Climate Emergency

What are you doing to tackle the Climate Emergency?

• Share Green Volunteers at Westminster Park on Facebook Share Green Volunteers at Westminster Park on Twitter Share Green Volunteers at Westminster Park on Linkedin Email Green Volunteers at Westminster Park link

  Green Volunteers at Westminster Park

  by Shuttleworths, 5 months ago
  

  We are a friendly group of local residents who meet every Wednesday morning from 10-12 at the park. We look after both the formal borders, and the wilder areas of the park, with nature and biodiversity always in mind. We've recently planted more wildflower meadows next to the woods, made a dog-friendly pond to complement the protected wildlife pond, and have been hedge-laying and planting gaps to restore historic hedge lines. Come and join us for a green workout!

  See the Friends of Westminster Park website for contact details: https://www.westminsterpark.org.uk/?page_id=18

  
  

  We are a friendly group of local residents who meet every Wednesday morning from 10-12 at the park. We look after both the formal borders, and the wilder areas of the park, with nature and biodiversity always in mind. We've recently planted more wildflower meadows next to the woods, made a dog-friendly pond to complement the protected wildlife pond, and have been hedge-laying and planting gaps to restore historic hedge lines. Come and join us for a green workout!

  See the Friends of Westminster Park website for contact details: https://www.westminsterpark.org.uk/?page_id=18

  
  
• Share Eco Communities View and Action from: - West Cheshire’s Climate and Nature Action Event at Chester Zoo on Facebook Share Eco Communities View and Action from: - West Cheshire’s Climate and Nature Action Event at Chester Zoo on Twitter Share Eco Communities View and Action from: - West Cheshire’s Climate and Nature Action Event at Chester Zoo on Linkedin Email Eco Communities View and Action from: - West Cheshire’s Climate and Nature Action Event at Chester Zoo link

  Eco Communities View and Action from: - West Cheshire’s Climate and Nature Action Event at Chester Zoo

  by Eco Communities, 5 months ago
  

  Helen Tandy, Founder, Eco Communities

  Today, I had the pleasure of attending the West Cheshire Action on Climate and Nature event at Chester Zoo — a fitting venue for a day focused on protecting our planet’s precious biodiversity. The event was hosted by Rose McArthur from Cheshire West and Chester Council (CWaC), with an inspiring introduction from Jamie Christon, CEO of Chester Zoo, and a heartfelt keynote from Councillor Louise Gittins, Leader of the Council.

  For Eco Communities, events like this are more than just updates — they’re a chance to connect our shared work in sustainability,... Continue reading

  Helen Tandy, Founder, Eco Communities

  Today, I had the pleasure of attending the West Cheshire Action on Climate and Nature event at Chester Zoo — a fitting venue for a day focused on protecting our planet’s precious biodiversity. The event was hosted by Rose McArthur from Cheshire West and Chester Council (CWaC), with an inspiring introduction from Jamie Christon, CEO of Chester Zoo, and a heartfelt keynote from Councillor Louise Gittins, Leader of the Council.

  For Eco Communities, events like this are more than just updates — they’re a chance to connect our shared work in sustainability, net zero, and carbon literacy with the wider movement happening across West Cheshire. It’s always motivating to see so many local partners and residents committed to the same goals: cleaner air, thriving wildlife, and resilient communities.

  🌱 Planting the Seeds of Change

  One of the headline announcements from the day was West Cheshire’s renewed commitment to carbon neutrality by 2045, with the council itself aiming for 2030. That’s a bold ambition — but one grounded in community action rather than words on a page. The plan includes planting 750,000 trees across 300 hectares, which will capture over 100,000 tonnes of CO₂ and create new habitats for wildlife. Councillor Louise Gittins emphasised that this Climate Emergency Response Plan was co-produced with communities, not imposed on them — and that everyone has a role to play.

  Through the Inspire platform, residents, schools, and local groups can share projects, ideas, and progress, building a network of action across the borough. As Louise put it, “We can’t wait for perfect technologies — we have to act now, one project, one community at a time.”

  🐝 Bringing Nature Back to Life

  It was sobering to hear that Cheshire has lost 99% of its grasslands — but also uplifting to see how many projects are already reversing that trend. The Networks for Nature initiative, led by Steve Illidge, is able to invest through funding over £4 million in habitat restoration, wildlife corridors, and community engagement. The project will train more volunteers as wildlife champions, involve schools, and connect GP practices with outdoor volunteering as part of “green prescribing” — linking nature recovery with mental wellbeing.

