At Villers Abbey, we are committed to preserving and enhancing our natural heritage while respecting the environment. Our historic site, rich in biodiversity, is a place where history and nature meet, and we make it a point of honor to protect this harmony.
We are proud to have been awarded the Green Key label, a recognition of our ongoing efforts to adopt environmentally friendly practices. This eco-label acknowledges our responsible management, both environmentally and socially. It is also a commitment to continuous improvement.
As managers and staff, we are committed to:
- Limiting the impact of our activities on the environment.
- Respecting current regional legislation while exceeding legal standards.
Concrete Actions
Resource Management
We regularly monitor water and energy consumption to optimize our infrastructure and adopt more economical management practices. We produce part of our energy through a hydroelectric power station.
Waste Reduction
We are working to reduce our waste production and improve waste sorting. You can contribute to this effort by adhering to the sorting instructions during your visit.
Sustainable Food and Local Products
We favor local suppliers and highlight products from short supply chains to reduce our carbon footprint. At Bistro de l'Abbaye, dishes are homemade with seasonal ingredients sourced mostly from local producers. Our boutique also promotes local artisans, offering handmade products ranging from handicrafts to regional food items.
Environmental Protection
We work to limit our impact on air, water, and soil through an ecological management system. As in all public spaces, the use of pesticides is banned.
Villers Abbey is a true haven for biodiversity. In addition to the eco-grazing implemented for the natural maintenance of our grounds, we have chosen not to systematically light the site at night, thereby encouraging the return of rare species. The site is also home to a rich fauna, such as the Eurasian eagle-owl, several species of bats, and rare butterflies that find a protected habitat here.
Awareness and Training
Alongside ongoing training for our staff, we raise our visitors' awareness of environmental issues and encourage them to adopt responsible behaviors during their visit.
Our Social Policy
In addition to our environmental commitment, Villers Abbey strictly complies with legislation on employment rights and equal opportunities. We promote gender equality, diversity among our staff, and apply inclusive practices when welcoming visitors, regardless of their origins or particularities.
Villers Abbey is actively committed to professional reintegration. As a Centre de formation du Forem, we help several dozen people back into employment every year. Finally, we welcome people with disabilities who help us with site maintenance, thereby promoting active and concrete social inclusion.
Our Vision for the Future
Villers Abbey is committed to continually improving its practices to offer our visitors an enriching and environmentally friendly experience, while actively participating in the protection of our natural and cultural heritage. The Green Key label is fully in line with this approach to continuous improvement and external assessment of our actions.
