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 Chester Green Weekend - Chester with be buzzing with lots of free activities for all the family 15th and 16th June on Facebook Share Chester Green Weekend - Chester with be buzzing with lots of free activities for all the family 15th and 16th June on Twitter Share Chester Green Weekend - Chester with be buzzing with lots of free activities for all the family 15th and 16th June on Linkedin Email Chester Green Weekend - Chester with be buzzing with lots of free activities for all the family 15th and 16th June link

    Chester Green Weekend - Chester with be buzzing with lots of free activities for all the family 15th and 16th June

    by Eco Communities, about 2 years ago

    Chester Green Weekend is the final weekend of Great Big Green Week, with activities throughout the week ending with a big celebration in Chester. We want to shine the light on Chester to show it as a leading sustainable hub for the Northwest and bring residents along with us on a journey to make small changes to support a lower impact future.

    Think ‘lots of fun activities taking place around Chester City Centre and in Grosvenor Park’ over one weekend in June (15th and 16th June) with an underlying aim of raising the awareness of what we can all do... Continue reading

    Chester Green Weekend is the final weekend of Great Big Green Week, with activities throughout the week ending with a big celebration in Chester. We want to shine the light on Chester to show it as a leading sustainable hub for the Northwest and bring residents along with us on a journey to make small changes to support a lower impact future.

    Think ‘lots of fun activities taking place around Chester City Centre and in Grosvenor Park’ over one weekend in June (15th and 16th June) with an underlying aim of raising the awareness of what we can all do to tackle the climate and nature emergency.
    The event will be free of charge so anyone can attend, they will be able to get involved in activities, workshops, walks, stalls, food and entertainment will be taking place throughout the City.

    Book Free Tickets to keep updated - BOOK

    A portion of the first 25% of tickets will go into the Prize Draw and also look out for the Chester Green Tickets to go into the draw - MORE INFO

    Sustainable Talks Thursday 13th June. Storyhouse Garret Theatre. Eco Communities and Chester GAS bring an interesting panel of speakers from the region. After this at 8pm Picturehouse have one of its Green Screen Films, Wilding.

    Chester Green Weekend - Grosvenor Park 15th and 16th June

    The Sustainable Living Zone and Nature Zone will be organised by Eco Communities who put on the Sustainable Fairs in the park. You will find artisan stalls, food, drink and music. The Nature Zone will be full of family friendly fun activities from the likes of Chester Zoo and Cheshire Wildlife Trust. Chesters first Luggage Rummage. You can take part in the Luggage Rummage just bring two suitcases of pre loved, homemade or surplus crops down to Grosvenor Park sign in with the Eco Communities team and pay the £10 fee on either Saturday or Sunday.

    Then the Innovation Zone by Green Expo will move from Castle Drive to the park. They will have exciting eco-friendly exhibits, insightful talks, and opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals. Whether you're passionate about sustainability, interested in renewable energy, or just curious about living a greener lifestyle, this event is for you! Come and explore the latest in green technology, eco-friendly products, and innovative solutions.

    Central Chester Locations

    Oh Design Foundation - 22 Bridge Street – 15th and 16th June. Join then for it Material Talks Programme, Green Table by Product Design, University of Chester showcasing the best ideas for sustainable solutions, Seed Bank, Street Food Bar, and more!

    Chester Cathedral - 15th and 16th June. You will be able to view the winners of the Green Expo Photo Competition winners in the Cloisters over the weekend. You will also find talks 'Cathedral at Height' on its Solar panels and a walk up the tower to view the panels in action.

    Atfest – Town Hall Square and more - Sunday 16th June. You will find Chester Cycling Campaign and other organisations in Town Hall Square will a range of activities to encourage people to walk, bike and trike into and around the city. Check out Exchange Square for the stunt bikes displays at intervals during the day. Storyhouse, family fun activities with an active travel theme. New Chester Market will have Bike Factory Demonstration in the middle of the day.

  • Share Sustainability conference helps businesses thrive as forces for good on Facebook Share Sustainability conference helps businesses thrive as forces for good on Twitter Share Sustainability conference helps businesses thrive as forces for good on Linkedin Email Sustainability conference helps businesses thrive as forces for good link

    Sustainability conference helps businesses thrive as forces for good

    by Felicity Roberts, about 2 years ago

    Business leaders from the North West of England, North Wales and beyond are invited to a sustainability-boosting event this June, to take inspiration and practical tips from a panel of experts.