  Alongside this, the Local Nature Recovery Strategy, led by Roger Goulding, will restore 1,000 hectares of key habitats and reconnect 7 km of the River Gowey floodplain. It’s an inspiring example of how local councils, charities, and landowners can collaborate to rebuild nature at scale.

  🌾 Farming for the Future

  The event also tackled the important question of how farming fits into the climate and nature story. Encouragingly, the message was that food production and biodiversity don’t have to be in conflict. The Future Farming Group is exploring how sustainable land management can make farms both more productive and more nature-friendly. With the least productive 20% of UK farmland delivering only 3% of calories, restoring those areas to wetlands, meadows, or woodland can actually improve overall resilience, reducing flood risk, improving soil health, and boosting pollination.

  As one speaker noted, “The health of our land and the health of our communities are inseparable.”

  🌳 Green Spaces for Health and Happiness

  Many of us know instinctively how good it feels to spend time outdoors, and the science backs it up. People who live within 300 metres of accessible green space experience lower rates of stress and mental health issues. That’s why projects like The Mersey Forest, led by Paul Nolan, are such an asset to our region. Over the past 30 years, they’ve planted 10 million trees and 96 km of hedgerows, helping to absorb millions of tonnes of CO₂ and create welcoming spaces for people and wildlife alike. The next phase aims for another 900 hectares of woodland by 2030, as well as new “mosaic habitats” and partnerships with local universities to measure the benefits.

  💷 Investing in a Greener Tomorrow

  One clear takeaway from the event was that short-term projects aren’t enough — we need long-term investment and local leadership to keep the momentum going.

  The upcoming devolution deal and creation of a mayoral combined authority by 2027 offer a real chance to join up decisions about transport, housing, energy, and nature. As speakers noted, the region’s £200 billion infrastructure spend over the next few years could be a game-changer if sustainability and biodiversity are built in from the start.

  For groups like Eco Communities, this reinforces the importance of strong partnerships and collaboration — making sure that community voices, climate literacy, and local action sit at the heart of decision-making.

  🌍 Empowering People, Inspiring Hope

  The theme running through the day was empowerment. Whether it’s youth climate forums, eco-councils in schools, or volunteers helping restore rivers and woodlands, local people are leading the way. It was inspiring to hear from Chester Zoo’s Chief Conservation Officer, Kirsten Pullen, who reminded us that climate change and biodiversity loss are inseparable challenges — and that every community can make a difference. The zoo itself aims to empower 10 million people to live sustainably by 2030, while managing 30% of its land for UK biodiversity.

  This kind of leadership shows what’s possible when organisations combine science, education, and community spirit.

  ⚡ Building a Green Workforce for the Future

  Another strong theme from the event was the urgent need to grow the clean energy and sustainability workforce across Cheshire and the wider Northwest. With demand for green skills expected to double over the next decade, the region is investing in training and upskilling local people to make sure we can deliver on our net zero goals.

  A new £900,000 fund will support skills development until March next year — helping more than 150 workers retrain, particularly those transitioning from gas to hydrogen and clean energy roles. Local businesses, colleges, and training providers are working together to make these opportunities flexible and accessible, especially for smaller employers who often struggle to release staff for training.

  Speakers also highlighted the need to remove barriers faced by young people entering green careers. Many internships and placements remain unpaid, creating barriers for those without financial support. There was a clear call to action: to ensure paid, inclusive routes into sustainability jobs, and to recognise young people as experts and change-makers, not just volunteers. Mentorship, flexibility, and accessible opportunities were all identified as key to building a diverse and capable green workforce. The message was clear — the transition to net zero must be fair and inclusive, creating opportunities for everyone to play their part.

  At Eco Communities, this resonates deeply. Through our carbon literacy programmes and local partnerships, we see every day how equipping people with knowledge and confidence drives lasting change. The path to net zero isn’t just about technology or infrastructure — it’s about people, skills, and empowerment. This is also why we chose to be part of the Aspirations Day at Trafford Hall at part of the Green Careers Carousel recently - over 250 year 5 & 6 year olds over 2 days in October talking about green jobs.

  🌍 The Road Ahead

  The West Cheshire Action on Climate and Nature event showed just how much passion and expertise already exists across our communities. From Chester Zoo’s conservation leadership to the council’s net zero commitments, and from grassroots projects to education initiatives, there’s a strong sense that we’re moving forward — together.

  For Eco Communities, we’ll continue building on this momentum: connecting people, sharing knowledge, and supporting communities to take meaningful, practical steps towards a sustainable, low-carbon future.

  I left the day full of excitement for the various projects in the region and looking forward to supporting this via our work at Eco Communities.......

