While world leaders focus on their targets for COP26 (external link), our communities are working hard to do their bit. As a local authority, we're more than ready to help.
From reducing food waste and feeding those in need to our Naturalising The Borough projects, we're collectively driving the fight to tackle the climate emergency across Wigan Borough.
But it’s not all about new initiatives. Wigan Borough communities have been dedicated to looking after the environment for a long time.
Community action
We've had some many amazing volunteers taking part in litter picking, community growing and tree planting, all of which bring us closer to our goal of creating a cleaner, greener borough. All of these activities have increased during the pandemic and volunteer numbers are growing.
As a council, we continue to support projects such as Greenslate Community Farm to help our borough and beyond with the principles of regenerative agriculture and production of food in tune with the planet and nature.
Listening to you and sharing advice
As part of the Council’s corporate strategy review, the Big Listening Festival was created to focus on a number of core priorities across the borough. The Climate Week held in July 2021 gave a voice to our residents and communities who provided amazing insight on the climate emergency.
We now also have a dedicated Climate Response team with a number of environmental education officers, engagement and strategy officers focusing solely on the transition to Net Zero Carbon by 2038 or sooner. These officers add to the large number of internal staff on hand to support with community initiatives that tackle the climate emergency - whether that's through offering advice and support on educational matters, tips and tricks to tackle waste and pollution or advice on supporting local biodiversity.
Education is key
Education is also an essential part of all our work to tackle the climate emergency and we have amazing advocates in our communities dedicated to raising awareness on this global issue.
Consumer behaviour will eventually force the world’s largest suppliers of goods and services to adopt climate friendly practices. Communities are vital in leading by example and educating others on what can be done to reduce, reuse and recycle, and make sustainable choices when it comes to our travel, food, housing, and other consumer needs.
So, we are pleased to be launching the inaugural Go Green Week to bring together our communities far and wide and unite in our mission to fight climate change. Let the conversation and action begin!