What are you doing to tackle the Climate Emergency?

• Share World Bee Day 2022 on Facebook Share World Bee Day 2022 on Twitter Share World Bee Day 2022 on Linkedin Email World Bee Day 2022 link

  World Bee Day 2022

  by Miss Roberts, almost 4 years ago
  

  We had a fantastic World Bee Day in year 3 at Victoria Road Primary School. Everyone was fascinated with the life of bees from their wiggle dances to their pollen laden legs. We made wildflower bee bombs to take home and surveyed our school grounds to see if we can make our school a more bee friendly place. Such a good day.

  We had a fantastic World Bee Day in year 3 at Victoria Road Primary School. Everyone was fascinated with the life of bees from their wiggle dances to their pollen laden legs. We made wildflower bee bombs to take home and surveyed our school grounds to see if we can make our school a more bee friendly place. Such a good day.
• Share Ditch the car – help the climate and your health. I did. on Facebook Share Ditch the car – help the climate and your health. I did. on Twitter Share Ditch the car – help the climate and your health. I did. on Linkedin Email Ditch the car – help the climate and your health. I did. link

  Ditch the car – help the climate and your health. I did.

  by Patrick Eakin, almost 4 years ago

  And I’m a GP. Having not cycled since primary school, it was remarkable how little time it took me to get back on a bicycle and then before I knew it, I had sold my car and the bicycle was my primary mode of transport.

  I always had excuses for not doing it before: How would I visit patients? What about the traffic? Rain?

  But, with a second-hand bike picked up by my wife, I cycled into town a few times. First, just to catch the train, then to do some shopping. It was so simple; work was the next... Continue reading

  And I’m a GP. Having not cycled since primary school, it was remarkable how little time it took me to get back on a bicycle and then before I knew it, I had sold my car and the bicycle was my primary mode of transport.

  I always had excuses for not doing it before: How would I visit patients? What about the traffic? Rain?

  But, with a second-hand bike picked up by my wife, I cycled into town a few times. First, just to catch the train, then to do some shopping. It was so simple; work was the next logical step.

  Very quickly I realised all my preconceptions about cycling were wrong, and the barriers to changing in my mind just needed to be challenged.

  What was and still is most enjoyable, is the gentle ride home in the evening, exercise done, no need to worry about traffic jams.

  Why not try it yourself?

  
  

  Dr Patrick Eakin

  GP

  
  

  A longer version of this article (with photos!) can be found at: News latest - Cycle North Cheshire
• Share The importance of bees on Facebook Share The importance of bees on Twitter Share The importance of bees on Linkedin Email The importance of bees link

  The importance of bees

  almost 4 years ago
  

  World Bee Day, Friday 20 May 2022, is a great opportunity to consider what we can all do to make our outdoor spaces better for bees.

  Gardeners have noticed that there is less of a buzz in the air because bee numbers have been falling dramatically in recent years. Experts are worried that this trend might continue and, if it does, it could have serious implications.

  Bees visit flowers to collect nectar and pollen, which they use as food for themselves and the larvae in their hives or nests. By moving from flower to flower, bees are important pollinators of... Continue reading

  World Bee Day, Friday 20 May 2022, is a great opportunity to consider what we can all do to make our outdoor spaces better for bees.

  Gardeners have noticed that there is less of a buzz in the air because bee numbers have been falling dramatically in recent years. Experts are worried that this trend might continue and, if it does, it could have serious implications.

  Bees visit flowers to collect nectar and pollen, which they use as food for themselves and the larvae in their hives or nests. By moving from flower to flower, bees are important pollinators of many garden and wild flowers.

  Insect pollination is also essential for the cropping of most fruits and some vegetables. Without the bees, there would be significantly less food for people to eat. Honeybees don't just make honey - they pollinate more than 90 of the tastiest flowering crops we have including apples, nuts, avocados, asparagus, broccoli, celery, squash and cucumbers. They also pollinate sweet and tart crops such as citrus fruit, blueberries, cranberries and strawberries.

