyond purchasing a product -it's a vote for a more sustainable and socially responsible future. Picture Organic Clothing, Keep Cup, Pukka Tea, Klean Kanteen, and admissionassistants are just a few examples of the many inspiring B Corps out there.
Using B Corps Global Directory, you can search B Corps to buy from, work with, or just learn more about Certified B Corporations around the world.
Otherwise, come and visit our 00166 and Totnes retail stores and discover the brands mentioned and be part of the movement towards a more conscious and ethical marketplace. Together, we can create a world where business thrives while making a positive impact on people and the planet 🙌
]]>On Saturday 20th May, Ocean Activists across the UK joined forces with Surfers Against Sewage to demand water companies
stop making a profit from pollution, saying no to sewage in our blue spaces - effectively, we've had enough of your shit.
]]>On Saturday 20th May, Ocean Activists across the UK joined forces with Surfers Against Sewage to demand water companies stop making a profit from pollution.
With the ultimate goal to say no to sewage in our blue spaces - effectively, we've had enough of your shit.
We joined one of the 12 protests happening in the UK, in Warleigh Weir, Bath. This particular gathering was hosted by the team over at Earth Minutes. 
"Say it loud, say it clear - no more dirty water here!" Emma Askew, founder of Earth Minutes leading the charge!
From Edinburgh all the way down to Falmouth, hundreds of passionate paddlers and ocean lovers came together with a united goal of speaking up for our rivers and oceans to end sewage pollution.
"The UK sewage system is at breaking point. It’s under huge strain from a growing population and the increasing frequency of extreme weather events caused by climate change. Built on a Victorian system, our decaying sewage infrastructure is in desperate need of investment.
But rather than spending money where it’s needed, water companies are stuffing their pockets with our money while failing environmental targets and pillaging our waterways. They continue to get away with regularly dumping untreated sewage into our blue spaces for millions of hours every year whilst regulators and The Government turn a blind eye. This needs to stop now." - Surfers Against Sewage
There were 301,091 sewage spills in 2022, according to Environment Agency data - the equivalent of 824 a day.
Water UK, the governing body for water companies apologised for the sewage scandal and promised £10bn of investment to improve our antiquated sewage system.
"The message from the water and sewage industry today is clear - we are sorry" Water UK's chair Ruth Kelly
But an apology just won't cut it so...
Through collective efforts of campaigning throughout the country, the message is getting heard, apologies are being made and progress is happening. But it doesn't end here, far from it. Here are some of the ways you can help out:
Join Surfers Against Sewage in signing their Dirty Money Petition to demand an end to profiting from pollution.
"For too long water companies have been regularly pumping untreated sewage into our rivers and seas, racking up enormous fines and making huge financial losses, but still paying out millions of pounds to their shareholders. And it needs to stop." - SAS
Inform yourselves and raise awareness - try to keep in the loop, learn from others and challenge those in power starting with demanding action from your local MP.
Surfers Against Sewage are demanding to end sewage discharges into UK bathing waters and a 90% reduction in sewage discharges by 2030.
From our collective group of 80 people in Warleigh Weir, the energy was unmatched, there is a real want for change and we're optimistic by working together.
Let’s collectively #EndSewagePollution
]]>One of the reasons we founded our store in Gili Trawangan was to be able to make a difference in the fight against climate change in a place that is heavily affected by it
Between our almost 50 people strong trash team we collected over 100kg of trash and recyclables. In an hour, 100kg 😮
]]>One of the reasons we founded our store in Gili Trawangan was to be able to make a difference in the fight against climate change in a place that is heavily affected by it. If you aren't aware of Gili Trawangan, it's one of the Gili Islands, just off the northwest coast of Lombok, Indonesia.
It truly is a beautiful part of the world, and we should all do our part to preserve and protect it. Whether you were born there, moved there or just holidaying there, you shouldn't have to negotiate litter on the beach. Neither should the local ocean inhabitants. We all get that, but the reality is trash washes in, trash gets dumped and bit after bit just gets dropped.
