Climate Emergency

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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.

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.


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
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  • 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.

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  • Share Title: Science Week at Kingsmead Primary – Inspiring Change for a Sustainable Future on Facebook Share Title: Science Week at Kingsmead Primary – Inspiring Change for a Sustainable Future on Twitter Share Title: Science Week at Kingsmead Primary – Inspiring Change for a Sustainable Future on Linkedin Email Title: Science Week at Kingsmead Primary – Inspiring Change for a Sustainable Future link

    Title: Science Week at Kingsmead Primary – Inspiring Change for a Sustainable Future

    by Ruth Duberley, about 1 year ago


    Pupils at Kingsmead Primary School in Northwich recently took part in an exciting and impactful Science Week. With the support of over 30 visitors, including STEM Ambassadors, scientists, and local A-level Science students from Sir John Deane’s College, the event explored the theme of Change through activities and talks which included sustainability, climate change, and innovative solutions for a better future.

    A School Committed to Sustainability

    Kingsmead Primary has long been committed to eco-friendly initiatives, incorporating rainwater harvesting and solar panels into the building’s design and encouraging energy and water saving attitudes in our children and school community through its... Continue reading


    Pupils at Kingsmead Primary School in Northwich recently took part in an exciting and impactful Science Week. With the support of over 30 visitors, including STEM Ambassadors, scientists, and local A-level Science students from Sir John Deane’s College, the event explored the theme of Change through activities and talks which included sustainability, climate change, and innovative solutions for a better future.

    A School Committed to Sustainability

    Kingsmead Primary has long been committed to eco-friendly initiatives, incorporating rainwater harvesting and solar panels into the building’s design and encouraging energy and water saving attitudes in our children and school community through its active school Eco councillors. However, our pupils remain eager to expand their knowledge further and find new ways to contribute to protecting the planet.

    Engaging Activities and Inspiring Presenters

    Throughout the week, pupils were captivated by many workshops and talks designed to educate and inspire. Younger students explored metal recycling and learnt how to identify recyclable food packaging. They were fascinated to discover that rubber tyres can be repurposed into sandals, plastic bottles transformed into polyester fabric or car bumpers, tennis balls are recycled into court surfacing, and even chewing gum can be turned into skateboard wheels!

    A highlight of the week was a visit from a Planetarium, where both pupils and staff were enthralled by a visiting scientist from Keele University. Children heard how researchers are investigating extraterrestrial life, hoping that discoveries could offer possible solutions to reduce the impact of climate change on Earth and potentially lead to the building of sustainable human settlements in space. Another guest speaker, an engineer from the European Space Tribology Laboratory, shared his experiences of working on major space missions, including the James Webb Space Telescope and the JUICE mission to Jupiter’s icy moons. He also spoke about the European Space Agency’s Zero Debris Approach, an initiative aimed at minimizing space debris by 2030.

    Connecting Science to the Natural World

    Workshops on biodiversity explored how climate change impacts butterflies and insects. Students learnt about the remarkable adaptation of the peppered moth, that changed colour in response to air pollution, and found out about butterflies and insects that are now thriving locally due to the salt deposits around Northwich. An expert from the Cheshire Wildlife Trust worked with children to explore habitats in the school grounds, and children then considered how they could improve different areas of the school site to provide better support for insect life and, in turn, other wildlife.

    Technology for a Greener Planet

    Some classes also explored the role of AI in environmental sustainability. Pupils learnt of initiatives such as using it to monitor deforestation in the Amazon rainforest and to optimize recycling and composting efforts to reduce landfill waste. Since Science week, the school has introduced designated food waste bins to commit to reducing food waste being sent to landfill.

    A Lasting Impact

    Science Week at Kingsmead Primary was a resounding success, igniting children’s natural curiosity, critical thinking, and their desire to help protect our planet. With many hands-on experiences with some wonderful scientists during the week, our students have been inspired to become changemakers, ready to embrace science and technology to help create a more sustainable world.