  🌱 Your Turn to Act

  At the start of the event, we were all asked to take action — to share what inspires us, connect with others, and commit to one step that will make a difference. So here’s ours: at Eco Communities, we’ll keep championing carbon literacy in the community a new project for us, continue to support communities to take local climate action. We will look to reduce the need for fossil fuels to create single use plastic by championing our existing reusable party and event ware, plus our new Refill scheme both part of our new Full Circle project.

  And we’d love to invite you to also do something, whether that’s sharing your story on the Be Inspired platform, joining us at next weeks Sustainable Cheshire Showcase (11/11/25) for tips, or simply starting a conversation in your workplace, school, or street about what net zero, climate and nature emergency means for you. Every action counts, and together we can build the fair, green future our region is aiming for.
• Share ♻️ Full Circle: Refill, Reuse and Rethink on Facebook Share ♻️ Full Circle: Refill, Reuse and Rethink on Twitter Share ♻️ Full Circle: Refill, Reuse and Rethink on Linkedin Email ♻️ Full Circle: Refill, Reuse and Rethink link

  ♻️ Full Circle: Refill, Reuse and Rethink

  by Eco Communities, 5 months ago
  

  Eco Communities are launching Full Circle, a community-led, not-for-profit project helping households across Cheshire reduce single-use plastics and live more sustainably.

  🌿Full Circle – Refill

  Does your current laundry or cleaning product contain hidden chemicals? Can you refill it without adding more plastic or cardboard waste?

  A recent social media post made me look twice at some of the top “eco” brands. After a bit of research, I discovered that while my postal subscription products weren’t the worst offenders, a few ingredients — and even the dissolvable pod layer — weren’t as planet-friendly as I’d hoped. That inspired me... Continue reading

  Eco Communities are launching Full Circle, a community-led, not-for-profit project helping households across Cheshire reduce single-use plastics and live more sustainably.

  🌿Full Circle – Refill

  Does your current laundry or cleaning product contain hidden chemicals? Can you refill it without adding more plastic or cardboard waste?

  A recent social media post made me look twice at some of the top “eco” brands. After a bit of research, I discovered that while my postal subscription products weren’t the worst offenders, a few ingredients — and even the dissolvable pod layer — weren’t as planet-friendly as I’d hoped. That inspired me to return to a brand we loved during our Zero Waste Shop days — one that scores highly with Ethical Consumer Magazine: FILL REFILL CO.

  Our Full Circle Online Refill Shop now stocks eco-friendly laundry, cleaning, hair and body liquids — all refillable, plastic-free, and ethically produced.

  During the Refill trial:
  🧴 Order your refills from our online shop
  📦 Collect your order from one of our upcoming events (details below)

  
  

  🌿 Full Circle – Reusables

  Full Circle isn’t just about refills — we’re also helping the community reduce single-use waste with reusables for events.

  • Party kits for kids and adults — everything you need for a celebration, without the disposable waste.

  • Reusable cups and glasses — from coffee cups to wine glasses and ½ or pint cups, perfect for community events, parties, and festivals.

  All our reusable Party Kits and glasses are available for hire, with collection in Hoole and Winsford, making it easy to host events sustainably.

  🌿 Eco Products

  We’re starting with a couple of products the Shrinker to help you manage recycling flexible plastics and an Eco Sponge. We hope to add other sustainable items to help households go even further in reducing waste. SHOP NOW

  We will be launching local Refill Hubs and a Delivery Scheme – watch this place. Come along next Tuesday (11/11/25) for drinks and nibbles to find out more about this and lots of other projects from other organisations at the Sustainable Cheshire Showcase….

  
  

  
  

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• Share Farrall’s Group: Driving Cheshire’s Journey to Net Zero on Facebook Share Farrall’s Group: Driving Cheshire’s Journey to Net Zero on Twitter Share Farrall’s Group: Driving Cheshire’s Journey to Net Zero on Linkedin Email Farrall’s Group: Driving Cheshire’s Journey to Net Zero link

  Farrall’s Group: Driving Cheshire’s Journey to Net Zero

  by Farrall's Group, 6 months ago

  From its roots as a small family haulier to a modern logistics leader, Farrall’s Group is steering change in the fight against the climate emergency — cutting emissions, embracing clean technology, and building a greener future for Cheshire.

  “We’re not just building a business for today — we’re protecting a future for the next generation.” - Matthew Farrall, Managing Director

  For nearly 70 years, Farrall’s Group has been a trusted name on Cheshire’s roads. Founded in 1956 by Eddie Farrall, the business started with one truck and a promise to deliver with care and integrity. Today, under the leadership of... Continue reading

  From its roots as a small family haulier to a modern logistics leader, Farrall’s Group is steering change in the fight against the climate emergency — cutting emissions, embracing clean technology, and building a greener future for Cheshire.