    Organised by the University of Chester, it aims to help businesses thrive, as forces for good that people want to work for, buy from, and invest in.

    The event is being held, in partnership with UK for Good, at the University’s Riverside Innovation Centre, on Tuesday June 4. It has been planned by staff from Chester Business School and the Sustainability and Environment Research and Knowledge Exchange Institute (SERKEI)... Continue reading

    Business leaders from the North West of England, North Wales and beyond are invited to a sustainability-boosting event this June, to take inspiration and practical tips from a panel of experts.

    Organised by the University of Chester, it aims to help businesses thrive, as forces for good that people want to work for, buy from, and invest in.

    The event is being held, in partnership with UK for Good, at the University’s Riverside Innovation Centre, on Tuesday June 4. It has been planned by staff from Chester Business School and the Sustainability and Environment Research and Knowledge Exchange Institute (SERKEI) at the University.

    It is hoped that the day will see businesses and organisations from across the region immerse themselves in a day of positive sustainability and be inspired by meaningful networking, discussions and practical tips. They will also be treated to a plant-based lunch made by the University’s award-winning catering team.

    As organisers Louise Goodman and Dr Rebecca Collins explain, the event looks to be a catalyst for collaboration in a world of rapidly-changing business where the impact of enterprises on people, communities, and the planet has never been more important.

    Louise Goodman, Knowledge Exchange Manager at Chester Business School, said: “To thrive - rather than just about survive - businesses need to proactively generate profit with purpose. In collaboration with UK for Good and supported by a diverse and exciting line-up of contributors, this conference will inspire, inform and challenge us all to think about how courageous leadership can deliver impactful and enduring business as a force for good.”

    Dr Rebecca Collins, Deputy Head of Division, Humanities, Cultures and Environment and Director of the SERKEI, added: “The University of Chester’s Sustainability and Environment Research and Knowledge Exchange Institute (SERKEI) exists to build relationships between the University and other organisations that enable knowledge-sharing for positive societal and environmental impact. We are looking forward to the Survive or Thrive conference acting as an important catalyst for new collaborations around sustainability in business across the region.”

    The exciting line-up of speakers will share their own experiences of tackling sustainable business challenges, related to environment, climate and nature; people and culture; inclusivity and social value and resources, and waste and circularity:

    • Donna Okell, Founder and Co-CEO of UK For Good, a B Corp Certified business enabling businesses to understand, improve, and embed social and environmental impact into their organisation.
    • Andrew Ashford, CEO of The Bren Project, an award-winning charity which supports and inspires people with learning disabilities and autism to gain experience in the workplace.
    • PK Whalen and Andrea Wood, of Positive Planet, helping organisations tackle their environmental impact and embed sustainable working practices.
    • Julieanna Powell-Turner, Professor of Environmental Sustainability, University of Chester, with more than 20 years’ experience in environmental management and protection.
    • Simon Pringle, Visiting Professor at the University of Chester and an independent coach and management consultant with a passion for supporting leaders to enable change.
    • Dr Matthew Watkins, a Senior Lecturer in Sustainable Product Design Engineering in the Wolfson School at Loughborough University.
    • Elliot Kilbride, accomplished ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) professional, who has built a reputation for success in the financial services and energy sectors.
    • Chantal Davies, Professor of Law, Equality and Diversity in the School of Law and Social Justice at the University of Chester.

    All businesses and organisations, large and small are welcome, and can sign up and find out more on the University of Chester Survive or Thrive conference web page. The event runs from 10am to 4pm at the University of Chester, Riverside Innovation Centre, 1 Castle Drive, Chester, CH1 1SL.

    All income generated from the event will be used to support sustainability projects and activities developed and delivered by University of Chester students.