    By Ruth Duberley, Science Lead




  • Share Making Events More Sustainable on Facebook Share Making Events More Sustainable on Twitter Share Making Events More Sustainable on Linkedin Email Making Events More Sustainable link

    Making Events More Sustainable

    by Eco Communities, about 1 year ago

    At Eco Communities, one of our key aims is to reduce single-use plastics—especially at events, where waste can quickly add up. We support event organizers in making their gatherings more eco-friendly by offering reusable cup solutions and sustainability advice. In some cases, we attend events to engage with the public and manage the reusable cups directly, and we also offer a cup loan service for both hot and cold beverages.

    Supporting Events with Reusable Cups

    Since launching our initiative, our reusable cups have been used at numerous school events. Recently, Cheshire Swing Cats incorporated them into their three-day Swing Cat... Continue reading

    At Eco Communities, one of our key aims is to reduce single-use plastics—especially at events, where waste can quickly add up. We support event organizers in making their gatherings more eco-friendly by offering reusable cup solutions and sustainability advice. In some cases, we attend events to engage with the public and manage the reusable cups directly, and we also offer a cup loan service for both hot and cold beverages.

    Supporting Events with Reusable Cups

    Since launching our initiative, our reusable cups have been used at numerous school events. Recently, Cheshire Swing Cats incorporated them into their three-day Swing Cat Strut event at Hoole Community Centre. Winsford Council is also utilizing our Cheshire Cups for its upcoming Winsford Decides event, which will host around 300 residents.

    Collaborating for a Plastic-Free Future

    Our next major event is the Taste Cheshire Food & Drink Festival at Chester Racecourse over Easter Weekend. We are working closely with the festival team to significantly reduce single-use plastics this year, with an ambitious goal of making the event completely plastic-free by 2026.

    Beyond that, we are managing the Sustainable Event Plan for Chester Green Weekend and Party in the Park in Winsford, both happening in June.

    Sustainability at Chester Green Weekend

    READ MORE - Click Here


  • Share Energywise in Cheshire West and Chester on Facebook Share Energywise in Cheshire West and Chester on Twitter Share Energywise in Cheshire West and Chester on Linkedin Email Energywise in Cheshire West and Chester link

    Energywise in Cheshire West and Chester

    by Eco Communities, about 1 year ago

    Eco Communities Founding Director, Helen Tandy has been speaking with Andy Rawlins from Energy Saving Trust and here is some information from Andy I hope you will find of interest. Definitely complete the Homewise questionnaire – Top Tip - have your annual gas and electricity kWh ready.

    There’s a new on service in town for those looking to reduce their energy bills and carbon emissions. Energywise’s free low carbon technology advice service is now available to all residents in Cheshire West and Chester.



    What is Energywise?

    Energywise is run by the experts at Energy Saving Trust. It provides tailored... Continue reading

    Eco Communities Founding Director, Helen Tandy has been speaking with Andy Rawlins from Energy Saving Trust and here is some information from Andy I hope you will find of interest. Definitely complete the Homewise questionnaire – Top Tip - have your annual gas and electricity kWh ready.

    There’s a new on service in town for those looking to reduce their energy bills and carbon emissions. Energywise’s free low carbon technology advice service is now available to all residents in Cheshire West and Chester.



    What is Energywise?

    Energywise is run by the experts at Energy Saving Trust. It provides tailored advice to help you make informed decisions about energy saving technologies, such as solar panels or heat pumps. Completing its Homewise tool provides you with a free, personalised plan and costed roadmap for home energy efficiency upgrades that match your budget and goals. Additionally, Energywise can connect you with accredited installers and provide information about funding opportunities to make getting these improvements easier.

    Getting a plan

    Getting started with Energywise is simple. You can visit the Energywise website and complete its Homewise tool by answering some questions about your property. This creates a customised plan outlining the most effective energy saving measures specific to your needs.

    If you’d prefer to speak to someone directly, Energywise provides expert advice and a plan for your home via phone, email or WhatsApp. It also helps you find certified installers and explore funding opportunities, making the process of improving energy efficiency as seamless as possible.

