How businesses are helping nature thrive in Suffolk

How businesses are helping nature thrive in Suffolk

Water vole - Terry Whittaker

Learn how local businesses are working for a better future for nature in our county.

In a time when environmental responsibility is more important than ever, businesses across Suffolk are stepping up to make a difference. From pledging for nature, sponsoring our charitable work, and becoming business ambassadors, there are many ways businesses are coming together to help bring back nature in abundance in Suffolk. 

One inspiring example is Bonitas Wholefoods, an independent, values-led retailer in Stowmarket, whose commitment to sustainability is helping protect the county’s rich natural heritage.

Tree and Ollie Bonitas Wholefoods

Bonitas Wholefoods has joined forces with Suffolk Wildlife Trust through the 1% for the Planet initiative—pledging 1% of their annual turnover (not just profit) to support environmental causes. For the 2024–2025 financial year, they’ve chosen Suffolk Wildlife Trust as their beneficiary, directly contributing to the Trust’s Mission 2030 campaign.

What Is Mission 2030?

Mission 2030 is Suffolk Wildlife Trust’s bold plan to raise £1 million over three years to restore habitats and secure a wilder future for Suffolk. The campaign focuses on four key areas:

  • 🌿 Expanding and connecting wild spaces across 7,000+ acres of nature reserves.
  • 🚜 Partnering with farmers to promote nature-positive practices and reconnect habitats.
  • 🏛️ Advocating for wildlife-friendly planning and strong biodiversity targets across Suffolk.
  • 🌼 Engaging communities to reconnect people with nature.
Bonitas Wholefoods storefront

Why Bonitas Wholefoods Chose to Give Back

Oliver Walters, owner of Bonitas, shared:

“We've been a 1% For The Planet member since we opened our doors in June 2021. We always wanted a regular, structured giving mechanism to enable our business to do as much good as possible. Giving 1% of our annual turnover (not profit) is a really meaningful and effective way for us to support local, regional, national and international environmental charities in a very personal way. We love walking in the Suffolk countryside, so who better than Suffolk Wildlife Trust to be our latest benefactor.”

Bonitas isn’t just a shop—it’s a values-led business offering organic produce, refillable household goods, and sustainable personal care products. Their ethos of ethical sourcing and waste reduction makes them a model for how businesses can align profit with purpose.

What Can Your Business Do?

Whether you run a café, consultancy, or construction firm, there are many ways to support nature in Suffolk:

  • Partner with Suffolk Wildlife Trust to support conservation projects.
  • Join 1% for the Planet and choose a local environmental charity.
  • Adopt sustainable practices in your operations—reduce waste, source locally, and engage your team in nature-positive initiatives.
  • Sponsor or volunteer for habitat restoration or community engagement events.

Let’s Build a Wilder Suffolk Together

Bonitas Wholefoods’ partnership with Suffolk Wildlife Trust shows that small businesses can make a big impact. By making conscious choices, your business can help protect Suffolk’s wildlife and landscapes for generations to come.

If you’re interested in supporting Mission 2030 or exploring partnership opportunities, reach out to:
📧 partnerships@suffolkwildlifetrust.orgLet’s Build a Wilder Suffolk Together

Bonitas Wholefoods’ partnership with Suffolk Wildlife Trust shows that small businesses can make a big impact. By making conscious choices, your business can help protect Suffolk’s wildlife and landscapes for generations to come.

If you’re interested in supporting Mission 2030 or exploring partnership opportunities, reach out to:
📧 partnerships@suffolkwildlifetrust.org