The Eco-Committee has been hard at work this Autumn, spearheading a series of initiatives focused on sustainability and environmental responsibility. The committee kicked off the term with a successful Halloween costume swap, contributing to the reduction of waste and promoting the importance of reusing items.

During the Halloween costume swap, 31 costumes were dropped off, and an impressive 18 found new homes, preventing them from ending up in landfills. The remaining costumes were thoughtfully donated to a local charity shop, extending their lifecycle and supporting a worthy cause.

Building on this success, the Eco-Committee organized a Welly swap, followed by a festive Christmas Jumper swap in December. These events not only provided an opportunity for community members to refresh their wardrobes sustainably but also highlighted the environmental impact of fast fashion and excessive consumerism.

The committee recognizes the increasing importance of rehoming items that are still in good condition, especially in the face of alarming statistics. In the UK alone, over 15 million tons of household items are sent to landfill each year. The Eco-Committee is committed to raising awareness about these issues and inspiring positive change within the community.

In addition to clothing swaps, the committee has been actively supporting local wildlife during the colder months. Birdfeeders have been regularly stocked with seeds and fat balls to provide vital nourishment for native small birds. With the reduction in natural habitats and hedgerows, ensuring a stable food supply is crucial for their well-being during winter.

Looking ahead, the Eco-Committee is gearing up for an exciting new project set to launch soon. Focused on reducing carbon emissions and promoting a healthier environment, the initiative aims to encourage parents to turn off their engines when waiting in the car park. The term for a running engine while parked is called idling, and it’s a practice that can significantly contribute to air pollution.

Shedding light on the issue, the committee shared a startling fact: an idling engine can produce up to twice as many exhaust emissions as an engine in motion. The release of small particles of black carbon from exhaust emissions poses health risks and contributes to climate change. The Eco-Committee is hopeful that this new project will inspire positive behavioral changes and contribute to a greener, healthier community.