    Energy Saving Trust

    Energy Saving Trust manages the service on behalf of SP Energy Networks. It empowers households across the UK to make informed energy choices as part of its mission to address the climate emergency. With its expertise, the advice and support you receive from Energywise are both reliable and tailored to your home.

    Who can benefit?

    Energywise is available to residents in areas served by SP Energy Networks, including all of Cheshire West and Chester. Use this energy networks postcode checker to confirm if your postcode is covered by SP Energy Networks, and therefore eligible for Energywise’s free service.

    Getting started

    • Visit the website: use the Homewise tool at getenergywise.org.uk.
    • Contact an advisor: for direct support, message via WhatsApp or call 0808 1968268, which are available Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm, excluding public holidays.
    • Submit a contact form: for an email response fill out the website’s contact form.

    By taking advantage of Energywise, you are not only improving your home's energy efficiency but also helping create a more sustainable future for Cheshire West and Chester. Start your journey today and discover how low carbon technologies can transform your home.



  • Share Have Your Say on Sustainability in Chester! on Facebook Share Have Your Say on Sustainability in Chester! on Twitter Share Have Your Say on Sustainability in Chester! on Linkedin Email Have Your Say on Sustainability in Chester! link

    Have Your Say on Sustainability in Chester!

    by Eco Communities, about 1 year ago


    Chester residents, we need your voice! Sustainability is a key focus for our city, and your input can make a real difference.

    Eco Communities’ Helen Tandy, alongside Vanessa Bond from the Chester Residents Association, has been invited by Colin Potts, Programme Leader in International Tourism Management, to assist a University of Chester student, Luisa Ellis, in gathering important insights on sustainability in Chester.

    Luisa is conducting a research project as part of her undergraduate degree, focusing on resident priorities for sustainable development in our city. This research will also contribute to the Chester One City Plan and Chester Tourism Plan... Continue reading


    Chester residents, we need your voice! Sustainability is a key focus for our city, and your input can make a real difference.

    Eco Communities’ Helen Tandy, alongside Vanessa Bond from the Chester Residents Association, has been invited by Colin Potts, Programme Leader in International Tourism Management, to assist a University of Chester student, Luisa Ellis, in gathering important insights on sustainability in Chester.

    Luisa is conducting a research project as part of her undergraduate degree, focusing on resident priorities for sustainable development in our city. This research will also contribute to the Chester One City Plan and Chester Tourism Plan, helping shape a greener and more sustainable future for all.

    We are asking you to take a few moments to share your opinions by completing a short digital questionnaire. Your feedback will not only support Luisa’s academic research but will also help inform future events in Chester, including Chester Green Weekend. Eco Communities is deeply committed to making Cheshire more sustainable, and your responses can positively impact numerous local initiatives and organizations.

    The questionnaire is open until March 14th, 2025, so don’t miss your chance to contribute!

    Click here to complete the survey: https://app.onlinesurveys.jisc.ac.uk/s/chester/sustainabilitychester

    Together, we can make Chester a more sustainable and eco-friendly city. Thank you for your support!

  • Share Chester Green Weekend 2025: A Celebration of Sustainability on Facebook Share Chester Green Weekend 2025: A Celebration of Sustainability on Twitter Share Chester Green Weekend 2025: A Celebration of Sustainability on Linkedin Email Chester Green Weekend 2025: A Celebration of Sustainability link

    Chester Green Weekend 2025: A Celebration of Sustainability

    by Eco Communities, about 1 year ago

    Imagine a vibrant, eco-conscious festival set in the heart of Chester—a city rich in history, surrounded by nature, and buzzing with innovation. Chester Green Weekend is back for its second year, building on the incredible success of 2024!

    Taking place on 7th & 8th June 2025, this inspiring weekend will transform Chester’s city centre into a hub of sustainability, with interactive workshops, engaging events, and hands-on experiences designed to show how we can all live more sustainably. Whether you're a local resident, an eco-enthusiast, or a visitor from afar, there’s something for everyone!

    What’s Happening?

    🌿 Workshops & Talks... Continue reading

    Imagine a vibrant, eco-conscious festival set in the heart of Chester—a city rich in history, surrounded by nature, and buzzing with innovation. Chester Green Weekend is back for its second year, building on the incredible success of 2024!

