Climate Emergency

The Climate Emergency facing our world is a very real issue, but there is plenty we can do to take action to help protect our planet.

Cheshire West and Chester Council declared a Climate Emergency in the borough in 2019 and put forward its Climate Emergency Response plan, which aims to help the borough become carbon neutral by 2045.

This is a space to share ideas, stories and tips about what you are doing locally to reduce your carbon emissions and impact on the environment. Now's the time to react and play your part to make our borough carbon neutral.

The Climate Emergency facing our world is a very real issue, but there is plenty we can do to take action to help protect our planet.

What are you doing to tackle the Climate Emergency?

Residents, community groups, schools and businesses across the borough are busy playing their part to protect our local environment and reduce their impact on the planet by reducing their carbon emissions.

Lots of people taking action together can make a big impact and we want to hear all about the things you are doing. It could be a short tip, a blog or vlog on a certain topic, a pledge to say what you hope to achieve or about an event you’ve organised.

By sharing your story, you could inspire others across the borough to take action today and help us achieve our ambition of being a carbon neutral borough.

Please add your story here

You can add text, photos and videos to your story
Please ensure you have permission to share anything featured here
Please remember this is a public space, so please do not share any personal information about yourself or others in your comment.

We may occasionally contact people who have uploaded an inspiring story to ask if we could share it wider, such as on the Council's social media channels or our Climate Emergency enewsletter. We will always ask permission before we do this and we will only share stories with your approval.

Thank you for sharing your story with us.

Share Watch our free webinars about the climate and nature emergencies on Facebook Share Watch our free webinars about the climate and nature emergencies on Twitter Share Watch our free webinars about the climate and nature emergencies on Linkedin Email Watch our free webinars about the climate and nature emergencies link

Watch our free webinars about the climate and nature emergencies

about 4 years ago

Earlier this year the Council hosted a series of free webinars, working with local partners to provide advice on the actions we can all take to address the climate and nature emergencies.

If you missed attending the sessions live you can view the webinars on the recordings below.

Working with nature to tackle the climate emergency

The Mersey Forest discuss the important role land plays, from producing food, and sequestering carbon, to keeping us cooler, and managing water.

Watch a recording of the webinar

For peats sake: A webinar by the Cheshire Wildlife Trust discussing alternatives to using peat compost
... Continue reading
Earlier this year the Council hosted a series of free webinars, working with local partners to provide advice on the actions we can all take to address the climate and nature emergencies.

If you missed attending the sessions live you can view the webinars on the recordings below.

Working with nature to tackle the climate emergency

The Mersey Forest discuss the important role land plays, from producing food, and sequestering carbon, to keeping us cooler, and managing water.

Watch a recording of the webinar

For peats sake: A webinar by the Cheshire Wildlife Trust discussing alternatives to using peat compost
Cheshire Wildlife Trust hosted a webinar in March 2022 showing ways you can care for both your garden and the planet by using alternatives to peat compost in your green space.

Watch a recording of the webinar

View the 'For peats sake' presentation
Free for all: A webinar by the Cheshire Wildlife Trust discussing upcycling and recycling to reduce consumption in your garden
Experts from Cheshire Wildlife Trust share tips and advice about upcycling and recycling items from around your home to reduce consumption in your garden in this webinar.
Watch a recording of the webinar
View the 'Free for all' presentation
View the Cheshire Wildlife Trust's upcycling toolkit
Climate proof your garden: A webinar by the Cheshire Wildlife Trust focusing on adapting your garden to extreme weather
As extreme weather becomes more common in our country, there are ways that we can modify our gardens to help us adapt to the impact of climate change. Cheshire Wildlife Trust provide tips and advice in this webinar about saving water, keeping cool and helping reduce the impacts of flooding.