  • Share Green Expo 2024 in Grosvenor Park 15-16 June 2024 is part of Chester Green Weekend on Facebook Share Green Expo 2024 in Grosvenor Park 15-16 June 2024 is part of Chester Green Weekend on Twitter Share Green Expo 2024 in Grosvenor Park 15-16 June 2024 is part of Chester Green Weekend on Linkedin Email Green Expo 2024 in Grosvenor Park 15-16 June 2024 is part of Chester Green Weekend link

    Green Expo 2024 in Grosvenor Park 15-16 June 2024 is part of Chester Green Weekend

    by Jane Harrad-Roberts, Project Director, Green Expo 2025, about 2 years ago

    It's the national Great Big Green Week and Chester is making a difference with its Chester Green Weekend. Green Expo UK will be organising the Youth Conference, Photo Competition and hosting the Innovation Zone at Grosvenor Park in Chester!

    Green Expo highlights and showcases what has been achieved in the region on progress to Net Zero and climate change and how it will impact the way we live, work and play.

    The Green Expo Photo Competition is open for entries now until May 31st. Open for all ages and abilities, the competition will focus on positive Green... Continue reading

    It's the national Great Big Green Week and Chester is making a difference with its Chester Green Weekend. Green Expo UK will be organising the Youth Conference, Photo Competition and hosting the Innovation Zone at Grosvenor Park in Chester!

    Green Expo highlights and showcases what has been achieved in the region on progress to Net Zero and climate change and how it will impact the way we live, work and play.

    The Green Expo Photo Competition is open for entries now until May 31st. Open for all ages and abilities, the competition will focus on positive Green achievements for the region. The winning photos will be on display in Chester Cathedral.

    The Green Expo Youth Conference, June 14th (Friday) is FREE for school and college students and will be held at the University of Chester. Over 100 attendees will participate in workshops and careers discussions with local employers about the future of green jobs in the region.

    The Green Expo Exposition, June 15-16 (Sat.-Sun.) in Grosvenor Park, Chester CH1 1QQ is back for a third year bigger and better as the Innovation Zone at Chester Green Weekend. It is FREE for anyone to attend and organised in conjunction with Chester based Eco Communities UK and Chester GAS.

    Join us over a weekend filled with exciting eco-friendly exhibits, insightful talks, and opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals. Whether you're passionate about sustainability, interested in renewable energy, or just curious about living a greener lifestyle, this event is for you! Come and explore the latest in green technology, eco-friendly products, and innovative solutions.

    Please visit our website greenexpo.uk to get in touch with us if you want to exhibit your green initiatives at one of our Green Expo Innovation Zone Gazebos. Energy, Travel & Transport, Conservation, Net Zero, Waste and Circular Economy...

    The Green Expo Awards Dinner will be held on November 14th to recognise organisations who are making outstanding progress towards a greener future.

  • Share Chesters First Luggage Rummage 15th & 16th June, on Facebook Share Chesters First Luggage Rummage 15th & 16th June, on Twitter Share Chesters First Luggage Rummage 15th & 16th June, on Linkedin Email Chesters First Luggage Rummage 15th & 16th June, link

    Chesters First Luggage Rummage 15th & 16th June,

    by Eco Communities, about 2 years ago


    Grosvenor Park 11am – 4pm

    Spaces are £10 a day.

    Eco Communities the team that bring the Sustainable Cheshire Fair to Grosvenor Park each year are bringing you a Luggage Rummage as part of Chester Green Weekend, Like a car boot sale only this one is more eco. For only £10, you can bring up to two suitcases filled with your pre-loved or homemade items. Set up a picnic blanket and start selling your goods!

    Many people are becoming more conscious of their impact on the environment and are looking for ways to live more sustainably. One way to do... Continue reading


    Grosvenor Park 11am – 4pm

    Spaces are £10 a day.

    Eco Communities the team that bring the Sustainable Cheshire Fair to Grosvenor Park each year are bringing you a Luggage Rummage as part of Chester Green Weekend, Like a car boot sale only this one is more eco. For only £10, you can bring up to two suitcases filled with your pre-loved or homemade items. Set up a picnic blanket and start selling your goods!

    Many people are becoming more conscious of their impact on the environment and are looking for ways to live more sustainably. One way to do this is by buying and selling second-hand items, which not only reduces waste but also saves resource and energy that would be used to create new products.