  Bees and other pollinators, such as butterflies, bats and hummingbirds, are increasingly under threat from human activities. Pollination is a fundamental process for the survival of our ecosystems. Nearly 90% of the world’s wild flowering plant species depend, entirely, or at least in part, on animal pollination, along with more than 75% of the world’s food crops and 35% of global agricultural land. Not only do pollinators contribute directly to food security, but they are key to conserving biodiversity.
  
  The Council has started delivering it’s five-year Wildflower and Grassland Strategy action plan, with 45 mini native wildflower meadows being created across the borough this summer. You can read more about the Council’s plans on the wildflowers webpage, including details about the ‘Cheshire’ seed mix being that has been created for this project. Residents are also able to purchase the wildflower mix to use in their own gardens.

  You can help

  Go organic: Putting insecticide on your plants might get rid of the insects that eat them, but it also poisons bees. Try using a natural insecticide like putting ladybirds on your plants that will eat the bugs but will not harm the bees. If you want to keep using chemical pesticides, use them sparingly and don’t spray open flowers. Spray in the evening when bees are less active.

  Use friendly plants: Bees like to have lots of different, nectar-rich flowers planted close together. They also like varying heights, nice smells and sunny sheltered spots. Bees can only see certain colours and, because of this, are attracted to some flowers more than others. Ideally you should have something in flower every month to give bees something to feed on throughout the whole year.

  The best plants for bees are lavender, chives, thyme, mint, rosemary, borage, cornflower verbena, campanula, hellebore, ice plant, greater knapweed, viper's bugloss, sea hollies, poppy, buddleia, hebe, comfrey, Japanese quince, foxglove, aquilegia, winter-flowering honeysuckle and heathers.

  Quench their thirst: Bees need to drink. They are too small to be able to drink from ponds or bird tables so putting a little water on a small plate is the best option.

  Become a beekeeper: Visit: www.bbka.org.uk to find out how.

  Make a bee home: Some species of solitary bees like to nest in small tunnels or holes in the ground or sandy banks. Making a home for these single bees gives them an ideal place in which to lay their eggs. The Countryfile website has a useful guide to help you create one.

  
  
• Share Why 2,000 homes in Ellesmere Port could help solve our climate crisis on Facebook Share Why 2,000 homes in Ellesmere Port could help solve our climate crisis on Twitter Share Why 2,000 homes in Ellesmere Port could help solve our climate crisis on Linkedin Email Why 2,000 homes in Ellesmere Port could help solve our climate crisis link

  Why 2,000 homes in Ellesmere Port could help solve our climate crisis

  almost 4 years ago
  

  An area of up to 2,000 properties in Ellesmere Port has made the shortlist (of two) to be the UK’s first ‘hydrogen village’.

  Ellesmere Port could be home to the UK’s first ‘hydrogen village’ in a project that’s critical to helping solve the global climate crisis.

  Up to 2,000 properties in the Whitby area of the town would stop using natural gas for heating and cooking, and instead use hydrogen.

  The proposal, put forward by gas distribution network Cadent and British Gas, and supported by Cheshire West and Chester Council, has been confirmed by Ofgem in a shortlist of two... Continue reading

  An area of up to 2,000 properties in Ellesmere Port has made the shortlist (of two) to be the UK’s first ‘hydrogen village’.

  Ellesmere Port could be home to the UK’s first ‘hydrogen village’ in a project that’s critical to helping solve the global climate crisis.

  Up to 2,000 properties in the Whitby area of the town would stop using natural gas for heating and cooking, and instead use hydrogen.

  The proposal, put forward by gas distribution network Cadent and British Gas, and supported by Cheshire West and Chester Council, has been confirmed by Ofgem in a shortlist of two locations hoping to be the first to use hydrogen on this scale.

  The chosen location will start being supplied with hydrogen in 2025.

  Hydrogen can be supplied through the existing network of gas pipes. Unlike natural gas, it produces no carbon emissions when burned in a boiler to heat properties.