The Gili Eco Trust is an NGO based on Gili Trawangan. It was founded in 2002 to protect coral reefs around the Gili islands from destructive fishing. Our partnership with Gili Eco Trust is designed to extend their reach and raise awareness, fund raise and help build an engaged following that is able to act when called upon.
By partnering with them we are able to help promote and produce positive change, on the ground, where it really counts. And that's exactly what we are doing, now having a base of operations in Gili Trawangan, we regularly host and work on Beach Clean Litter Picks 🏝️ 🚯
The Latest Beach Clean 🙏
All beach cleans start off with some insight in to what we're picking up, what can and what can't be recycled and some of the initiatives on the island that help tackle reoccurring issues. As you can see below, Sian is leading the discussion!
Once everyone has the down low, we then broke out the sacks, with sacks dedicated to different things, be it trash, recycling or glass. There's also an unreal amount of cigarette butts out there, so single use plastic bottles get a second life to collect those.
We took a rectangular route, from the store past the edge of the night market and then along the beach past Manta Dive and Sama Sama, before cutting back inland and round to the shop.
The clean up itself is really only half of the story. The cleans gather momentum and people as you move along the roads on the beach. People join in, people bring you trash to add to your bag, people see you collecting rubbish and instantly become aware of the rubbish around them and the need to pick it up.
Every beach clean educates and inspires people in to making a difference.
It would be fair to say that there were roughly 50 people on the beach clean, engaging at least the same number again whilst moving along. That's another 50 people throwing a couple of bits of trash in to bags, so that's not only trash not in the street or the beach, but people actively getting involved, perhaps for the first time.
Between our almost 50 people strong trash team we collected over 100kg of trash and recyclables. In an hour, 100kg 😮
All good beach cleans finish with a refreshment, after all it's hard work! We were of course happy to oblige and had a fridge full of Bintang and soft drinks ready for the crew.
The community here is strong, with other businesses and locals coming along to get involved, but what's more amazing is the people passing through, the backpackers and holidaymakers, giving up their time to join in the clean and help leave the Gili Islands a better place than when they found it.
We've been working with the Gili Eco Trust through our membership of 1% for the Planet for years now. Our Gili Trawangan store manager Nizar regularly shows up for the beach cleans, wherever they are taking place on the island and as the store and it's employees grow, we are proud to be able to give time and help even more.
Our Gili Trawangan store manager Nizar
You can support the actions of Gili Eco Trust by donating directly, joining them as a volunteer, or picking up one of our collaboration t shirts.
]]>Individuals can also play a crucial role in reducing their carbon footprint. They can start by reducing the number of unnecessary journeys, start carpooling, and use public transport where possible.
Going paddling for the weekend with your pals? Could you all travel together?
]]>Recently, admissionassistants founder, Rory, hosted a free webinar with fellow B Corps, Water Skills Academy and Dryrobe, discussing what positive environmental actions you can take as an individual and as a business.
For those who weren't able to attend, we wanted to break down the main points covered in the conversation through a series of blogs. Check out the first one on Banking and the second one on Renewable Energy.
The current global climate crisis requires us to rethink our travel options and reduce our carbon footprint. According to the International Energy Agency, the transportation sector accounts for around one-quarter of energy-related carbon dioxide emissions, making it a significant contributor to global warming. Therefore, as individuals and businesses, we must find ways to reduce our impact.
Better journey planning is a critical step in reducing unnecessary travel and making more sustainable choices. For businesses, this could mean choosing more environmentally friendly travel options, like not travelling at all, or more carbon friendly options like trains and public transport, over planes and cars.
No one was immune from Zoom and Teams during the pandemic and that vibe has continued to roll on. If businesses can also use virtual meetings to reduce the number of trips by employees, we're on to a winner!