    Taking place on 7th & 8th June 2025, this inspiring weekend will transform Chester’s city centre into a hub of sustainability, with interactive workshops, engaging events, and hands-on experiences designed to show how we can all live more sustainably. Whether you're a local resident, an eco-enthusiast, or a visitor from afar, there’s something for everyone!

    What’s Happening?

    🌿 Workshops & Talks – Learn from sustainability experts, local businesses, and eco-entrepreneurs.
    🛍️ Eco-Friendly Market – Discover sustainable products and chat with businesses making a difference.
    🎨 Hands-On Activities – Get creative with upcycling, gardening, and eco-friendly crafts.
    🎶 Live Entertainment – Enjoy music and performances celebrating nature and sustainability.

    📍 Where? You'll find activities across Chester City Centre, including Town Hall Square, Exchange Square, and Deans Field.

    Get Involved!

    Are you a business or organization passionate about sustainability? There are several ways to be part of Chester Green Weekend:

    Have a Stall – Showcase your products or engage with visitors over the two days.

    Run a Workshop – Share your expertise and inspire others.

    Booking and more info


    Sponsor a Workshop – Help us keep activities free and accessible.
    Become a Sponsorship Partner – Support the event while boosting your brand’s visibility.

    📩 Interested? Contact us at helentandy@sustainablecheshire.uk

    Join Us for an Unforgettable Weekend!

    Whether you want to browse, learn, participate, or simply soak up the atmosphere, Chester Green Weekend 2025 is not to be missed.

    🎟️ Book your tickets now to stay updated on workshops and events: Get Tickets Here

    🔗 More Info:
    🌱 Eco Communities
    🍽️ Taste Cheshire

  • Share Student and staff research day focuses on sustainability on Facebook Share Student and staff research day focuses on sustainability on Twitter Share Student and staff research day focuses on sustainability on Linkedin Email Student and staff research day focuses on sustainability link

    Student and staff research day focuses on sustainability

    by Alexandra Williams, about 1 year ago

    Students and academics at the University of Chester shared ideas and best practice on sustainability at a research day recently, when the internationally significant research profile of the Faculty of Science, Business and Enterprise was showcased.

    From playing a lead role in industrial decarbonisation research (Chester Business School), to the conservation of endangered species (School of Natural Sciences;), to advanced and sustainable engineering covering renewable energy (School of Computer and Engineering Sciences), the Faculty’s diverse array of pioneering research is leading the way to a sustainable future. CREST (The Centre for Research into Environmental... Continue reading

    Students and academics at the University of Chester shared ideas and best practice on sustainability at a research day recently, when the internationally significant research profile of the Faculty of Science, Business and Enterprise was showcased.

    From playing a lead role in industrial decarbonisation research (Chester Business School), to the conservation of endangered species (School of Natural Sciences;), to advanced and sustainable engineering covering renewable energy (School of Computer and Engineering Sciences), the Faculty’s diverse array of pioneering research is leading the way to a sustainable future. CREST (The Centre for Research into Environmental and Sustainable Transitions) is driving rural innovation by integrating nature-based and engineering solutions, modelling sustainable agricultural value chains using life cycle analysis and material flow analysis.

    The research event explored the United Nations [17] sustainability goals – the challenges they create and finding new ways to tackle them with collaborative research. It brought the whole community of researchers together from MRes student researchers to experienced research professors.

    The event started with an introduction to the research and knowledge exchange strategy across the University. Each of the three research leads - Dr Michal Izak, Professor in Organisation Studies; Dr Stuart Cunningham, Senior Lecturer in Computer Science and Dr Matt Geary, Associate Professor in Conservation Biology - gave a presentation and overview of research in their School. Two colleagues from each school then discussed their research.

    Research students had the chance to showcase their work. PhD student Eleanor Lewis presented her industrial decarbonisation research, which is sponsored by Encirc, a glass container manufacturer located in Elton. Her cutting-edge research will assist the company’s strategy to decarbonise its operations.