  “We’re not just building a business for today — we’re protecting a future for the next generation.” - Matthew Farrall, Managing Director

  For nearly 70 years, Farrall’s Group has been a trusted name on Cheshire’s roads. Founded in 1956 by Eddie Farrall, the business started with one truck and a promise to deliver with care and integrity. Today, under the leadership of Managing Director Matthew Farrall and Finance Director Kat Farrall, that same spirit continues — now with a mission to protect the planet that future generations will inherit.

  Recognising the urgency of the climate emergency, Farrall’s Group has set an ambitious target to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2040, ten years ahead of the UK’s national goal. The company’s approach combines innovation, investment, and long-term thinking — proving that sustainability and logistics can go hand in hand.

  Powering the Future with Electric Trucks

  A major milestone on Farrall’s sustainability journey has been the introduction of fully electric trucks into its fleet — a pioneering move in the regional logistics sector. These vehicles are now operating across Cheshire and North Wales, significantly reducing emissions and noise pollution on local roads.

  The company plans to expand its electric fleet further, with more electric trucks already in the pipeline, as technology and infrastructure continue to advance.

  “Electric trucks are the future of sustainable logistics,” says Kat Farrall. “We’re proud to be investing early, learning how to make this technology work efficiently, and leading the way for others in our industry.”

  Clean Energy Across Operations

  Farrall’s commitment to sustainability extends across all its operations. The company has installed solar panels at both its Chester and Deeside branches, generating renewable energy to power offices, warehouses, and on-site charging points. All company cars are now electric, supporting zero-emission travel for staff.

  Every vehicle in the fleet is also fitted with Samsara tracking systems, which monitor driving behaviour and fuel usage. This allows the team to train drivers in fuel-efficient practices, reduce unnecessary consumption, and optimise routes — turning data into actionable sustainability improvements.

  Alongside this, smart energy systems monitor and reduce consumption across sites, while a zero waste to landfill policy ensures that materials are reused or recycled wherever possible.

  “Every small decision makes a difference,” says Kat. “Whether it’s switching to electric vehicles, tracking fuel efficiency, or cutting waste, sustainability is now built into everything we do.”

  Local Leadership for a Global Challenge

  By taking bold, practical action, Farrall’s Group is showing how local businesses can support Cheshire West & Chester Council’s Climate Emergency Response Plan. From clean energy to electric transport, the company is proving that change starts at home — and that leadership on the road to net zero begins with local commitment.

  As Matthew reflects, “My grandad always said, ‘Look after your trucks and they’ll look after you.’ Today, we’ve taken that a step further — if we look after our planet, it’ll look after all of us.”

  Through its actions, Farrall’s Group is driving not just goods, but progress — helping lead Cheshire’s journey toward a cleaner, more sustainable future
• Share Regenerative agriculture and circular farming at Grosvenor Farms on Facebook Share Regenerative agriculture and circular farming at Grosvenor Farms on Twitter Share Regenerative agriculture and circular farming at Grosvenor Farms on Linkedin Email Regenerative agriculture and circular farming at Grosvenor Farms link

  Regenerative agriculture and circular farming at Grosvenor Farms

  6 months ago
  

  Grosvenor Farms is one of the UK’s leading dairy and arable farms, working by the principles of regenerative agriculture and circular farming, to produce high-quality foods in a commercially and environmentally sustainable way.

  Located on Grosvenor’s Eaton Estate, Cheshire, we produce over 34 million litres of fresh milk a year – enough for 465,000 people every day – and are long-term suppliers to both Tesco and Muller. We also grow around 45,000 tonnes of forage for animal feed and 4,500 tonnes of grains.

  High quality farming and food production are integral to assuring the UK’s food security and to improving... Continue reading

  Grosvenor Farms is one of the UK’s leading dairy and arable farms, working by the principles of regenerative agriculture and circular farming, to produce high-quality foods in a commercially and environmentally sustainable way.

  Located on Grosvenor’s Eaton Estate, Cheshire, we produce over 34 million litres of fresh milk a year – enough for 465,000 people every day – and are long-term suppliers to both Tesco and Muller. We also grow around 45,000 tonnes of forage for animal feed and 4,500 tonnes of grains.

  High quality farming and food production are integral to assuring the UK’s food security and to improving its self-sufficiency. We believe this must be done in an environmentally sustainable way - improving soils, eliminating pollution, enhancing biodiversity, conserving water, and recycling waste. We see it as the right thing to do to respond to the climate and nature emergencies, and as a way to improve the efficiency of farming and, ultimately, its economic sustainability.
  