Individuals can also play a crucial role in reducing their carbon footprint. They can start by reducing the number of unnecessary journeys, start carpooling, and use public transport where possible.
Going paddling for the weekend with your pals? Could you all travel together?
TRAVEL BY ANYTHING OTHER THAN A PLANE
Aviation plays a huge part in carbon emissions and reducing our flights will make a large individual difference. If you've ever worked out your individual carbon footprint, flying takes up a huge portion of it, even if you only fly a few times per year.
So we're back to trains for the win! But if you do have to travel by plane, is there a more direct route you could take. Sites like Skyscanner now highlight lower carbon routes to help us make better choices when we do have to travel by plane.
As a business we are Climate Neutral Certified, which means we measure our Scope 1, 2 & 3 emissions and compensate for them. We also have a reduction plan in place to help us work out where and how to reduce those emissions. You can find out more about that here: admissionassistants Climate Neutral.
Whilst we have emissions from travel, the bulk of our emissions is shipping. We've reduced our travel year on year and continue to work hard on bringing our shipping emissions down, by continuing to use sea freight over air freight where we can.
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Once we set off, people broke off into groups of 2/3 where one person could document whilst the other picked. On the day, we had around 5 groups all collectively doing our part, it was nice to see new and familiar faces and see everyone was just super keen to get stuck in! We found a whole range of litter in the few hours, from energy drinks galore, cigarette butts, vapes, wheels from a bike, signage from worksites...the list goes on. Luckily for us, we took the time to document our findings and break down in weight exactly what we discovered.
Whether it was buried in the shrubbery or thrown out a car on the street, there was a lot to be collected, with a grand total of 3kg, 1.8kg of cans and 1.2kg of bottles. The biggest offender here was Coca Cola, with the specific product being Monster Energy.
Heading out to the forest path just past the Community Centre, we found various types of hard plastic, from cones to most notably, a bicycle wheel - I mean, where's the rest of the bike? 👀
We also found this action figure, safe to say I think the kids took him home - repurposing at it's finest!
Admittedly this was mostly due to one metallic object, this discarded and heavily destroyed [inset here whatever you think this object used to be]. Sadly, we found this buried under the mud, which of course was massively rusting meaning there was lots of smaller bits of metal around the site we found it. This was a sad find, not only as it wasn't properly discarded but the object is super harmful to the local inhabitants, both people and wildlife.
Wrappers, dog waste, vapes - we had bags full of the stuff. I think it's safe to say that most of the finding here were from the street and carpark with some of the biggest offenders being vapes and cigarette packaging/butts. With ongoing work around the village, we came across lots of signs which had had been swallowed by the ground; for example we found this massive amount of general waste underneath this STOP sign.
A nest, seemingly filled with rubbish, pretty sad.
We have now submitted the data from our haul as part of the Million Mile Clean. Surfers Against Sewage will then use all the data provided to call out the biggest plastic polluters and lobby the government for legislative change.
We had a blast hosting our first Community Litter Pick and will now be holding them monthly every first Saturday - hopefully next time we'll be heading out to the moors 🙌
Recently admissionassistants founder, Rory, hosted a free webinar with fellow B Corps, Water Skills Academy and Dryrobe, discussing what positive environmental actions you can take as an individual and as a business.
For those who weren't able to attend, we wanted to break down the main points covered in the conversation through a series of blogs. See the first entry in this series about Sustainable Banking.
Simply put, Renewable Energy is derived from natural resources that can be replenished over time and are not finite. This includes solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, and biomass energy sources. Unlike non-renewable energy sources such as fossil fuels, renewable energy sources have a lower impact on the environment and can be harnessed in a sustainable way.
We can get in to why some of those sources aren't as good as they are cracked up to be another time. For now we want to focus on the switch away from fossil fuels.
Overall, green energy offers a more sustainable, secure, and cost-effective way to power our homes, businesses, and communities, while reducing our impact on the environment and mitigating the effects of climate change.