    Master of research (MRes) students entered a presentation competition on the day to give a flavour of their work. MRes Biological Sciences student Emma Barker was the winner, with runners-up Lyndon Howson, MRes Biological Sciences and Lucy Morris, PhD student. Lucy is researching pioneering wildlife monitoring for lesser horseshoe bats whilst Lyndon is assessing hedgehog conservation strategies. The winner, Emma is researching leopard population statistics using camera trap data.

    Professor Julieanna Powell-Turner, Associate Dean Research and Innovation, Faculty of Science, Business and Enterprise, said: “Our inaugural Faculty Research Day brought us together to engage in meaningful discussions on research priorities and collaborative opportunities. I hope this shared experience has laid the foundation for future innovative and interdisciplinary endeavors across our three Schools and the wider University.”

    Dr Stuart Cunningham, Senior Lecturer in Computer Science and Research Lead, added: “Our Away Day was a fantastic opportunity to galvanise our research teams, strategise and explore collaborative opportunities for a sustainable future. It was inspiring to hear about the diverse array of exciting research fields that colleagues across the Faculty are engaged with, and how we can support one another to reach our full potential.”

    Find out more about the Faculty of Science Business and Enterprise or the University of Chester’s research (50% world leading in the most recent Research Excellent Framework).

    Caption: Lyndon, Lucy and Professor Julieanna Powell-Turner.

  • Share Mickle Trafford Greenspace is hosting a tree planting day during National Tree Week on Facebook Share Mickle Trafford Greenspace is hosting a tree planting day during National Tree Week on Twitter Share Mickle Trafford Greenspace is hosting a tree planting day during National Tree Week on Linkedin Email Mickle Trafford Greenspace is hosting a tree planting day during National Tree Week link

    Mickle Trafford Greenspace is hosting a tree planting day during National Tree Week

    over 1 year ago

    Mickle Trafford Greenspace is hosting a tree planting event on Saturday, 30 November, during this year's National Tree Week, supported by The Mersey Forest.


    Volunteers are welcome to come along and help plant a selection of trees in the field directly above the Methodist graveyard on School Lane in Mickle Trafford, Chester. The 'What3words' location for the field is: ///birthing.meanest.flows.

    Parking is available in Hoole Tennis Club, located on School Lane. To find the planting site turn right out of the car park and walk along the lane. You'll find the graveyard on the opposite side of the road to... Continue reading

    Mickle Trafford Greenspace is hosting a tree planting event on Saturday, 30 November, during this year's National Tree Week, supported by The Mersey Forest.


    Volunteers are welcome to come along and help plant a selection of trees in the field directly above the Methodist graveyard on School Lane in Mickle Trafford, Chester. The 'What3words' location for the field is: ///birthing.meanest.flows.

    Parking is available in Hoole Tennis Club, located on School Lane. To find the planting site turn right out of the car park and walk along the lane. You'll find the graveyard on the opposite side of the road to the tennis club. To get to the planting field, walk into the graveyard and continue up on the left hand side. The field is immediately beyond the graveyard.

    Volunteers are encouraged to arrive for 10am if possible. If this is not possible, then come along when you can, there are plenty of trees to plant!

    Please bring a spade and gloves if you have them. There will be some spare if needed. Wellies or sturdy boots recommended.

    For more info email: mickletraffordgreenspace@gmail.com

    If you can't make this event but are interested in getting involved in National Tree Week visit the Tree Council's website for inspiration: National Tree Week - join the UK's largest tree celebration

  • Share Neston Community Energy secures just under £38,000 grant funding in its first year on Facebook Share Neston Community Energy secures just under £38,000 grant funding in its first year on Twitter Share Neston Community Energy secures just under £38,000 grant funding in its first year on Linkedin Email Neston Community Energy secures just under £38,000 grant funding in its first year link

    Neston Community Energy secures just under £38,000 grant funding in its first year

    over 1 year ago

    Neston Community Energy, a Community Energy organisation run by local volunteers, has announced that it has received a grant from the Community Energy Fund. The grant will be used to obtain a feasibility study to investigate whether the landfill site on the Clayhill Industrial Estate, next to Neston Recycling Centre, would be a suitable site for a solar park.

