Sustainability
Sustainability at Croft 103
In producing genuinely sustainable buildings we have approached the design with three key aims: low energy, natural materials and renewable energy.
Traditional Building Techniques
Given the stunning North Sutherland scenery and loch-side location, we determined to produce simple but striking buildings that contrasted with but complimented their surroundings. The buildings were constructed using local timber, stone and traditional building techniques with sustainability at the core of every decision.
The stone for external walls and dry stone dykes was sourced on site. The use of sheep’s wool insulation and wood fibre sheathing results in breathable, highly insulated, durable buildings. Tyre bales, produced from used car tyres were also used in the build. The energy required to run the buildings is derived from renewable sources mostly generated on-site.
Carbon Neutral
Wind power is utilised by a small on-site wind turbine. Heating provision is via a large array of solar collectors which provide hot water to large thermal stores. As a result of the energy generated by the solar panels and the wind turbine, overall the cottages are carbon neutral. The result is two stunning, completely unique carbon negative buildings which sit comfortably in their environment in every respect.
Our Green Business Model
The North West Highlands is a UNESCO Global Geopark. A place of stunning mountain landscapes, clean sandy beaches (although not clean enough) and unique cultural heritage which offer one of the best opportunities in Europe to explore the wild.
Mackay’s has developed and operates a sustainable business model which encourages our visitors to explore our unique environment responsibly. We acknowledge the need to minimise the impact our business has on our beautiful location.
We use environmentally friendly, organic guest amenities, cleaning, household and garden products.
We are members of Green Tourism Scheme currently with a Gold Award and continually update and enhance our practice as this becomes possible.
We ask guests to, whenever possible, manage waste effectively, conserve energy, support local businesses, be kind to the environment, lower their carbon footprint, and offset travel.