  If Ellesmere Port is picked as the ‘hydrogen village’, every property in the selected area within Whitby will get free boiler upgrades, to new hydrogen-ready versions. This means residents continue using boilers they are familiar with today.

  There is a guarantee too that, for the duration of the two-year programme, residents will pay the same to use hydrogen as they would pay for using natural gas.

  A lower carbon future

  Marc Clarke, Head of Hydrogen Consumer, Cadent, said:

  “This is a really exciting project that puts Whitby in Ellesmere Port right at the heart of a lower carbon future for the country as a whole.

  “Previous projects have clearly shown hydrogen’s potential, and now, with this scheme, we are showing how hydrogen can be used at scale to cut emissions from heating and cooking.

  “We already know that Whitby has an unparalleled geographic location for hydrogen. The North West is already on track to produce the low carbon hydrogen required for the scheme from Ellesmere Port’s HyNet project, and we have been undertaking work over the past few years to ensure the region’s pipes are ready to take hydrogen.”

  Cadent and British Gas have written to all residents whose properties would be supplied with hydrogen, to explain the programme in more detail. Every property in the area will be surveyed and residents will be consulted throughout.

  Emerging hydrogen economy

  Councillor Louise Gittins, Leader of Cheshire West and Chester Council, said:

  “We’re already in a unique position to have the HyNet development on our doorstep, providing an opportunity to use hydrogen as a source of energy, not only to power industry in our area but also our homes. It will also provide significant job opportunities in a new, expanding sector, for people both locally and further afield.

  “With the hope that the full 2025 village programme will be awarded to our region, the Council and Cadent will be working closely to create a strong community programme, with residents in Whitby, Ellesmere Port and throughout the borough. Residents will be engaged and empowered to co-produce this project throughout the process.”

  Currently, the average UK household emits over 2.7 tonnes of carbon dioxide each year – mainly by burning natural (fossil) gas for heating, hot water, and cooking. Replacing natural gas with hydrogen is one option for tackling this challenge.

  The recognition of Ellesmere Port as the potential location for the hydrogen village is the latest in a series of developments that are defining the North West as a leader in the emerging hydrogen economy.

  One of the best-known projects is HyNet at Ellesmere Port’s Stanlow Manufacturing Complex. This will produce, store, and distribute low-carbon hydrogen from the mid 2020s, as well as capturing and storing carbon dioxide emissions from industry in the region.

  Visit the Hydrogen Village website for more information.
• Share Learn to get your cycle roadworthy. on Facebook Share Learn to get your cycle roadworthy. on Twitter Share Learn to get your cycle roadworthy. on Linkedin Email Learn to get your cycle roadworthy. link

  Learn to get your cycle roadworthy.

  by Ian S, almost 4 years ago
  

  The Chester Cycling Campaign, with the support of Bren Bikes, is offering introductory cycle maintenance courses on the first Wednesday of each month during the summer. We aim to show you how to fix a puncture, to check your bike for roadworthiness and adjust it for comfort. The courses are free and can be booked at chestercyclecity.org
  The Cycling Campaign offers support to all to (re)discover the value of cycling/wheeling as a component of the daily transport mix Whilst admittedly not practical for all, there are plenty of people who COULD but DON’T We aim to help those people to... Continue reading

  The Chester Cycling Campaign, with the support of Bren Bikes, is offering introductory cycle maintenance courses on the first Wednesday of each month during the summer. We aim to show you how to fix a puncture, to check your bike for roadworthiness and adjust it for comfort. The courses are free and can be booked at chestercyclecity.org
  The Cycling Campaign offers support to all to (re)discover the value of cycling/wheeling as a component of the daily transport mix Whilst admittedly not practical for all, there are plenty of people who COULD but DON’T We aim to help those people to get active.

  
  

  
  
• Share Eco Communities May What's On and save the date Festivals on Facebook Share Eco Communities May What's On and save the date Festivals on Twitter Share Eco Communities May What's On and save the date Festivals on Linkedin Email Eco Communities May What's On and save the date Festivals link

  Eco Communities May What's On and save the date Festivals

  by Eco Communities, almost 4 years ago
  

  We have lots on each month, but they are not much fun unless you join us.