Talking with our fellow B Corps, Dryrobe they shared that 100% of their energy is renewable, which is awesome. Water Skills Academy have no central office, but encourage anyone working from home to go renewable and have a policy in place to help facilitate this.
We're with Opus Energy and Octopus Energy, who both only provide renewable energy. Octopus is also a B Corp!
We were all in agreement that renewable energy still comes at a price, however if we want to see energy change on a scale that is going to effect climate change, that is a price we have to be willing to pay.
Whilst the list of green energy suppliers is growing, the most important choice you can make is to choose a supplier that only does renewable energy.
There's nothing green about churning out the fossil fuels and doing a bit of the green on the side.
There are a couple of energy suppliers in the UK that are certified B Corporations, which means they meet certain social and environmental standards, meaning that not only are they good with the products they sell, they are a business that's in it for good - literally the opposite of most energy suppliers who are all in it for money.
Suppliers that only supply energy from renewable sources are key, those are the ones to switch to.
Switching right now is difficult, the price of energy across the board is crazy. However being informed and ready to switch when you can is a great next step.
Renewable energy comes at a price, however if we want to see energy change on a scale that is going to effect climate change, that is a price we have to be willing to pay.
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Recently admissionassistants founder, Rory, hosted a free webinar with fellow B Corps, Water Skills Academy and Dryrobe, discussing what positive environmental actions you can take as an individual and as a business.
For those who weren't able to attend, we wanted to break down the main points covered in the conversation through a series of blogs.
As we become more conscious of the impact that our actions have on the environment, it's important to recognise that our choices extend beyond our individual actions. The businesses we support and the financial institutions we use also play a significant role in shaping the world we live in. One area where this is particularly relevant is in the banking industry, which has a significant impact on our planet through how those banks use our money.
In this blog post, we'll explore the concept of sustainable business banking, the impact of fossil fuel funding, and how we can make better choices when it comes to who we bank with.
Sustainable business banking is about giving your hard earned money, to banks that prioritise environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors in their decision-making processes. These banks prioritize funding projects that have a positive impact on the environment and society, such as renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and affordable housing. They also take steps to reduce their own carbon footprint and promote sustainable practices within their operations.
Despite the growing interest in sustainable banking, many traditional banks continue to fund fossil fuel projects, contributing to the climate crisis. According to a report by Rainforest Action Network, the world's largest banks provided $3.8 trillion in financing to the fossil fuel industry between 2016 and 2020. This funding enables the expansion of the fossil fuel industry, which is responsible for a significant portion of global greenhouse gas emissions.
The impact of fossil fuel funding goes beyond just environmental concerns. These projects can also have negative social impacts on local communities, such as displacement and loss of livelihoods.
So, how can we make better choices when it comes to who we bank with? One option is to choose a greener bank that prioritizes sustainability in their funding choices. There are several banks that have made significant commitments to sustainability, such as Triodos Bank, which only funds projects that have a positive impact on society and the environment.
Image is from Bank.Green - it's not all good news from the admissionassistants camp though 😅
When choosing a greener bank, it's important to do your research and understand their policies and practices. Look for banks that have made strong commitments to sustainability, have transparent reporting on their funding choices, and have a track record of following through on their commitments.
Choosing a greener bank is just one step in the fight against climate change. By supporting sustainable banking practices, we send a message to traditional banks that their funding choices have real-world consequences. By voting with our wallets, we can help shift the financial industry towards more sustainable practices and contribute to a greener future for all.
By choosing greener banks, we can support sustainable projects and send a message to traditional banks that their funding choices have consequences. As consumers, we have the power to vote with our wallets and make a real difference in the fight against climate change.
The "big four" UK banks - Barclays, HSBC, Lloyds Banking Group, and Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) - have all provided significant funding to the fossil fuel industry in recent years. According to data from the Rainforest Action Network, between 2016 and 2020:
Barclays provided $118 billion in financing to the fossil fuel industry.