  

  Our ambition is to be carbon net zero by 2030, contributing to Grosvenor’s global commitment to reduce emissions in line with limiting global warming to 1.5°C.

  We already have the lowest carbon footprint for milk production of the farms profiled using Agrecalc - an independent carbon reporting calculator - that tracks the greenhouse gas emissions produced from farming activities.

  We are building on a strong track record, having achieved significant carbon reductions in our dairy activities since the upgrade of our farm in 2014 through the introduction of renewable energy from solar panels on our sheds, the recycling of sand for bedding, and the use of manures as organic fertilisers for growing our own forage.

  We are investing in innovative technologies like anaerobic digestion and a biogas upgrading facility to recycle cow manure, removing 7,000 tonnes of biogenic carbon dioxide from the atmosphere annually to reduce carbon emissions on the farm by approximately 2,500 tonnes CO2 equivalent per year and generating enough renewable energy to heat over 5,000 homes a year.

  We use conservation tillage – cultivating our soils as little as practically possible – to retain carbon, reduce erosion and runoff, and recover nitrogen, an essential nutrient for plant growth. The manure from our cows is recycled into organic fertilisers to replenish our soils. This means that more than 80% of our animal feed is grown without artificial fertilisers.

  These initiatives have resulted in an increase of soil carbon – an indicator of its health and quality – averaging 3% – more than 50% better than the UK average for cultivated soils.
  
  

  We only grow food on land where it’s sustainable to do so and work to enhance the environment where it’s not. We choose to manage approximately 12% of our land to support greater biodiversity, restore natural habitats, while also improving the quality and quantity of water on the farm, reducing the risk of pollution downstream.

  
  

  In striving to be a leading example of sustainability within the rural economy, we believe in the importance of delivering lasting benefit, beyond the farm gates, to the communities of which we are part.

  We are a significant employer in rural Cheshire and ultimately a contributor to the local economy through the employment of more than 70 people across a wide variety of roles.

  Each year, we welcome more than 500 visitors to Grosvenor Farms. They include members of our local communities, the agricultural media, farming groups, universities, agricultural colleges, policy makers and school children.

  We passionately believe in the importance for all people, but especially children and those from urban areas, to have a connection with the countryside, the environment, and where our food comes from.

  We have a longstanding relationship with national education charity the Country Trust, whose president is the Duke of Westminster, and have been welcoming children on visits to the Eaton Estate and Grosvenor Farms for more than 25 years.
  
  Find out more about Grosvenor Farms.
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  Celebrate Without the Waste: Hire a Reusable Party Kit

  by Eco Communities, 6 months ago
  

  Parties are about fun, food and friendship, but too often they leave behind something less joyful: mountains of single-use waste. From disposable plates and cups to cutlery and packaging, the bin often ends up as full as the dance floor.

  The good news? There’s a simple, affordable, and eco-friendly solution: hiring a reusable party kit.

  Why Choose Reusables Over Disposables?

  Every disposable plate or cup comes at a cost — to your wallet and to the planet.

  • Resources & emissions – It takes energy, water, and raw materials to make disposables, all for just a few minutes of... Continue reading

  Parties are about fun, food and friendship, but too often they leave behind something less joyful: mountains of single-use waste. From disposable plates and cups to cutlery and packaging, the bin often ends up as full as the dance floor.

  The good news? There’s a simple, affordable, and eco-friendly solution: hiring a reusable party kit.

  Why Choose Reusables Over Disposables?

  Every disposable plate or cup comes at a cost — to your wallet and to the planet.

  • Resources & emissions – It takes energy, water, and raw materials to make disposables, all for just a few minutes of use.

  • Waste – Many disposable items can’t be recycled, especially if they’re food-stained, meaning they head straight to landfill or incineration.

  • Plastic pollution – Lots of single-use cups and plates contain plastic or coatings that contribute to pollution and microplastics.

  • Cumulative costs – Buying packs of paper plates and cups for every event quickly adds up.

  By hiring a reusable kit, you avoid all that — and get the bonus of sturdy, proper tableware that makes your party feel that bit more special.

  Hire the Eco Communities Kit in Cheshire

  If you’re hosting in Cheshire, you can hire our Eco Communities kit locally. We’ve designed two options to suit different gatherings:

  BOOK KIT

  🎈 Kids’ Parties Kit

  • 40 plates, bowls, cups, and sets of cutlery

  🥂 Adult Parties Kit

  • 50 plates and cutlery
  • 50 coffee cups
  • 50 wine glasses
  • ½ pint and pint cups for cold drinks
  • Large jugs

  That means whether you’re throwing a birthday party, community gathering, or family celebration, you’ll have everything you need — without creating bags of single-use waste.