    Book your stall ----BOOK

    Book to come to Chester Green Weekend - BOOK TO ATTEND THE EVENT AND GET UPDATES

  • Share Free Dr Bike Check - Chester Townhall Square on Saturday 20th April 2024 on Facebook Share Free Dr Bike Check - Chester Townhall Square on Saturday 20th April 2024 on Twitter Share Free Dr Bike Check - Chester Townhall Square on Saturday 20th April 2024 on Linkedin Email Free Dr Bike Check - Chester Townhall Square on Saturday 20th April 2024 link

    Free Dr Bike Check - Chester Townhall Square on Saturday 20th April 2024

    about 2 years ago

    Chester Cycling Campaign, with the Bike Factory, will be offering a Dr Bike service at the Taste Cheshire Farmers Market in Chester Town Hall Square on Saturday, 20 April.

    Services are available between 9am - 4pm.

    Please book online: Free Dr Bike Check - Chester Townhall Square Saturday 20th April 2024 Tickets, Sat, Apr 20, 2024 at 9:00 AM | Eventbrite

    Please arrive with your bicycle at the allotted booking time to avoid delay and disappointment. Please be prepared to wait while you bicycle is attended to, so that it can be taken away once the Dr Bike check has... Continue reading

    Chester Cycling Campaign, with the Bike Factory, will be offering a Dr Bike service at the Taste Cheshire Farmers Market in Chester Town Hall Square on Saturday, 20 April.

    Services are available between 9am - 4pm.

    Please book online: Free Dr Bike Check - Chester Townhall Square Saturday 20th April 2024 Tickets, Sat, Apr 20, 2024 at 9:00 AM | Eventbrite

    Please arrive with your bicycle at the allotted booking time to avoid delay and disappointment. Please be prepared to wait while you bicycle is attended to, so that it can be taken away once the Dr Bike check has been completed. There will be no bicycle storage space.

  • Share Get involved in Chester Green Weekend on Facebook Share Get involved in Chester Green Weekend on Twitter Share Get involved in Chester Green Weekend on Linkedin Email Get involved in Chester Green Weekend link

    Get involved in Chester Green Weekend

    by Eco Communities, about 2 years ago



    Helen Tandy, Director, Eco Communities

    As an Ambassador for Chester Great and Small, we decided to bring some existing events together under ‘Chester Green Weekend’ as part of the national Great Big Green Week (GBGW), something we have supported since its launch by The Climate Coalition.

    Our event brings together various sustainable activities, including AT Fest, Green Expo and our Sustainable Cheshire Fair which has moved with GBGW to June from September. With the fantastic help of We love Good Times and Reasonably Good.

    You still have time to take part, we are looking for activities, workshops, walks... Continue reading



    Helen Tandy, Director, Eco Communities

    As an Ambassador for Chester Great and Small, we decided to bring some existing events together under ‘Chester Green Weekend’ as part of the national Great Big Green Week (GBGW), something we have supported since its launch by The Climate Coalition.

    Our event brings together various sustainable activities, including AT Fest, Green Expo and our Sustainable Cheshire Fair which has moved with GBGW to June from September. With the fantastic help of We love Good Times and Reasonably Good.

    You still have time to take part, we are looking for activities, workshops, walks, stalls, food and entertainment to take place all within the walkable City of Chester. The weekend event we want to be free to attend, although some special activities can include a charge, such as work shops.

    Many people are becoming more conscious of their impact on the environment and are looking for ways to live more sustainably. One way to do this is by buying and selling second-hand items, which not only reduces waste but also saves resource and energy that would be used to create new products.

    One way to do this is by buying and selling second-hand items, which not only reduces waste but also saves resource and energy that would be used to create new products.

    Do you have any pre loved items at home you want to pass on? Why not take part in our first Luggage Rummage… A great push for a bit of a home declutter as well…

    We will be distributing 10,000 copies of a special Chester Green Weekend Map. See example of an existing We Love Good Times Map. to promote the event in the run up.

    We are fully committed to promoting and bringing more people into Chester, engaging them with the Climate Emergency and the fantastic sustainable businesses, projects and organisations in our region.

    With activities in Grosvenor Park, Town Hall Square and at the Oh Design Foundation we have so much going on.