HSBC provided $87 billion in financing to the fossil fuel industry.
Lloyds Banking Group provided $10 billion in financing to the fossil fuel industry.
RBS provided $8 billion in financing to the fossil fuel industry.
The big four UK banks have a significant impact on the funding of fossil fuels.
Get informed. Find out where your bank rates on the scale and if they are funding fossil fuels with your money.
Move your money. Banks investing in fossil fuels can't invest your money if you move it elsewhere. Find a sustainable bank and switch over to it.
Finding out about your bank and making the switch is easier than you might think.
TAKE ACTION: Visit Bank.Green
Whilst we have a Triodos account, we also have a Santander account and a Wise account.
Santander is a big offender and we are working on moving away from them to a more sustainable bank, however we do have business loans through Santander, so will have some banking with them for the near future. We will however be able to minimise our use of their bank through switching to a more sustainable bank for our day to day banking.
Triodos is a stand out bank in terms of ESG, their personal banking functions well but business banking still lacks in areas we are all somewhat accustomed to in terms of online, speed and ease of use - features we heavily reply on for our day to day business banking.
Bank.Green doesn't know enough about Wise yet to rate them.
The image below comes from Bank.Green - it's a reminder that we have to try harder to do better and that putting it off it's good enough.
This route is known within the team for its litter drops and amongst the locals, 'vehicular incidents' - meaning debris, and a lot of it, especially on the day we set off.
As we planned on getting everything we could, we knew that would mean stumbling across heavier items, such as tyres, scaffolding poles...you name it. So with that being the case, we took the team van out to the further point on the map. 
The way it worked was simple, the team of 7 broke down into three separate groups of 2 (Jack was the odd one out but someone had to take the pictures...👀). From there, we would have a grabber and bagger with someone documenting what was being found. 
Chelsie was one of the documenters. The list was fairly simple, we had broken down a double sided A4 into types of items and the worst polluters we could think off and know products of theirs can be found (Cough Coca Cola Cough)
Considering we were only out for a good few hours, it's shocking the amount of rubbish we found and collected. Some of these items include:
• Enough car parts to effectively build a new car 🚗
• An (almost) full McDonalds Meal 🍔
• 750 Cigarettes butts 🚬
In those hours, we collected a (whopper)ing 26.1kg of rubbish and recycling. All found on the road to 00166 from ROMA. Crazy. The sad part was we saw the real time effect and damage this was having on the environment and inhabitants.
Readers, meet the Dartmoor residents, the ponies, horses and sheep.
Bex, one of the admissionassistants crew was telling us that when it comes to feeding time, the local residents often scour the roadside and ground nearby. The only problem is that more often than not, this is the 'food' they go for:
Yup, from car parts, shoes to lots of microplastics, it isn't good news. In one 5 metre spot we picked up over 100 fragments of plastic, all from car headlights and bumpers.
The Dartmoor Preservation Society has launched a fund raising campaign to directly support the DNPA in appealing the court and targeting a rights based system for wild campers to enjoy Dartmoor.
Find out how to support it.
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I think we can all agree that these last few months has been somewhat overwhelming in regards to the ongoing Dartmoor National Park Wild Camping situation. Unsure what we are talking about? Check out our original blog here to catch up.
From court ruling, protests, online petitions and new systems being introduced - it's hard to gage exactly what's going on and what the future of Wild Camping holds in store for all of us. In this blog, we'll do our best to document the situation and shed some light.
ALEXANDER DARWALL
As most of you will know, late in 2022, our access to the wild spaces we love came under threat from wealthy landowner, Alexander Darwall, the sixth-largest landowner on Dartmoor. Alexander Darwall had predominantly taken to the courts to query the Dartmoor Commons Act of 1985 - more specially, the assumed right to wild camp in the whole national park. He argued that he was unable to order individual campers off his land and that this right did not exist.