  Hiring is simple: pick up the kit, enjoy your event, then return the items afterwards (cleaned and ready for the next celebration).
• Share Breaking the CO₂ Ceiling: What the Earth's Record Spike Means - Join our Community Carbon Literacy Training on Facebook Share Breaking the CO₂ Ceiling: What the Earth's Record Spike Means - Join our Community Carbon Literacy Training on Twitter Share Breaking the CO₂ Ceiling: What the Earth's Record Spike Means - Join our Community Carbon Literacy Training on Linkedin Email Breaking the CO₂ Ceiling: What the Earth's Record Spike Means - Join our Community Carbon Literacy Training link

  Breaking the CO₂ Ceiling: What the Earth's Record Spike Means - Join our Community Carbon Literacy Training

  by Eco Communities, 6 months ago
  

  Helen Tandy - Eco Communities

  A Wake-Up Call: CO₂ Levels Just Hit a Record High

  In 2024, the planet gave us a clear, unignorable message: atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO₂) concentrations jumped by 3.5 parts per million (ppm) — the largest single-year increase ever recorded since measurements began in 1957. That pushes the global average to around 424 ppm, a 52% rise over pre-industrial levels.

  Donald Trump can try to deny climate change all he likes, but science doesn’t lie. The numbers don’t care about politics. We can see the results with our own eyes: heatwaves, wildfires, shifting seasons, and... Continue reading

  Helen Tandy - Eco Communities

  A Wake-Up Call: CO₂ Levels Just Hit a Record High

  In 2024, the planet gave us a clear, unignorable message: atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO₂) concentrations jumped by 3.5 parts per million (ppm) — the largest single-year increase ever recorded since measurements began in 1957. That pushes the global average to around 424 ppm, a 52% rise over pre-industrial levels.

  Donald Trump can try to deny climate change all he likes, but science doesn’t lie. The numbers don’t care about politics. We can see the results with our own eyes: heatwaves, wildfires, shifting seasons, and extreme weather events that ripple across the globe.

  🔥 What’s Driving This Unprecedented Jump?

  There’s no single villain here, it’s a cocktail of human activity and stressed ecosystems:

  • Fossil Fuel Emissions: Despite renewables gaining traction, the world is still burning far too much coal, oil, and gas.

  • Intense Wildfires: Fires in places like the Amazon and Africa have released massive amounts of CO₂, creating a feedback loop of heat and dryness.

  • Weakened Carbon Sinks: Our forests, soils, and oceans — natural CO₂ sponges — are under pressure from droughts, heatwaves, and deforestation, meaning less CO₂ is being absorbed.

  After campaigning for nearly 30 years, I never thought we’d find ourselves here again, with people unwilling to accept climate change, thinking we can just go on as usual with a shrug and a “Drill, Baby, Drill!”

  🌡️ Why It Matters

  This spike is more than a number — it’s a warning we cannot ignore:

  -Accelerated Warming: More CO₂ equals more trapped heat and rising global temperatures.

  -Extreme Weather Events: Heatwaves, storms, floods, and droughts are becoming the new normal.

  -Ocean Acidification: Increased CO₂ levels are making our oceans more acidic, threatening marine life.

  -Ecosystem Stress: Plants, animals, and entire habitats are struggling to cope with rapid changes.

  We can’t afford to act like this is someone else’s problem. It’s here, it’s now, and we see the impacts all around us.

  🌱 How We Can Make a Difference

  Here’s the thing — even though the scale is huge, communities and individuals do have power:

  • Lead by Example: Reduce energy use, support renewables, and make low-carbon choices in your daily life.

  • Restore Nature: Plant trees, support local conservation projects, and protect natural habitats.

  • Speak Up: Make sure our politicians know that climate denial is a non-starter. We vote for leaders who take this seriously.

  • Build Community Action: Educate friends, neighbours, and local groups. Collective action is unstoppable.

  Ever the optimist, I focus on encouragement. Every small action matters, and when communities come together, we can tip the scales.

  🌍 Keep Climate on the Agenda

  We must make it clear: ignoring climate change is not an option. It’s not just an environmental issue, it’s social, economic, and moral. We’ve seen the consequences around the world. We know what’s at stake.

  And yes, we can make a difference. We can reduce emissions, restore nature, and influence policy, together. But we have to act, and we have to be persistent.