    We have space for more businesses and organisations. It would be great if you would get involved:

    Financially (support our Crowdfunder )

    – Organising an activity whether in your business premises or in Grosvenor Park (BOOK A STALL)

    – Promoting the event to your contacts.

    - Get your ticket early -- (BOOK)

    Read more on our Crowdfunding Page, any questions email the team office@sustainablecheshire.uk



  • Share Navigating Net Zero event - Thursday, 28 March 2024 on Facebook Share Navigating Net Zero event - Thursday, 28 March 2024 on Twitter Share Navigating Net Zero event - Thursday, 28 March 2024 on Linkedin Email Navigating Net Zero event - Thursday, 28 March 2024 link

    Navigating Net Zero event - Thursday, 28 March 2024

    about 2 years ago

    Groundwork, in partnership with Cheshire West & Chester Council, is hosting a "Navigating Net Zero" event in Ellesmere Port. Join us to learn about Net Zero, carbon reduction solutions, and available Grant support.


    When: Thursday, 28th March 2024

    Where: Sustainability House, Cheshire College, Ellesmere Port Campus

    Achieving Net Zero is an important step for the future of businesses to align with global efforts to address climate change. Businesses that embrace sustainability are likely to be better positioned for success in a rapidly changing and environmentally conscious global landscape. But what does that mean for you and your business, how can... Continue reading

    Groundwork, in partnership with Cheshire West & Chester Council, is hosting a "Navigating Net Zero" event in Ellesmere Port. Join us to learn about Net Zero, carbon reduction solutions, and available Grant support.


    When: Thursday, 28th March 2024

    Where: Sustainability House, Cheshire College, Ellesmere Port Campus

    Achieving Net Zero is an important step for the future of businesses to align with global efforts to address climate change. Businesses that embrace sustainability are likely to be better positioned for success in a rapidly changing and environmentally conscious global landscape. But what does that mean for you and your business, how can you make a positive action plan and what support is available to achieve Net Zero goals?

    Join us for our bite-sized breakfast event available for local businesses to learn how to navigate the Net Zero landscape and future-proof your business through sustainability actions. Through the Race to Zero project with Cheshire West & Chester Council Groundwork’s Sustainable Business Consultants will dive into detail of what Net Zero means for businesses, solutions and technologies available to reduce carbon emissions and what financial support is available to help.

    In addition to Groundwork Consultants, we’ll also be hearing from our hosts at Cheshire College who will be talking us through their sustainability journey. They will be taking us through what they have done so far, including the creation of their Sustainability House, and their plans for the future.

    We look forward to seeing you there.

    Event agenda:

    Attendee Arrival: 9 – 9:30am

    Welcome: Cheshire West and Chester Council (9:30am)

    Session 1: Understanding Net Zero (9:35am)

    Session 2: Low and zero carbon technologies to tackle scope 1 & 2 emissions (9:50am).

    Session 3: Importance of Science-Based Targets (10am)

    Session 4: Cheshire College – Journey towards their sustainability (10:10am)

    Session 5: Grants for Net Zero Investment (10:20am)

    Session 6: Audience Q&A Session 10:30am

    Attendee departure 10:45 – 11am

    Limited spaces available. RSVP now:

    https://groundworksbs.org.uk/join-us-navigating-net-zero-event-cheshire/

    Don't miss out on this opportunity to drive sustainability in your business!

  • Share Take part in Earth Hour 2024 on Facebook Share Take part in Earth Hour 2024 on Twitter Share Take part in Earth Hour 2024 on Linkedin Email Take part in Earth Hour 2024 link

    Take part in Earth Hour 2024

    about 2 years ago
    Text reads 60 Earth Hour

    Every year, millions of people around the world come together, at 8.30pm local time on the a Saturday in March, to observe Earth Hour, a symbolic event that highlights the importance of environmental conservation and sustainable living.

    Since its creation in 2007, Earth Hour, which is organised by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), has been known for its “lights off” moment. As landmarks and homes across the world switch off, supporters are also invited to symbolically switch off and 'Give an hour for Earth’, spending 60 minutes doing something - anything - positive for our planet. In 2023, over 410,000... Continue reading

    Every year, millions of people around the world come together, at 8.30pm local time on the a Saturday in March, to observe Earth Hour, a symbolic event that highlights the importance of environmental conservation and sustainable living.

