by Angela Cotton
Keen to slow down global warming? If so, you may be interested in joining an innovative ecogroup being launched in Swaythling. Based on the Cool Communities programme developed by the Winchester Action on Climate Change (WinACC), the aim is for multiple households to collectively reduce the carbon dioxide arising from their homes and activities over 8-10 weeks by 2500kg. Householders will meet 4-5 times at fortnightly intervals to benchmark and discuss individual carbon footprints, lifestyles, households and communities, sharing ideas on how to cut energy (and bills). Co-Director of WinACC, Richard Blackman, says, “The Cool Communities programme has been trialled in both Winchester and Southampton and the results show that when individuals act collectively, they can make a significant difference.” Whether you’ve already spent time lowering your carbon footprint or are new to the EcoGroup concept, local group lead Diane Chamberlain in Bassett Green Rd would welcome your support. Contact Diane on 07471932433 or email: dipiper101@hotmail.com (please put “ECOGROUP” in the subject line to avoid landing in the spam folder).