  Call to Action: Stay informed, stay engaged, and let’s make sure our voices are heard. Communities matter. Individual action matters. Politicians must know: climate denial is a dead-end, and we will vote for leaders who act. Book your place on our first Carbon Literacy for Communities Course - coming to Chester in January

  BOOK YOUR PLACE

  
  
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  1st Tarporley Scouts

  by 1st Tarporley Scouts, 6 months ago
  

  1^st Tarporley Scout Group has its own scout hut which uses electricity and gas for its power and heating. The Group's Trustees wanted to reduce the carbon footprint and considered air to air heat pumps to replace an aging gas boiler. However, this necessitated a new three phase electricity supply which proved very expensive to install and was not a viable option.

  The Trustees turned their attention to installing a solar power array on the roof of the scout hut and a battery on the external wall. The Trustees obtained three quotations and applied for a grant towards installation... Continue reading

  1^st Tarporley Scout Group has its own scout hut which uses electricity and gas for its power and heating. The Group's Trustees wanted to reduce the carbon footprint and considered air to air heat pumps to replace an aging gas boiler. However, this necessitated a new three phase electricity supply which proved very expensive to install and was not a viable option.

  The Trustees turned their attention to installing a solar power array on the roof of the scout hut and a battery on the external wall. The Trustees obtained three quotations and applied for a grant towards installation from CWAC. The grant was awarded and the solar array and battery system was installed in mid June 2025. See attached photographs.

  A massive reduction in electricity consumption was immediately identified and this has continued into October. See the attached bar chart which shows a reduction per months of July, August and September from around 200 kWh to 2 kWh, which is fantastic!

  Furthermore, a contract was agreed with Octopus Energy Ltd whereby maximum use will be made of off-peak, cheaper electricity to charge the battery when the solar panels are generating less energy. The battery is sized to cope with the power / energy necessary to run most scouting sessions in the scout hut. In return Octopus will take available energy from the battery to feed into the grid at peak use periods. Everyone wins!

  The grant also covered the purchase of LED strip lights to replace the existing fluorescent strip lights. This was work that the Scout Group was able to carry out.

  Our sincere thanks go to CWAC for assisting us in the grant application process in a constructive and friendly way.
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  Graduating student recognised for pivotal and pioneering volunteer roles

  by Felicity Roberts, 7 months ago
  

  A soon-to-be graduate has made a difference for the environment and fellow students as “the driving force” behind a new volunteer-run scheme at the University of Chester.

  Yana Laszcziw has been praised for her care, enthusiasm and dedication in leading a team of students in setting up and running the University’s first-ever clothes and accessories Swap Shop.

  The 20-year-old took on the role of Swap Shop Project Co-ordinator among many other volunteering efforts during her time studying for a BSc (Bachelor of Science) with Honours Forensic Biology degree at the University.

  A finalist for the University’s Student Volunteer of the... Continue reading

  A soon-to-be graduate has made a difference for the environment and fellow students as “the driving force” behind a new volunteer-run scheme at the University of Chester.

  Yana Laszcziw has been praised for her care, enthusiasm and dedication in leading a team of students in setting up and running the University’s first-ever clothes and accessories Swap Shop.

  The 20-year-old took on the role of Swap Shop Project Co-ordinator among many other volunteering efforts during her time studying for a BSc (Bachelor of Science) with Honours Forensic Biology degree at the University.

  A finalist for the University’s Student Volunteer of the Year Award 2025, she was inspired to go to university and study Forensic Biology by her parents’ police force roles.

  Upon arriving, she was soon giving her time to a range of initiatives, including ‘Give It a Go’ sessions; from gardening at the University allotment, to Christmas window display design at a city charity shop, and becoming the Vice President and Charity Officer for the Catholic Society at the University.

  On hearing about the idea for a Swap Shop at a Carbon Literacy training session, she said: “The project immediately held my interest as I am interested in sustainability, charity shopping, and exploring different clothing styles.

  “The scheme is a Swap Shop for all things clothes-related; we accept clothes and accessories donations from students and staff, and in return, they can choose items to take away with them, free of charge. The deal is: an item for an item, or a pound for an item if you don’t have anything to swap.

  “Getting the Swap Shop set up and promoting each event took a lot more effort than I first imagined, but every moment has been worth it. I am particularly proud that we are saving clothes from landfill and promoting the second-hand clothing agenda, and that I am leaving something behind, that others can benefit from.”

  Amy Butt, Sustainability Engagement Co-ordinator at the University, shared that Yana was “the driving force for its continued success”.

  She continued: “Without Yana's contributions, the Swap Shop would not have been possible, which would have deprived students and staff of the chance to access affordable clothing and raise awareness about fast fashion in a joyful and understanding way.”

  Yana, originally from County Donegal in Ireland and later moving to Islington, London, said she had gained a lot from her time as Swap Shop Project Co-ordinator and all her volunteering roles.