    Since its creation in 2007, Earth Hour, which is organised by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), has been known for its “lights off” moment. As landmarks and homes across the world switch off, supporters are also invited to symbolically switch off and 'Give an hour for Earth’, spending 60 minutes doing something - anything - positive for our planet. In 2023, over 410,000 hours were given to our planet by supporters in 190 countries and territories, representing 90% of the planet, making it the Biggest Hour for Earth.

    This year Earth Hour takes place on Saturday, 23 March. Cheshire West and Chester Council will be participating in this year’s event by turning off the lights on a number of landmarks and buildings across the area, including the lights on the Eastgate Clock in Chester.


    Ideas for taking part

    As well as turning off non-essential lights at home WWF has developed the Hour Bank, a new online interactive tool, to help everyone, everywhere to find the most enjoyable ways to give an hour for Earth. Whether it is a mindful walk through the woods to bask in the smell of air, feel the earth, and take in the sounds or engaging in a home scavenger hunt to identify and swap out unsustainable products with eco-friendly alternatives, there are myriad options to choose from.

    The Hour Bank provides a list of activities and events based on participants' lifestyle interests and preferences, from food and fitness to art and entertainment.

    For inspiration visit the WWF Hour Bank.



    Playing our part every day

    While Earth Hour is a great event that shows global unity in the fight against climate change, it is important that we can continue this momentum to help protect the planet throughout the year. By incorporating eco-friendly actions into our daily lives, we can all contribute to building a more healthy and sustainable future for our planet. Whether it's reducing our energy use, minimising waste, or planting a tree, every action, no matter how small, has the potential to make a difference.

    Share what you are doing for Earth Hour and beyond on the ‘Your Story’ section of the Climate Emergency Inspire hub.

  • Share Cheshire garage wins TotalEnergies ‘Fit for the Future’ award 2023 with solar and forestry initiatives on Facebook Share Cheshire garage wins TotalEnergies ‘Fit for the Future’ award 2023 with solar and forestry initiatives on Twitter Share Cheshire garage wins TotalEnergies ‘Fit for the Future’ award 2023 with solar and forestry initiatives on Linkedin Email Cheshire garage wins TotalEnergies ‘Fit for the Future’ award 2023 with solar and forestry initiatives link

    Cheshire garage wins TotalEnergies ‘Fit for the Future’ award 2023 with solar and forestry initiatives

    about 2 years ago

    TotalEnergies Marketing UK has announce that Mill Lane Garage in Frodsham has been named the winner of its inaugural Fit for the Future award.

    The award was launched in late 2023 to recognise and reward independent workshops who are evolving their businesses as part of the decarbonisation of the automotive industry and the transition to more sustainable mobility.

    Eligible garages could either enter themselves for the award, or be nominated by a customer or supplier.

    Entries were assessed by a panel of judges including automotive experts from TotalEnergies’ lubricants division and Adam Beswick, head of category for Lubricants and... Continue reading

    TotalEnergies Marketing UK has announce that Mill Lane Garage in Frodsham has been named the winner of its inaugural Fit for the Future award.

    The award was launched in late 2023 to recognise and reward independent workshops who are evolving their businesses as part of the decarbonisation of the automotive industry and the transition to more sustainable mobility.

    Eligible garages could either enter themselves for the award, or be nominated by a customer or supplier.

    Entries were assessed by a panel of judges including automotive experts from TotalEnergies’ lubricants division and Adam Beswick, head of category for Lubricants and Filtration at Alliance Automotive Group - the second largest distributor of passenger and commercial vehicle parts to the independent automotive aftermarket in Europe.

    Garages entering the award were judged against three core criteria:

    • Carbon saving (immediate / long term)
    • Biodiversity impact (Local or commercial)
    • Innovation, ambition, and inspiration

    Mill Lane Garage, located in Kingsley, near Frodsham impressed the panel with its investment in solar panels which has significantly reduced grid energy consumption and moved the business on to a more sustainable footing.