  We have at least two litter picks, this month we are back on the Million Mile Clean from the Countess of Chester Park. We will be completing a Citizen Science project on producers contribution to littering.

  Then later on the month back in Saltney, the litter in this area is such a huge problem for nature and those living in the area. We have so far cleared 77 bags of litter weighing a staggering 321kg, we have one final push along this... Continue reading

  We have lots on each month, but they are not much fun unless you join us.

  We have at least two litter picks, this month we are back on the Million Mile Clean from the Countess of Chester Park. We will be completing a Citizen Science project on producers contribution to littering.

  Then later on the month back in Saltney, the litter in this area is such a huge problem for nature and those living in the area. We have so far cleared 77 bags of litter weighing a staggering 321kg, we have one final push along this stretch of the Dee we think is needed. Please come along to help. Lets see if we can clean even more in May, our third River Sunday.

  Then we have two of our free Webinars which are on anything sustainable via Tellus TV, we are going for a fortnightly rather than weekly programming. We have Welsh Dee Trust and CHASE with is in May. So register to hear more on the great work they are involved in.

  Then we are supporting or organising tree festivals, Green Expo, Festival for the Future and Great Big Green Week is back... keep up to date on our events by registering for our Eco Communications - newsletter...

  CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO

  Register for our emails - CLICK HERE

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  
• Share Eco Communities are on a Million Mile Mission to keep Chester clean - 7th May - 3pm on Facebook Share Eco Communities are on a Million Mile Mission to keep Chester clean - 7th May - 3pm on Twitter Share Eco Communities are on a Million Mile Mission to keep Chester clean - 7th May - 3pm on Linkedin Email Eco Communities are on a Million Mile Mission to keep Chester clean - 7th May - 3pm link

  Eco Communities are on a Million Mile Mission to keep Chester clean - 7th May - 3pm

  by Eco Communities, almost 4 years ago
  

  We are still on our Million Mile Mission to keep Chester Clean. Help with our Citizen science project to report back on those brands causing the most litter, key to ensuring businesses change.

  7th May - 3pm
  Countess of Chester Park, Friendly Bench.

  BOOK HERE

  We are still on our Million Mile Mission to keep Chester Clean. Help with our Citizen science project to report back on those brands causing the most litter, key to ensuring businesses change.

  7th May - 3pm
  Countess of Chester Park, Friendly Bench.

  BOOK HERE
• Share How Volunteering can Inspire you to make a Difference on Facebook Share How Volunteering can Inspire you to make a Difference on Twitter Share How Volunteering can Inspire you to make a Difference on Linkedin Email How Volunteering can Inspire you to make a Difference link

  How Volunteering can Inspire you to make a Difference

  by Eco Communities, almost 4 years ago
  

  
  Volunteering means giving your time and abilities to aid others (usually a non-profit organisation like Eco Communities) without reward. Giving to others can also help protect your mental and physical health. It can reduce stress, combat depression, keep you mentally stimulated, and provide a sense of purpose. While it’s true that the more you volunteer, the more benefits you’ll experience, volunteering doesn’t have to involve a long-term commitment or take a huge amount of time out of your busy day. Giving in even simple ways can help those in need and improve your health and happiness. Want to do something... Continue reading

  
  Volunteering means giving your time and abilities to aid others (usually a non-profit organisation like Eco Communities) without reward. Giving to others can also help protect your mental and physical health. It can reduce stress, combat depression, keep you mentally stimulated, and provide a sense of purpose. While it’s true that the more you volunteer, the more benefits you’ll experience, volunteering doesn’t have to involve a long-term commitment or take a huge amount of time out of your busy day. Giving in even simple ways can help those in need and improve your health and happiness. Want to do something about climate change and the climate emergency why not volunteer with us at Eco Communities - read full blog - LINK
• Share Fighting food waste on Facebook Share Fighting food waste on Twitter Share Fighting food waste on Linkedin Email Fighting food waste link

  Fighting food waste

  almost 4 years ago
  

  Wednesday 27 April is ‘Stop food waste’ day. A time to be grateful for the good food we eat and reflect on how much we buy and waste.

