Winchester Action on Climate Change
Posted by DavidM in WinAcc | 7 April 2008
As I mentioned previously this blog has largely been about making my lifestyle greener. But I've been thinking recently about getting involved more widely in environment issues.
So I went along to the open meeting for Winchester Action on Climate Change. I was a litte worried it would be directionless and just a talking shop but it was exactly the opposite.
I was told before it started that the chap running the meeting had a reputation for finishing on time, being positive and making it reasonably fun. And sure enough, they were right on every count. A review of plans to recruit 'low-carbon champions' with small team break-outs to provide feedback, one-minute overviews of each of the action groups and an opportunity to catch up with action group leaders.
I had a chat with the people running the communications and advice section. With my background in online and marketing it's the area where I could offer most. We had a good chat and although I had to stress that work is manic and I can't take too much on in the short term, I'm signed up to help however I can.
I'll also attend the workshops on becoming a low-carbon champion. It's not about being a zealot or a climate change bore but making a commitment to reducing your own carbon footprint (done that) and to running 90 minute workshops with the public to raise awareness and share learning (can do that).
Given that WinACC is bringing together a wide range of organisations - from Winchester City Council and Winchester University to Denplan and the local political parties - it could easily be a divided and unproductive group. However, the enthusiasm of the people and organisation by the leadership made me want to be part of it and I came away buzzing.
If you live in the Winchester area and want to know more or get involved, everything you need to know is on the WinACC website.
If you live further afield and would like to set up something similar, I'm sure WinACC would be delighted to share their learnings so far.
