Our approach to sustainability

As a specialist auction house, Quire Auctions recognises sustainability as a natural part of preserving and circulating cultural and historical material.

We prioritise reuse, careful packaging, reduced waste, and efficient shipping, and we aim to operate responsibly across our day-to-day business while remaining transparent and practical in our approach.

1. Our Commitment

Quire Auctions Ltd recognises sustainability as both an environmental responsibility and a natural extension of our role as a steward of cultural and historical material. Our business promotes reuse, preservation, and the circulation of existing books and works on paper.

2. The Nature of the Rare Book Trade

The rare and second-hand book trade is inherently sustainable, extending the life of books and reducing the demand for new production. Our sustainability approach builds on this foundation.

3. Packaging & Materials

We aim to use packaging that is recyclable or biodegradable wherever possible. Plastic bubble wrap has been phased out for routine packing and replaced with paper-based protective systems. Limited exceptions may apply where preservation requires it.

4. Shipping & Logistics

We seek to minimise environmental impact by encouraging consolidated shipments, avoiding unnecessary repacking, and supporting local collection where appropriate.

5. Energy & Office Practices

We reduce unnecessary printing, use digital communications where possible, and aim to operate our premises efficiently.

6. Responsible Sourcing & Disposal

We prioritise reuse of incoming packaging and recycle materials wherever possible, recognising the cultural and material value of books.

7. Goals, Metrics & Targets

Our current goals include maintaining plastic-free packaging for at least 90% of outbound shipments, reducing printed materials by 50%, improving shipping efficiency, and conducting annual sustainability reviews.

8. Clients & Collaboration

We welcome engagement from clients and partners on sustainability matters and are open to collaboration with like-minded organisations.

9. Review & Responsibility

This policy is reviewed periodically. Responsibility for its implementation rests with the Directors of Quire Auctions Ltd.

This policy was last reviewed and updated on 15th January 2026