Watch a recording of the webinar
View the 'Climate proof your garden' presentation

Some residents asked questions at the webinars which could not all be answered in the live sessions. Answers to the questions can be viewed online.
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Chester Wetland Centre Public Consultation

about 4 years ago

Taking place at The Friendly Bench®
Saturday 19th March 11:00am – 2:30pm
The Friends of the Countess of Chester Country Park are hosting a public consultation about the Chester Wetland Centre Project. Come and find out about, and give us your views, on our exciting new plans to create a unique wetland habitat in the Country Park.

There will also be two FREE community events at the same time as part of our involvement with the National Nature Recovery Strategy. Join the TCV Park Ranger planting trees in the morning and sowing wildflower sees on our new grassland area in... Continue reading
Taking place at The Friendly Bench®
Saturday 19th March 11:00am – 2:30pm
The Friends of the Countess of Chester Country Park are hosting a public consultation about the Chester Wetland Centre Project. Come and find out about, and give us your views, on our exciting new plans to create a unique wetland habitat in the Country Park.

There will also be two FREE community events at the same time as part of our involvement with the National Nature Recovery Strategy. Join the TCV Park Ranger planting trees in the morning and sowing wildflower sees on our new grassland area in the afternoon.
11:00 – 12:30 | Community Tree Planting
13:00 – 14:30 | Community Wildflower Seed Sowing

Contact Neil on 07740 899716 or n.mcmahon@tcv.org.uk to find out more.
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Youngsters learn about sustainability at Blacon Adventure Playground

by Avenue Services, about 4 years ago

CHILDREN in Blacon are discovering more about the environment thanks to a new hands-on learning experience at Blacon Adventure Playground.
Youngsters visiting the playground can have a go at building their own eco-friendly houses, while learning about some of the key factors that make homes more energy-efficient, such as heat pumps and better glazing and insulation.
The learning materials are part of a wider project to improve sustainability at the playground, with the long-term goal of it becoming carbon free. This has seen a host of upgrades installed, including solar panels, an air source heat pump and energy efficient lighting.
... Continue reading
CHILDREN in Blacon are discovering more about the environment thanks to a new hands-on learning experience at Blacon Adventure Playground.
Youngsters visiting the playground can have a go at building their own eco-friendly houses, while learning about some of the key factors that make homes more energy-efficient, such as heat pumps and better glazing and insulation.
The learning materials are part of a wider project to improve sustainability at the playground, with the long-term goal of it becoming carbon free. This has seen a host of upgrades installed, including solar panels, an air source heat pump and energy efficient lighting.
The improvements have been funded by national housing provider Sanctuary as part of its own commitment to achieving net zero carbon emissions, and were designed by sustainability consultancy Anthesis and installed by Hewer FM.
Paul Knight, head of Avenue Services, which manages Blacon Adventure Playground, said: “The work we’ve carried out has already reduced our CO2 emissions by around five tonnes a year, which is a fantastic result.
“But while our own numbers are important, a big part of this project is about involving the local community and engaging with them about the impact of climate change and how we can all make a difference.
“It’s been great to see so many children enjoying our new materials and showing a real enthusiasm for learning about sustainability.”
The educational materials will be based at the adventure playground, but Avenue Services is also hoping to take them into local schools and community venues later in the year.
Kian Spencer, age nine, said: “I really enjoyed learning about the environment and all the different ways that we can make the places where we live more sustainable. I’ll definitely be doing my bit to help the planet wherever I can.”
Avenue Services, which is a not-for-profit organisation, is a joint venture between Sanctuary and Cheshire West and Chester Council.
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Environmental works at Blacon Adventure Playground