  “I have developed my communication, event-organising and employability skills. I have also made connections and friendships while volunteering.

  “Moreover, these experiences have inspired me to support those in my community and foster a culture of care in daily life. The sense of fulfilment gained from supporting the vulnerable or providing a free service to those in need is so meaningful, as I have learned from my role as a telephone befriender for Snow Angels, a social enterprise which supports older people to continue to live independently and keep well.

  “Also, being Vice President of the Catholic Society was a highlight of my time in Chester as I also feel a sense of fulfilment in helping to grow a society, and, as with the Swap Shop, leave some sort of legacy.”

  Amy further commended Yana and the impact she has made: “Yana is one of the most committed and reliable students I have had the privilege of working with. Always willing to get involved, she responds with efficiency and clarity. Yana is a fantastic communicator and always gives 100%. She has shown great levels of empathy, as she possesses fantastic listening skills and always considers other people’s circumstances.

  “Yana is the glue that holds a community of volunteers together - she creates a happier and healthier University environment. She gives without expectation of anything in return, which, quite simply, is the embodiment of what volunteering should be about.”

  Yana returned the sentiment, outlining that: “I would not have participated in half of the opportunities that I did without the University staff and support schemes.”

  She added that she decided to study at the University of Chester as the size of the city and the proximity of the campus to all the amenities on offer appealed to her, while the Forensic Biology course was one of few on offer in the country, with the accreditation by the Royal Society of Biology really tipping her decision.

  She liked the combination of a grounding in the traditional science of Biology with crime scene investigation, providing more choice of careers, and is currently considering roles in the police, wider public services, and not-for-profit organisations after gaining “a real passion for community work and an interest in the not-for-profit sector through volunteering”. Looking ahead, she said: “There are so many opportunities to grasp.”
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  New Plans and Survey for Hydro Hub

  by Jane Harrad-Roberts, Project Director, Green Expo 2025, 9 months ago
  

  Many people wonder about the apparently derelict sandstone building on the corner of Castle Drive and the Old Dee Bridge between Chester and Handbridge.

  Plans are being developed to return this long-neglected part our heritage back to have a useful place in the future of Chester. Cheshire Heritage and Sustainability Enterprises, or “CHASE” for short is the not-for-profit organisation developing the plans and your views are now being sought in a survey and at meetings in July.

  In 1913, this building was a newly constructed state of the art hydroelectric station, the first of its kind in England to provide... Continue reading

  Many people wonder about the apparently derelict sandstone building on the corner of Castle Drive and the Old Dee Bridge between Chester and Handbridge.

  Plans are being developed to return this long-neglected part our heritage back to have a useful place in the future of Chester. Cheshire Heritage and Sustainability Enterprises, or “CHASE” for short is the not-for-profit organisation developing the plans and your views are now being sought in a survey and at meetings in July.

  In 1913, this building was a newly constructed state of the art hydroelectric station, the first of its kind in England to provide electricity from both tidal and headwater.

  At one point, the station provided 40% of Chester’s electricity requirement until it ceased operation in 1951. The turbines were removed and pumps installed in 1952 to become a water pumping station until 2015. Since then, the building has stood idle and is deteriorating.

  CHASE’s ‘Hydro Hub’ Project aims to give the site a new lease of life with several functions.

  Firstly, as an education centre on career paths for the green economy – good jobs for local people. The Chester area has the potential to lead the UK on decarbonising the economy.

  Secondly, as a potential source of sustainable power and heat for the local area. The biggest energy use in the country is heating homes and businesses, and taking heat from the river is a new technology that could make better use of the building.

  Thirdly, as a unique new visitor centre for the city featuring a rooftop café/restaurant, showcasing the last thousand years of sustainable use on the River Dee, and its potential ahead.

  Chair of CHASE CIC, Chester based Dr Niall Macfadyen said; “We need support to turn the Hydro Building from its unused and rather sorry state to a thriving educational and visitor attraction which generates its own energy and heat.”

  “We would really appreciate your and any of your friends and colleagues’ opinions on the Hydro Hub, so a short survey has been put together by Marketing PRojects to better understand your views. We need as many views as possible and we’d love to hear from you.”

  The link to the short, 2 min. survey is here: https://www.survio.com/survey/d/Hydro-Hub-Concept-Survey-2025 The survey closes at the end of July.

  LtoR: Dr Niall McFadyen, Chair of Cheshire Heritage and Sustainability Enterprises, Ed Miliband, Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero and Sam Dixon, MP for Chester North and Neston meeting outside the Hydro Building, Castle Drive.

  Some of the latest plans. More are available from https://hydro-hub.uk