What steps have been taken during 2010 which have brought us a little closer towards achieving a sustainable future for South Wiltshire? Here are 10 positive news stories for 2010:
Photovoltaics, Bikeabiltiy, School vegetable gardens, Fairtrade Diocese, community orchards and more……
Read about them and how we plan to build on these in 2011.
1. Local people take up new Clean Energy cash- back scheme & feed-in tariffs for PV solar panels.
Anyone planning to take this up needs to act sooner rather than later to get the full benefit, the rate will fall year on year from April 2012. If sufficient numbers install PV in one area a discount can be earned.
Watch this space for full details of one couple’s experience of going solar – coming shortly.
2011 – aim to get 100 local clean energy generators and earn a discount.
2. Wiltshire Council. Wiltshire signed up to 10:10, a commitment to reduce carbon emissions by 10% in 2010. What they say: “Over the course of the next two years, we will develop and implement a climate change action plan. The action plan will address energy reduction across all areas of the wider community and our own estate.”
2011 – ensure a greater level of commitment through the developing Parish Plans.
3. Say No to Plastic Bags WE DID! SCRAP’s shop survey in the city found that most retailers are interested in reducing their plastic bag use by asking customers if they need a bag rather than automatically giving them one, using biodegradable bags or charging for bags.
2011 -The environmental concern is evident; can we translate this into a strong commitment to make Salisbury PBF?
4. Fairtrade Diocese. In April 2010 the Diocese of Salisbury was recognised as a Fairtrade Diocese, marking the commitment of over half of parishes in the Diocese to using and promoting Fairtrade products.
2011- can we persuade Wiltshire to become a Fairtrade County?
5. River Bourne Community Farm goes from strength to strength with sustainable, traditional farming on our doorstep and extensive community involvement.
2011- add to Salisbury’s network of natural green spaces and wildlife corridors. Set up a Salisbury Greenspace Alliance to co-ordinate management for the benefit of wildlife and people.
6. Local Food. Growing interest in allotments, community gardens and orchards. River Bourne Community Farm sells eggs and meat from the farm, Martin Future Farms opens a shop in the village, Tisbury Community Allotment makes a profit, and Downton holds an Apple Day.
2011- Community Orchards to be planted in Salisbury’s Parks, firstly in Fisherton and Bishopdown. If successful these will be followed by other areas throughout the city.
7. Cycling. 100s of children in Salisbury and the surrounding area receive level 3 Bikeability training.
2011 - achieve first steps towards Connect 2 cycle link between Wilton and Alderbury.
8. Schools. More schools develop outdoor classrooms with ponds, native hedges, wildflower meadows and vegetable gardens. Children grow their own vegetables, learn about composting and harvest their produce for school dinners.
2011- increase the number of Eco-schools in South Wiltshire, acheive more safe routes to school for walking and cycling and encourage energy saving through the WC Climate Change Schools officer.
9. Launch of Green Café and Green Drinks. This initiative, started in October, has brought more of those interested in ‘green’ issues together for informal discussion. Go to ‘Events and Meetings’ for future dates.
10. Membership. SWA21 membership reached 100 individuals and organisations.
2011 –aim to attract more young people.
If you know of other good things that have, or are happening why not send them in via our contact address. They can then be posted on the website and more people can hear about them.
