Sustainability Heroes

Solihull is home to a growing network of businesses proving that being green isn’t just good for the planet—it’s great for people, communities, and the local economy too! From food and farming to aviation and heritage, these sustainability heroes are setting the standard for environmentally responsible practices.

One of the UK’s busiest regional airports, Birmingham Airport is leading the way in cutting emissions. With over 200 solar panels powering parts of its operation and a firm Sustainable strategy, it’s showing what sustainable travel can look like. From low-emission ground vehicles to plans for greener infrastructure, it’s setting a high bar for the aviation sector.

Touchwood Solihull is making sure shopping can be stylish and sustainable. With energy-efficient lighting, extensive recycling programmes, and a commitment to working with tenants on greener practices, it’s transforming retail into a more eco-aware space.

Tucked away in the borough, Castle Bromwich Hall Gardens blends environmental education with centuries of local heritage. This carefully restored walled garden supports biodiversity, promotes sustainable gardening, and creates a peaceful haven for nature lovers and history buffs alike. Their efforts have earned them a well-deserved Bronze Green Tourism Award, recognising their commitment to responsible environmental management and sustainable visitor experiences.

At Hampton Manor, Michelin-starred dining is driven by zero-waste principles and hyper-local ingredients (many grown on-site). This luxury retreat leads by example—proving that top-tier hospitality doesn’t have to come at a cost to the planet. Their flagship restaurant, Grace & Savour, has earned a 5-Star Sustainability rating from the Sustainable Restaurant Association, celebrating its commitment to ethical sourcing, regenerative growing practices, and low-impact dining. The estate is also powered by 100% renewable energy, demonstrating Hampton Manor’s dedication to sustainable operations.

The Barn at Berryfields is a sustainability powerhouse. Its on-site kitchen garden and livestock supply nearly everything used in the café, dramatically cutting food miles. Powered by a 96 kWh solar panel system and aiming to be carbon negative by 2030, the Barn is a shining model of farm-to-fork dining and environmental ambition.

At Berry’s Café on Newlands Bishop Farm, sustainability is intertwined with social impact. The café uses fresh produce grown onsite and creates homemade jams and honey, all while providing meaningful work opportunities for adults with learning disabilities. It’s a wonderful blend of community and environmental responsibility

A Knowle favourite , Eric Lyons Butchers proves that old-school craft and modern sustainability go hand in hand. The team proudly operates a zero food waste policy—transforming surplus cuts into pies, ready meals, and gravies made fresh in-house. Their sourcing is hyper-local too, including beef from Temple Farm just two miles away. Even their packaging is eco-conscious, using Woolcool insulation and recyclable cardboard for nationwide deliveries.

Solihull is also home to a growing number of businesses tackling food waste head-on through the Too Good To Go app. From Starbucks in Touchwood to Marsins Bakers in Hockley Heath, ALDI on Homer Road, and local favourites like Hillfield Farm, these businesses are rescuing surplus food and offering it to customers at a fraction of the price. It’s a win-win: great food stays out of the bin, and residents get to enjoy tasty surprises while supporting sustainability.