    Consultants Scene Connect Ltd, who are specialists in local energy initiatives, will be carrying out the study. They will be looking at the suitability of the site and considering the financial viability of possible schemes.

    Susan Davies, Chair of Neston Community... Continue reading

    Neston Community Energy, a Community Energy organisation run by local volunteers, has announced that it has received a grant from the Community Energy Fund. The grant will be used to obtain a feasibility study to investigate whether the landfill site on the Clayhill Industrial Estate, next to Neston Recycling Centre, would be a suitable site for a solar park.

    Consultants Scene Connect Ltd, who are specialists in local energy initiatives, will be carrying out the study. They will be looking at the suitability of the site and considering the financial viability of possible schemes.

    Susan Davies, Chair of Neston Community Energy Limited said “It is less than a year since we formed, and we are very excited to embark on the Clayhill Solar Park Study. The study is possible thanks to a grant of almost £38,000 which has been made possible by an initiative of the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero. The Community Energy Fund is distributed regionally through the North West Net Zero Hub and Lancashire County Council who have helped us with the application process. Back in March, Officers from the Transport, Highways and Climate Change Department at Cheshire West and Chester suggested that we looked at the Council- owned landfill site as the basis of a solar park project, and we have received support from both them and our local councillor. It would be a real achievement to make productive use of land which is otherwise unusable.”

    Work on the study has already started and there has been an initial inspection of the site. There will be further surveys and events are planned for members of the public to see preliminary proposals early next year. Susan said, “We are a community benefit society with local people at the heart of our efforts to increase green energy generation locally, reduce reliance on central supplies and reduce emissions. If a scheme is successful, it can produce financial benefits which can be returned to the local community in a variety of ways. We hope that as many people as possible will come to the planned events in January and February 2025, not only to find out about the Clayhill project, but also to find out more about what we do.”

    Anyone wishing to find out more can contact Neston Community Energy at nestoncommunityenergy@gmail.com.




  • Share Funding boost for innovative UK projects to improve poultry welfare on Facebook Share Funding boost for innovative UK projects to improve poultry welfare on Twitter Share Funding boost for innovative UK projects to improve poultry welfare on Linkedin Email Funding boost for innovative UK projects to improve poultry welfare link

    Funding boost for innovative UK projects to improve poultry welfare

    by Felicity Roberts, over 1 year ago

    Researchers at the University of Chester are working to improve poultry welfare, production, and sustainability in the industry with innovative solutions after two partnership projects were awarded millions in UK Government funding.

    Experts from the Centre for Research into Environmental Science and Technology (CREST) at the University are part of the FeedFlow initiative, led by insect farming innovator Flybox®, which has been granted more than £3 million by Innovate UK from DEFRA’s (the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs’) Farming Innovation Programme.

    “Working alongside a phenomenal cohort of industry leaders and academic institutions, Flybox® is confident that this project... Continue reading

    Researchers at the University of Chester are working to improve poultry welfare, production, and sustainability in the industry with innovative solutions after two partnership projects were awarded millions in UK Government funding.

    Experts from the Centre for Research into Environmental Science and Technology (CREST) at the University are part of the FeedFlow initiative, led by insect farming innovator Flybox®, which has been granted more than £3 million by Innovate UK from DEFRA’s (the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs’) Farming Innovation Programme.

    “Working alongside a phenomenal cohort of industry leaders and academic institutions, Flybox® is confident that this project, which leverages advanced AI (Artificial Intelligence) and Black Soldier Fly (BSF) larvae, will deliver exceptional results to tackle challenges in health, welfare, and sustainability,” said Larry Kotch, CEO and Co-Founder of Flybox®.

    Partners also include UK poultry-tech start-up FLOX, Nottingham Trent University, Courteenhall Farms, Menchine Farm, and Clarke Group Construction. The initiative integrates AI-powered monitoring, using Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) and BSF larvae feed to enhance poultry welfare, optimise production efficiency, and promote more sustainable approaches in the poultry industry.