by Avenue Services, about 4 years ago

We’re committed to protecting the environment and playing our part to combat climate change.
As part of that commitment, we’ve carried out significant work at Blacon Adventure Playground to make the site more environmentally friendly.
As well as fitting solar panels, we’ve also installed air source heat pumps and smart LED lighting systems.
The improvements were funded by national housing provider Sanctuary as part of its own commitment to achieving net zero carbon emissions, and were designed by sustainability consultancy Anthesis and installed by Hewer FM.
As a result of the work, we’ve already reduced our CO2 emissions... Continue reading
We’re committed to protecting the environment and playing our part to combat climate change.
As part of that commitment, we’ve carried out significant work at Blacon Adventure Playground to make the site more environmentally friendly.
As well as fitting solar panels, we’ve also installed air source heat pumps and smart LED lighting systems.
The improvements were funded by national housing provider Sanctuary as part of its own commitment to achieving net zero carbon emissions, and were designed by sustainability consultancy Anthesis and installed by Hewer FM.
As a result of the work, we’ve already reduced our CO2 emissions by around five tonnes each year, and our long-term goal is for the playground to become a net carbon zero site.
Watch our video to find out more about the work and why we’re committed to tackling climate change.
Share River Sunday Litter Pick - by Welsh Dee Trust and Eco Communities on Facebook Share River Sunday Litter Pick - by Welsh Dee Trust and Eco Communities on Twitter Share River Sunday Litter Pick - by Welsh Dee Trust and Eco Communities on Linkedin Email River Sunday Litter Pick - by Welsh Dee Trust and Eco Communities link

River Sunday Litter Pick - by Welsh Dee Trust and Eco Communities

by Eco Communities, about 4 years ago

Welsh Dee Trust and Eco Communities are working together to organise regular clean ups and litter picks to help keep the river clear of plastic and other rubbish. Please volunteer if you would like to help clean up the bank-side, numbers are limited to 20 for this event.
REGISTRATION VIA EVENTBRITE IS REQUIRED.
MORE INFO and BOOK HERE

Welsh Dee Trust and Eco Communities are working together to organise regular clean ups and litter picks to help keep the river clear of plastic and other rubbish. Please volunteer if you would like to help clean up the bank-side, numbers are limited to 20 for this event.
REGISTRATION VIA EVENTBRITE IS REQUIRED.
MORE INFO and BOOK HERE
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Tellus Magazine - by Eco Communities Community Interest Company

by Eco Communities, about 4 years ago

Supported by some friendly Councillors we are able to create a sustainably printed copy of this magazine but here is our E-version.
Written for businesses, individuals and families wanting to do more about sustainability.
LINK TO MAGAZINE
Supported by some friendly Councillors we are able to create a sustainably printed copy of this magazine but here is our E-version.
Written for businesses, individuals and families wanting to do more about sustainability.
LINK TO MAGAZINE
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Free climate and nature emergencies webinars

about 4 years ago

Throughout March and April the Council is hosting a series of free webinars, working with local partners to provide advice on the actions we can all take to address the climate and nature emergencies.
Monday 21 March, 12.30pm - Working with nature to tackle the climate emergency
All land has an important role to play as part of wider action to tackle the climate and nature emergencies. This includes woodlands, peatlands, saltmarshes, rivers, and agricultural land, as well as parks, allotments, school or business grounds, street trees, road verges, pockets of derelict or neglected spaces, green roofs and walls, and... Continue reading

Throughout March and April the Council is hosting a series of free webinars, working with local partners to provide advice on the actions we can all take to address the climate and nature emergencies.
Monday 21 March, 12.30pm - Working with nature to tackle the climate emergency
All land has an important role to play as part of wider action to tackle the climate and nature emergencies. This includes woodlands, peatlands, saltmarshes, rivers, and agricultural land, as well as parks, allotments, school or business grounds, street trees, road verges, pockets of derelict or neglected spaces, green roofs and walls, and domestic gardens. The Mersey Forest team will be discussing the different roles this “green infrastructure” can play, from producing food, and sequestering carbon, to keeping us cooler, and managing water. There will also be a section exploring how residents in west Cheshire can help and some resources available for this.

Friday 25March, 12.30pm – For peats sake: Alternatives to using peat compost
Peat has been a major ingredient of the compost used in gardening for many years. This peat is taken from rare wildlife habitats, damaging some of the last remaining peatlands in both the UK and overseas in places like Eastern Europe. This process also releases carbon into the atmosphere, accelerating climate change. Cheshire Wildlife Trust will be sharing ways you can care for both your garden and the planet by using alternatives to peat compost in your green space.

