A 'lively' launch for Mortimer greening event

Mortimer is proud to report that the first phase of its greening initiative – launched on Saturday, January 14 – was "lively" and "informative" for members of the local community.

Attendees enjoyed hearing useful tips and information about how they could be more sustainable in their daily lives, especially at a time of soaring energy prices.

The event relayed its crucial message through a variety of media, including theatrical entertainment, fun information boards, interactive discussions and a display of energy saving provided by a local hardware store.

Guests were told about eight challenges, agreed at a previous public meeting, which they could use in their daily routines to save money and reduce their CO2 emissions.

One of the challenges, Turn Your Thermostat Down by one degree, was enacted by Mortimer Scouts and Cubs with a "hilarious" 'putting on jumpers to keep warm' race, followed with a "stunning" performance of the Hurst Singers, who had rewritten lyrics to include the challenges.

The Experience Exchange – where residents and experts could exchange their experiences and knowledge of new green technologies – proved "immensely popular" and the organisers thank everyone who contributed their time and knowledge.

To learn how well insulated houses are, using a camera on loan to Mortimer Parish Council, thermal imaging was also on offer at no cost and gained a high interest.

Every house in Mortimer has now received information on Greening Mortimer, the Challenge Card and a length of biodegradable green ribbon.

If residents accept the challenges, they will display the card in their window and tie the green ribbon to their front door/hedge/gate to show their support.

From the number of cards displayed, the organisers will understand how much CO2 the community could stop being released into the atmosphere if it continued to employ these simple changes on a daily basis.

Dependent on the outcome of this first phase, the next phase will see the community working together to nurture its green spaces, make its homes more sustainable and to view its health and wellbeing in a changing climate to improve its overall carbon footprint.

The free, community-led initiative was hosted at Mortimer Methodist Church Hall from 2pm until 5pm.

Contact greeningmortimer@stratfield-mortimer.gov.uk for further information.