    The FeedFlow project uses an AI-based platform developed by FLOX which is designed to unify data streams from farms and processing factories. It propels precision agriculture by delivering real-time data on flock welfare and early warnings of potential issues. Alongside this, fortified BSF larvae delivers a rapid nutrient boost that tackles health challenges more effectively than traditional feed interventions, and the LCA, led by Jess Callaghan and Professor Julieanna Powell-Turner from the University of Chester, is assessing the Global Warming Potential, to prevent a race to the bottom in emissions.

    CREST at the University of Chester has also been awarded a £1.5 million grant from the Government’s Transforming Food Production Challenge Fund, through Innovate UK, for the NetFLOX360 partnership project. The University is part of the NetFLOX360 consortium which, in line with the FeedFlow project, aims to ‘Bridge Poultry Farming Data with Factory Insights Using AI for Sustainable Growth’. Led by FLOX, and the UK’s largest poultry producer, 2SFG (2 Sisters Food Group), NetFLOX360 will further develop the innovative, FLOX AI-based platform for large-scale poultry entities.

    With the poultry supply chain currently hampered by a lack of real data across the entire value chain, Dr Kennedy Mutua at CREST said NetFLOX360 sought to fill this gap. It will enable the integration of algorithms into a cloud-based platform while engaging with poultry producers and processors, researchers, and policymakers, to provide a tool that offers easy access and informed decision-making based on real data.

    Imtiaz Shams, the CEO of FLOX, highlighted how intelligent technologies were making a real difference to poultry farmers to increase their productivity while promoting poultry welfare and sustainability. He outlined how through the FLOX Machine Vision, real-time insights with producers and processors can be shared along the value chain through dashboards.

    Prof Julieanna Powell-Turner, Associate Dean of Research and Innovation at the University of Chester, explained more about the importance of the projects. She said that despite advancements in production efficiency, the poultry industry faced persistent issues, including poor leg health, high mortality rates, and variable feed efficiency, while poultry production contributed notably to ammonia emissions in the UK. She outlined how it was recognised that UK production systems must evolve and the two projects and their forward-thinking approaches aimed to set new standards for welfare and efficiency in the industry.

    Discussing the FeedFlow project, Prof Powell-Turner welcomed the funding and described the environmental benefits of the approach: “The use of BSF larvae offers significant potential to reduce global warming by efficiently converting organic waste into high-protein feed, which in turn lowers greenhouse gas emissions and promotes sustainable waste management.”

    Professor Emily Burton, Director of the Safety and Sustainability Research Theme at Nottingham Trent University added: “As the environmental cost of food production becomes of increasing concern to consumers, quantifying the impact of interventions via LCA analysis is becoming an essential tool in driving forward change: interventions usually cost money, so quantifying the benefit helps in decision-making.”

    Discussing the NetFLOX360 initiative, Prof Powell-Turner said: “We are delighted to be successful with our funding application to take forward the project and deliver innovative solutions that will enable poultry producers and processors to monitor the welfare of their flocks while detecting environmental hotspots along the value chain. The tool will leverage real data-driven Life Cycle Assessment for poultry production, from cradle to farm gate.”

  • Share Community apple pressing day on Facebook Share Community apple pressing day on Twitter Share Community apple pressing day on Linkedin Email Community apple pressing day link

    Community apple pressing day

    over 1 year ago

    Incredible Edibles and Friends of Westminster Park are hosting an apple pressing day at Westminster Park on Sunday, 29 September, between 10am and 3pm.

    Come and find us near the Café in the park. Bring your own apples (or there maybe some to pick from the trees in the park). Do bring a container for the juice you will make!

    Any queries, contact Linda Shuttleworth on shuttleworths@talktalk.net or 07726 425847

    Incredible Edibles and Friends of Westminster Park are hosting an apple pressing day at Westminster Park on Sunday, 29 September, between 10am and 3pm.

    Come and find us near the Café in the park. Bring your own apples (or there maybe some to pick from the trees in the park). Do bring a container for the juice you will make!

    Any queries, contact Linda Shuttleworth on shuttleworths@talktalk.net or 07726 425847