Wednesday 30March, 12.30pm – Free for all: Upcycling and recycling to reduce consumption in your garden
Experts from Cheshire Wildlife Trust will be sharing tips and advice about upcycling and recycling items from around your home to reduce consumption in your garden in this lunchtime webinar. Find out how to make a planter out of just about anything as well as getting some creative tips on how to garden on a budget.

Friday 1April, 12.30pm – Climate proof your garden: Adapting your garden to extreme weather
As extreme weather becomes more common in our country, there are ways that we can modify our gardens to help us adapt to the impact of climate change. Cheshire Wildlife Trust will be providing tips and advice in this webinar about saving water, keeping cool and helping reduce the impacts of flooding.

How to register

To attend any of these short lunchtime webinars, please register online. The instructions for joining the online sessions will be emailed to you a few days before the webinar takes place.

There is also an opportunity to ask the experts a question related to the webinar topic. Please complete the question section on the online registration form. If there is time, some of the questions will be answered as part of the webinar or responses will be emailed out after the event.
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Fairtrade Fortnight 21 February - 6 March 2022

by Sacha@CWaC, about 4 years ago
This year, the borough will once again be celebrating the Fairtrade Foundation’s annual UK event, Fairtrade Fortnight, which runs from 21 February – 6 March 2022.
The Fairtrade Foundation campaigns for social, economic, and environmental justice, and supports many producers worldwide.

Fairtrade groups across the borough have organised the following events:
- 25 February – Neston Fairtrade Town Steering Group is hosting a Fairtrade stall at Neston Market
- 26 February – Fairtrade coffee morning at Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church, Whitby Road, Ellesmere Port, 10am – 12noon
- 28 February – Cheshire West Fairtrade steering group is hosting a... Continue reading
This year, the borough will once again be celebrating the Fairtrade Foundation’s annual UK event, Fairtrade Fortnight, which runs from 21 February – 6 March 2022.
The Fairtrade Foundation campaigns for social, economic, and environmental justice, and supports many producers worldwide.

Fairtrade groups across the borough have organised the following events:
- 25 February – Neston Fairtrade Town Steering Group is hosting a Fairtrade stall at Neston Market
- 26 February – Fairtrade coffee morning at Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church, Whitby Road, Ellesmere Port, 10am – 12noon
- 28 February – Cheshire West Fairtrade steering group is hosting a Fairtrade breakfast at Chester Cathedral
- 1 March – Fairtrade talk focusing on chocolate at the Tuesday Club, The Centurion Pub, Vicars Cross
- 4 March – Members of the Cheshire West Fairtrade steering group join the Lord Mayor for afternoon tea
- 4 March - Traidcraft Big Brew at Neston Methodist Church and Community Centre Welcome Café, 9.30am - 12.30pm
- Oldfield Primary School, Vicars cross and Kingsley St John’s CE Primary School, Frodsham will host a Fairtrade stall
- Chester Fairtrade shop, based in Wesley Church Centre, Chester, will be offering 10 per cent off everything during Fairtrade Fortnight
An online Fairtrade festival has also been organised by the Fairtrade Foundation. The festival will feature panel discussions with farmers from communities around the world, and interactive workshops on sustainable living. View the full festival line up online: https://www.fairtrade.org.uk/choose-the-world-you-want/.
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Consultations launched on HyNet North West hydrogen and carbon dioxide pipelines

about 4 years ago

Hynet North West has launched two consultations for their hydrogen and carbon dioxide pipelines.
Combined, these pipelines will help decarbonise heavy industry in North West England and North Wales. This will protect and create thousands of jobs, improve air quality, and unlock a net zero future for the two regions.
Because of the length of the two pipelines, we need to apply for a special kind of planning permission, known as a Development Consent Order, to develop them. Getting feedback from local people and communities is crucial. This will make sure the project is built with them in mind.

