Sustainability Policy
Nestled along the banks of the River Fal, Tregothnan has been pioneering botanical firsts since 1334 and sold Britain’s first homegrown tea in 2005. Often likened to Darjeeling, the River Fal is home to a unique cloud forest that creates a microclimate where the finest tea can flourish without the need for plastic covering.
Proudly plastic free since 1334, our journey back to plastic-free isn’t just a statement - it’s a privilege to honour our past while protecting the future.
Tregothnan began experimenting with tea plants in 1999, blending tradition with innovation to create a world-class product that can now be found in some of the finest five-star hotels. This combination of history and modernity is evident in everything we do, from our premium teas to our commitment to sustainability.
Tregothnan: The Future of Sustainable Tea. Teabot tm
At Tregothnan, we are redefining tea production with a commitment to sustainability, ethical practices, and environmental stewardship. As the UK's first tea estate, we combine centuries of heritage with innovative approaches to bring you tea that is as kind to the planet as it is to your cup. There isn’t an equivalent in the world for our pioneering sustainability, so we have invented our own, and trademarked it. Teabot. The worlds first solar powered robotic tea harvester is not only an engineering triumph, but also the pinnacle of sustainable tea harvesting and sets a new level for the whole world.
Why Choose Tregothnan Tea?
1. UK-Grown and Solar-Powered. The first in the UK.
Our teas are grown, processed, and packaged in the UK, minimizing carbon emissions and supporting local communities. Our operation is the first in the world to be powered by solar energy from the plucking to processing, setting a new standard for sustainable tea production.
2. Carbon Neutrality
We are achieving carbon neutrality by offsetting emissions through our biodiversity projects and our massive tree planting initiatives. Our aim is to balance every cup of Tregothnan tea with a positive impact on the planet.
3. Naturally pesticide free and Ethical Sourcing
Many of our teas meet the highest organic standards, and we uphold ethical practices throughout our supply chain. Each product is traceable from leaf to cup, ensuring complete transparency and quality.
4. Supporting Biodiversity
Tregothnan is home to over 90 beehives and the first Manuka honey production site outside New Zealand. We actively protect pollinators and local wildlife, working closely with the Cornwall Wildlife Trust. The tea thrives best in the cloud forest conditions around the 50ft deep river running through Tregothnan.
5. Community Focus
We prioritize local employment and partnerships, contributing to the UK’s rural economy. Our team’s dedication ensures that every cup of tea is a reflection of our shared values. Our garden opening has become the largest event of its kind in the world and expects to donate £1m to charity by 2030.
Our Sustainability Commitments
Zero Waste: we aim to eliminate all non-recyclable waste from our operations.
Energy Efficiency: Leveraging solar power, we reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and cut greenhouse gas emissions.
Fair Trade Standards: We adhere to and exceed global fair trade practices, ensuring equity and respect across our supply chain.
Protecting the Planet: Every purchase supports reforestation, wetland conservation, and marine protection initiatives.
To be here for as long as we have been here (since 1334) means that we draw on centuries of sustainable practices (we were plastic free for 600 years!).