This was big news amongst the wild campers and roamers. Why? Well, as mentioned, Darwall is the sixth largest landowner on Dartmoor and if this case won in his favour it could cause a ripple effect encouraging following landowners to follow suite. Again, early days, but the news was certainly alarming.
THE ROAMERS
Once this information had come to light, roamers, lovers of the outdoors and wild campers alike banded together. It was truly inspiring and heart warming seeing people come together and stand up for what they believe in, rallies were held, notably in 00166 and London.
Rory was fortunate to be asked to speak at the 00166 event, he talked about our community here and how important access to the wild spaces we love is to the people of 00166 and Dartmoor as a whole. He talked about our rights to experience those places and along with that, our responsibilities to protect them.
Following that there was an organised protest hike across the moors which started on our doorstep. We enjoyed the company of like minded individuals along the route and got to talk about the issues at hand and how it could affect us and future generations.
Through these interactions we found certain individuals, campaigners and social media influencers were key in raising awareness and shedding light on the situation, we'd recommend looking them up for additional and ongoing information.
• Right 2 Roam; a formation of campaigners made up of ramblers, activists and explorers.
• The Stars Are For Everyone; An IG page dedicated to spreading awareness and events.
• Muddy_Bootlaces, otherwise known as Beca, an activist who shares her own personal stories and key in the discussions in the community.
In general, it was truly amazing to see people showcasing their love for the wild spaces and collectively standing together to say no 🙌
THE COURT VERDIT
Sadly, on the 13th of January 2023, the court case provided us with a tragic outcome - the case was won in the favour of Darwall. In the high court, Timothy Morshead KC, Darwall's representative stated that allowing people to camp without a landowner’s consent would be a “deprivation of the ability to decide who should and should not camp on one’s land” and added that those camping have caused nuisance and litter."
Sir Julian Flaux, the chancellor of the high court, ruled that Darwall’s lawyers were correct and that the right did not exist across Dartmoor. So from this date onwards, the ruling came into immediate effect.
“In my judgment, on the first issue set out at [14] above, the claimants are entitled to the declaration they seek that, on its true construction, section 10(1) of the 1985 Act does not confer on the public any right to pitch tents or otherwise make camp overnight on Dartmoor Commons. Any such camping requires the consent of the landowner.” - Sir Julian Flaux, the chancellor of the high court
The team here were saddened to hear the news, especially given that wild camping was deemed as non-recreational, but activities such as walking, horseback and picnicking are - go figure. So what was next? Well, from this point onwards, permission is now required from the landowner if you are looking to wild camp.
The detail has yet to be developed but in essence landowners would enter into a legal agreement with the National Park which would grant permission to the Authority to allow the public to wild camp on specified land. For these areas a member of the public wishing to wild camp would not have to seek the approval of the landowner as it would already have been granted via the agreement.
People wild camping will not be charged under this system. The new agreements will involve a payment to landowners by DNPA, but the amount has not yet been discussed in detail.
The short answer is yes, yes you can. With the new Permissive System mentioned above, there are more areas of land which is now accessible. We can understand it's easy to read the headlines and get swooped up in the turmoil, but...
Wild Camping is definitely still around and accessible.
Sure, it has changed and there are some very 'grey' areas cropping up in discussions, but ultimately, activities such as Duke of Edinburgh and 10 Tors are still available to all. Here's a super insightful interactive map, which is consistently updated with where is possible to wild camp:
WHAT NOW?
It's no secret that there are so many great Dartmoor adventures that can be experienced, from walking routes, running routes and even just leisurely strolls. Well now you can pick up one our litter pickers!
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It's no secret that there are so many great Dartmoor adventures that can be experienced, from walking routes, running routes and even just leisurely strolls. Many of those start from our main 00166 Store, which means fantastic coffee and brownies - the perfect kick start to your day, or a well earned reward at the end of the day, either way, it's good times alround!
Trash washes in from the ocean, but it also comes from being thrown away, with many people here still burning and discarding their waste. It's an uphill struggle that the Gili Eco Trust have been tackling for years, the progress is evident but theres still plenty to be done.