You... Continue reading
Hynet North West has launched two consultations for their hydrogen and carbon dioxide pipelines.
Combined, these pipelines will help decarbonise heavy industry in North West England and North Wales. This will protect and create thousands of jobs, improve air quality, and unlock a net zero future for the two regions.
Because of the length of the two pipelines, we need to apply for a special kind of planning permission, known as a Development Consent Order, to develop them. Getting feedback from local people and communities is crucial. This will make sure the project is built with them in mind.

You have the power to make a difference. Your feedback can help us identify new ways to help your community as we develop this project. Visit the consultation websites for more information
1. Hydrogen pipeline consultation
This consultation launched on the 26th January, you can now learn more about HyNet's Hydrogen Pipeline give your feedback at the consultation by visiting - HyNetHydrogenPipeline.co.uk
Being developed by Cadent, the underground pipeline will deliver low carbon hydrogen to industry and power generators in the region. It will take hydrogen to gas blending points near Warrington, Manchester and Northwich for introduction into the existing gas network. In addition, it will connect with storage facilities which will store hydrogen to provide a backup helping to balance supply and demand.
This is the first of two consultations that will take place on the proposed pipeline. This non-statutory consultation is taking place during the early stage of our work to help us shape our proposals. We are also carrying out detailed desktop and technical assessments to understand more about the area we're working in. Our next consultation will happen towards the end of the year.
You can find out more about the project on our website at www.hynethydrogenpipeline.co.uk where you can tell us your thoughts and contact the team working on the hydrogen pipeline to ask any questions.
Take part in the consultation to help realise these benefits – HyNetHydrogenPipeline.co.uk
2. Consultation for the carbon dioxide pipeline
Our public consultation for the carbon dioxide pipeline launched on Wednesday 9th February.
Your feedback is essential - have your say at HyNetHub.co.uk
What are we consulting on?
Since our first consultation in Summer 2021, we've refined our plans using your feedback and a series of surveys and research. This has enabled us to select a preferred route for the carbon dioxide pipeline. We are now seeking additional feedback from local communities on our plans. This will help us ensure the project can deliver a range of benefits to local people, businesses and communities for decades to come.
Carbon dioxide pipeline consultation
The pipeline, being developed by Eni, will benefit North West England and North Wales by capturing and storing harmful carbon dioxide emissions from local industry. Reducing the amount of carbon dioxide entering our air by millions of tonnes each year. It will safely store this deep below the seabed in depleted gas fields that have held fossil fuels for millions of years.
By capturing emissions, we will help to project protect and create local jobs, as well as provide training and education opportunities. This project will also attract significant investment as factories and businesses look to move to areas that can offer cost-effective ways to decarbonise.
As part of our plans, we will also repurpose existing infrastructure in the area, which is both cost-effective and will help us begin to decarbonise more quickly.
Your feedback is key to helping us realise these benefits. Find out more and have your say at HyNetHub.co.uk
Webinars and events
A range of webinars, in-person events and roadshows will be held throughout the upcoming consultations. Details on these events for each of the pipeline consultations can be found on each of the consultation websites.
Visit the Hydrogen Pipeline consultation website.
Visit the Carbon Dioxide consultation website.
If you have any questions, thoughts or would like to find out more. Please email: info@hynet.co.uk
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Cheshire Prize for Literature

by Sacha@CWaC, about 4 years ago

The University of Chester is accepting competition entries for the Cheshire Prize for Literature 2021. The theme is sustainability, and it's open to all genres - short stories, children's literature, scriptwriting, and poetry. And, for the first time ever, we are encouraging children to enter as well. We are delighted to be in partnership with Storyhouse again. The closing date has been extended until 9th March, 2022. Click here for competition details.
The University of Chester is accepting competition entries for the Cheshire Prize for Literature 2021. The theme is sustainability, and it's open to all genres - short stories, children's literature, scriptwriting, and poetry. And, for the first time ever, we are encouraging children to enter as well. We are delighted to be in partnership with Storyhouse again. The closing date has been extended until 9th March, 2022. Click here for competition details.