    At the same time, Mill Lane has made a major contribution to the local environment and carbon capture by working with The Mersey Forest to plant 4,000 trees on land adjacent to the garage – which proprietor PJ Starkey notes has been particularly well received by customers.

    Winning the Fit for the Future award, Mill Lane was provided a £5,000 prize bundle by TotalEnergies to help the business continue on its journey towards net zero.

    David Valentyne, Business Development Manager at TotalEnergies Marketing UK, said:

    “First and foremost a big thank you to all of the workshops who submitted or were nominated for the TotalEnergies UK Fit for the Future Award. We saw some brilliant examples of practical sustainability in action and choosing a winner was not at all straightforward.

    “Mill Lane Garage is a shining example of an independent workshop committed to sustainability, demonstrating dedication to reducing its environmental impact and embracing good practices to support decarbonisation.

    "In today's challenging economic and political climate, it is inspiring to see independent workshops like Mill Lane Garage taking proactive measures to become more sustainable. Their commitment to reducing their environmental footprint is not only commendable but also essential for the future of the automotive industry, with bold steps needed to mitigate and manage the environmental impact of motoring as we transition towards decarbonised mobility. We are proud to recognize Mill Lane Garage's leadership and applaud their efforts in inspiring others to follow suit."

    PJ Starkey, owner of Mill Lane Garage said:

    “We wanted to do anything we could to improve sustainability especially as we’re in a trade which by its nature is a hostile environment for the planet and nature. Customers comment on the trees all the time as they are very visible and a big project. Our solar panels are behind the scenes so people may not recognise they’re there and what they do, but they have enabled us to make real energy savings – which both has saved us money as a business when bills are going up as well as making our energy usage more green.”


  • Share Watch Six Inches of Soil documentary film at Chester Picturehouse on Facebook Share Watch Six Inches of Soil documentary film at Chester Picturehouse on Twitter Share Watch Six Inches of Soil documentary film at Chester Picturehouse on Linkedin Email Watch Six Inches of Soil documentary film at Chester Picturehouse link

    Watch Six Inches of Soil documentary film at Chester Picturehouse

    over 2 years ago
    Picture of animals grazing between solar panels

    Picturehouse Green Screen is proud to present Six Inches of Soil, touring our sites with a live panel conversation following the film.

    Six Inches of Soil tells the inspiring story of young, British farmers standing up against the industrial food system and transforming the way they produce food, in order to heal the soil, our health and provide for local communities.


    Half the food we eat in the UK is produced by about 180,000 farmers, who manage 70 per cent of our land. Current ‘industrial' mainstream farming practices significantly contribute to soil degradation, biodiversity loss and climate change.... Continue reading

    Picturehouse Green Screen is proud to present Six Inches of Soil, touring our sites with a live panel conversation following the film.

    Six Inches of Soil tells the inspiring story of young, British farmers standing up against the industrial food system and transforming the way they produce food, in order to heal the soil, our health and provide for local communities.


    Half the food we eat in the UK is produced by about 180,000 farmers, who manage 70 per cent of our land. Current ‘industrial' mainstream farming practices significantly contribute to soil degradation, biodiversity loss and climate change. Regenerative farming practices, (within an agroecological system) promote healthier soils, provide healthier, affordable food, restore biodiversity and sequester carbon.

    The film is a story of three new farmers on the first year of their regenerative journey to heal the soil and help transform the food system - Anna Jackson, an eleventh-generation Lincolnshire arable and sheep farmer; Adrienne Gordon, a Cambridgeshire small-scale vegetable farmer; and Ben Thomas, who rears pasture fed beef cattle in Cornwall.

    As the trio of young farmers strive to adopt regenerative practices and create viable businesses, they meet seasoned mentors who help them on their journey. They are joined by other experts providing wisdom and solutions from a growing movement of people who are dedicated to changing the trajectory for food, farming and the planet.

    Green Screen is a safe space to discuss the issues raised by environmental films, and to meet other interested community members. Join the filmmakers, local activists, and more for discussions that will carry on past the end of the panel – everyone is invited to stay in the cinema's bar or cafe to connect, and enjoy a free tea or filter coffee when you bring a keep cup!

    Read more and book a ticket on the Picturehouse website.

    Find out more about Six Inches of Soil.