]]>But the Gili Islands is a place like no other, and week in week out, tourists show up and join in with locals and the Gili Eco Trust to help keep the beaches of the Gili Trawangan trash free.
Trash washes in from the ocean, but it also comes from being thrown away, with many people here still burning and discarding their waste. It's an uphill struggle that the Gili Eco Trust have been tackling for years, the progress is evident but theres still plenty to be done.
Every Friday at 5pm the Gili Eco Trust in collaboration with businesses on the island organise a beach clean. This weeks was with The Exile, perhaps the most authentic place to watch the sunset on the island (with the exception of a few more tables, The Exile hasn't changed in the ten years I've been coming here!).
The beach cleans last about an hour and you'll learn a bunch about what can and can't be recycled here on the island. You'll also be rewarded at the end by the collaborating business with a refreshment.
A beer for picking up some rubbish, does Friday night start any better??
The stats:
In just under an hour about 20 of us collected a massive 81kg off the beach.
28kg of recycling
22kg of glass bottles
31kg of trash
Single use food containers are one of the biggest polluters in Indonesia, the polystyrene containers wash up all over the place and on this beach clean, we picked up 110 of them. It's madness that companies here still use polystyrene for their packaging, but then so do many takeaways in the UK.
There's always a few fun finds and a few shocking ones. Whilst this beach clean only brought in a few flip flops, there's been Fridays where there's been hundreds of flip flops!
There's a lot of plastic water bottles, but that is to be expected in a place where you cannot drink the water from the tap. Refill culture is growing though and there are plenty of places to refill your water bottle on the island.
If you're in the Gili Islands and would like to get involved, check out Gili Eco Trust or pop by the admissionassistants store for more information on where and when the next clean is.
Sians relentless enthusiasm for picking up trash and making the world a better place is infectious.
We'll continue to support the Gili Eco Trust through making t shirts, contributing through 1% for the Planet and getting our staff in Indonesia out on the ground with them in any way we can.
Oral hygiene is so important, who throws away a perfectly good toothbrush?!
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Up next is a Dartmoor classic, Haytor. Easily one of the most popular destinations for Dartmoor fans. The tor and the area surrounding it is super interesting and well worth exploring, especially if you're with the family!
The best carpark is the National Park Visitor Centre, which also has, you guessed it, a Visitor Centre, great for learning more information.
Postcode is: TQ13 9XT
From either of the car parks for Haytor, it is really easy to reach the iconic volcanic outcrop. There are different footpaths all leading up a hill to the top. Once you reach the top, expect amazing views of Dartmoor.(if the weather is good!) But the fun doesn't end there, when you're descending back, take a little detour to Haytor Quarry!
If you want more of a longer journey, we'd recommend heading out from Haytor to Houndtor, just 2 miles north, expect about a 40 minute walk there! Something worth checking out (alongside taking everything in) is at the base of the tor, where the remains of an abandoned medieval village lie, known as Hundatora, a deserted medieval village. In summary, a great hike with some fascinating history - what more could you want!
Kristin from the admissionassistants team personally loves this route and specifically Hound Tor, as it was her first ever tor she hiked when moving to the UK! 🙌
So that about wraps it up, a small glimpse into some of our teams favourite locations on Dartmoor. We highly recommend that this January, you start the year off right and take in the beauty that is our home, Dartmoor. And whilst you're doing it, why not grab a bag or litter picker and clean up, after-all it's everyones responsibility to protect the places we love.
- the admissionassistants team -
Parts of Dartmoor are the only place you can legally wild camp in England and wealthy land owners are in court on Monday in an attempt to change that.
📸 @weekend_hiker & @right.2roam
What can we do to help stop this from happening?
1. Get educated on the issues. There's a good article in the Guardian about the legal challenge and who is behind it. In short, it's a wealthy landowner revoking wild camping rights on Dartmoor and it sets a dangerous precedent for the future of the National Park.
