Sharing ideas for a greener High Peak

Published on 4 November 2022

Groups and individuals with an interest in tackling climate change in High Peak came together to share information and ideas at an event organised by the Borough Council recently.

Those attending the event, in New Mills Town Hall, were offered advice and tips on saving energy and retro-fitting homes to help with energy efficiency; recycling and reducing waste and local repair cafes; and active travel to help reduce emissions from transport.

Volunteers and groups that have received grants from the Council's Climate Change Community Fund to support projects aimed at alleviating the effects of climate change also shared their experiences and ideas to inspire more people to take action.

Executive Councillor for Climate Change, Environment and Community Safety, Jean Todd, said: "Tackling climate change is one of the most pressing issues we face so it was great to see so many people at this event who all share the same aim of doing things that make a difference.

"No one individual, organisation or group can mitigate the impacts of our changing climate alone so it's up to each of us to do what we can in our everyday lives. I was inspired to hear from people across the High Peak about what they are doing, and to learn from the experiences of others, and I know people attending this event found that valuable too.

"Of course, the Council has a responsibility to act and there is much we are doing to make sure our services and activities have minimal effect on our environment. You can read more about what we're doing both in our own right, and to support our communities in their efforts, on our website."

Some of the schemes being delivered by the Council include retro-fitting the least energy efficient Council homes; applying for funding to help those on lower incomes to install measures in their homes; and bidding for funds to help rural businesses reduce their impact on the environment.

You can read more at www.highpeak.gov.uk/ClimateChange

The Council's Climate Change Community Fund provides small grants to encourage volunteers to work together and empower individuals and communities to take actions which:

·       Reduce local CO2 and other greenhouse gas emissions

·       Increase the ability of nature to absorb and store emissions

·       Build resilience in nature to mitigate the impact of climate change

Successful applicants have included projects to work with households to reduce energy use in Hayfield; and to support the High Peak Baby Bank which helps young families whilst saving valuable resources by reusing good quality baby equipment.

Projects to encourage growing of vegetables in schools and allotments and upcycling materials have also received grants.

Applications for this current round of grants are now being invited before the deadline of 20 November.

Find out more at www.highpeak.gov.uk/CommunityClimateChangeFund