  WRAP, a global sustainability charity, communicates the importance of reducing food waste on their Love Food Hate Waste website. They highlight how your food is at its best when it’s on your plate, ready to be enjoyed. It’s perfect in your fridge, ready to be used, or stored in the freezer for another time. It’s at its worst when it’s in your bin.

  Saving food can also help us save money... Continue reading

  Wednesday 27 April is ‘Stop food waste’ day. A time to be grateful for the good food we eat and reflect on how much we buy and waste.

  WRAP, a global sustainability charity, communicates the importance of reducing food waste on their Love Food Hate Waste website. They highlight how your food is at its best when it’s on your plate, ready to be enjoyed. It’s perfect in your fridge, ready to be used, or stored in the freezer for another time. It’s at its worst when it’s in your bin.

  Saving food can also help us save money, and it is good for the planet too, helping to slow down global warming.

  WRAP states that, if global food waste were a country, it would be third largest emitter of greenhouse gases after China and the US.
  
  In the UK alone, households waste around 6.5 million tonnes of food every year. What’s worse is that 4.5 million of that is still edible (enough to fill 90 Royal Albert Halls). This includes food left on plates and bread crusts, waste that can be avoided if we think and act a little smarter.

  By making some small changes and using up every edible bit of your food, you will be playing your part in looking after the environment.
  
  

  How to cut down on food waste

  Plan and be super organised

  • Check the contents of your fridge, freezer, and store cupboard once a week. This will help you with your next shopping list.
  • Plan your meals each week. Don’t forget to use what you have in your cupboards.
  • Make a list before you go shopping. Have a pad and pen handy or use your smartphone.
  • Look for the longest use-by date.
  • Try to buy foods that can be frozen.
  • Save money by buying what you need, not what you want.
  • Avoid going to the supermarket when you feel hungry. You end up buying more than you need.
  • Buy loose when you can. Packaging only adds to the cost of your shopping.
  • Avoid ‘Buy one, get one free’ offers if you are not likely to eat it all.

  Embrace your inner chef

  • Cook the right amount and reduce waste. Need help, try using a portion planner Portion Planner | Love Food Hate Waste
  • Create your own recipes with what you have in your cupboards and fridge.
  • If in doubt, make soup. Vegetables, chicken and even cheese taste great in soup.
  • For inspiration check out Recipes | Love Food Hate Waste

  Chill out with your fridge and freezer

  • If you have a busy time ahead, cook extra portions and freeze for a later date.
  • Freeze leftovers for another time.
  • Bread is one of the most likely foods to be wasted. This can be avoided by putting it in the freezer and using it for toast.
  • Don’t forget to label tubs and bags bound for the freezer with a date so that you can use them in order.
  • Make sure your fridge temperature is below 5 degrees Celcius
  • Too much milk? This can be frozen. Pour a little out for a hot drink before you freeze. This allows room in the bottle for the milk to freeze without spilling.
  • Not sure how to store something. Check out this handy A to Z Food Storage A to Z | Love Food Hate Waste

  
  

  
  
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  Save the earth one litter pick at a time

  by Eco Communities, about 4 years ago
  

  Eco Communities ask you to act as part of ‘A Billion Acts of Green’ this Earth Day and become a volunteer

  Today April 22nd it’s Earth Day, Earth Day started in 1970 and now has more than a billion people taking part to protect the planet from things like pollution and deforestation. By taking part in activities like picking up litter and planting trees, we’re making our world a happier, healthier place to live. Read full story- CLICK

  
  

  Eco Communities ask you to act as part of ‘A Billion Acts of Green’ this Earth Day and become a volunteer

  Today April 22nd it’s Earth Day, Earth Day started in 1970 and now has more than a billion people taking part to protect the planet from things like pollution and deforestation. By taking part in activities like picking up litter and planting trees, we’re making our world a happier, healthier place to live. Read full story- CLICK