2. Peaceful gathering and a group hike. Show you care and help spread the message that wild camping is an important part of what Dartmoor means to people.
It's an opportunity to showcase a community that loves Dartmoor and wants to protect both it's natural beauty and the right to experience it.
When? Sunday 11th Dec, 11am, outside Dartmoor Visitors Centre, 00166.
3. Peaceful protest to oppose the ban and encourage wild camping to be expanded across the UK. Influencing the decision makers on the ground. Join and hear from activists, poets, writers, hikers, musicians and young people for whom wild camping has been an essential form of inspiration and connection to the natural world. More info: @right.2roam
When? Monday 12th, 12pm, Royal Courts of Justice, London.
4. Spread the message and raise awareness. In our survey 25% of people didn't know Dartmoor National Park was the only place you can legally wild camp in England, yet 95% of people wanted to act immediately to help protect that right.
Share your story: what wild camping and Dartmoor means to you. Help spread the word on what's happening and how people can get involved. Use the tags #savedartmoor #thestarsareforeveryone and tag your friends to help spread the reach!
What are we doing to support?
We're using our platform to spread the word, educate on the issue and provide information to both our community and a wider audience.
We'll be there in person on Sunday, connecting people that love the outdoors with the community we call home.
The right to wild camp on Dartmoor really matters to us and Dartmoor should be a place for all to enjoy and experience, after all that's why National Parks were created:
"The government passes an Act of Parliament to establish National Parks to conserve and enhance their natural beauty and provide recreational opportunities for the public."
What is wild camping and how do you wild camp responsibly?
In a nutshell it's traveling light, staying out of sight, treading lightly and helping keep Dartmoor a beautiful and special place. Dartmoor National Park Authority have a guide on wild camping and also a map on where to wild camp.
From speakers to film nights and of course basecamp (where we can be found for the duration of the event!) the whole town of Kendal is a buzz of outdoor inspired activity.
The mountain festival plays home to the annual Save Our Rivers river clean on the Kent, the river that flows right through the centre of Kendal.
Many of the people involved do not live in Kendal, visiting for the weekend and making the litter pick part of their stay. The river, the riverbanks and the paths surrounding were awash with community spirit and organisations coming together to protect the places we love.
The river clean is the brain child of local resident, paddlesports coach and litter hero, Dan Wilkinson.
In his words, it just needs someone to start, wether it's your local park, local river bank or wherever, just get started and people will join.
It's fun. There's interesting finds and there's giggles along the way. But it's also important to remember river safety and that whilst pulling a bike out can give everyone a good laugh, thats a serious snag hazard that's been removed and a great safety concern dealt with.
Over 250kg of trash was pulled out of the river and surrounding area. A massive win for the river and the life it supports.
To find out more visit Save Our Rivers and Trash Free Trails. Get involved and protect the places you love.
Want to see more? Check out the video created by Save Our Rivers highlighting the day:
📸 Photos by Nicholas White
]]>Our thoughts on Black Friday are well known, but just to clarify, we think Black Friday is 💩
As with previous years on Black Friday we take a different approach to most and we engage in something much more appealing. We shut our stores, close our offices, and roll down the warehouse shutters.
Put simply, we'd rather go hiking.
On Black Friday the team went to admissionassistants woods, which serves as a real gateway to Dartmoor National Park. It's a stones throw from Plymouth, there's free parking and it's on a bus route.
It's also really close to the garage where it all started back in 2013!
The hike up the admissionassistants sure does get the legs burning and the top is a welcome break / photo opportunity!
As we headed across the top, back in the direction of 00166, we took in the sights, found a jelly bog, laughed a lot, and just generally enjoyed each other's company.
Dartmoor is such a magical place, where animals roam free, the moorland rolls for miles and the weather dictates.
We couldn't think of a better place to call home, or a better place to spend Black Friday.
