Press Release
27.10.2021
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Energy and COP26: Mobilising our Community to Respond to the Climate Emergency
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Sustainable Merton, Merton’s local environmental charity, is excited to be hosting the borough’s first Community Climate Conference which will take place online on 3rd November, 1 - 2.30pm, during the COP26 UN Climate Change Conference - the most ambitious climate summit ever.
Energy used to heat and power buildings accounts for 81% of Merton’s greenhouse gas emissions. This event will see community leaders come together to discuss how we can mobilise Merton residents and businesses to be more energy conscious and save money in the process, and the steps councils and national government can take to address fuel poverty and enable residents to heat their homes more efficiently.
COP26 comes at a crucial time. The recent energy crisis has shown that the price of our energy is far from secure and consumers are facing the reality of higher energy prices and a greater prevalence of fuel poverty. This year, we have also seen unprecedented heatwaves and flooding across the UK, affecting people, homes and businesses in Merton. And this is just the tip of the iceberg.
Over the coming years, we believe the UK needs to change how it uses energy while ensuring that this transition is inclusive for everyone. As many countries look to build back better in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, Boris Johnson and other world leaders must take ambitious action. At the local level, Sustainable Merton will continue to position itself at the heart of climate action in the borough, through leadership, partnership and community engagement and action.
Register now to join Sustainable Merton’s Community Climate Conference and be part of the conversation! Visit sustainablemerton.org/events to book your place.
Diana Sterck, CEO of Sustainable Merton said: “We are at a crucial moment in time when we need to change from traditional gas and electric heating. I would love to see government information and support that helps people and businesses navigate their way to adopt green energy solutions.”
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Toby Costin, Director of CREW Energy commented: “We have a short window to avert a climate disaster and each and every one of us must act. Our gas boilers emit 2.8 tonnes of carbon a year and our cars 1.4 tonnes. An average meat diet is another 2 tonnes. And that is before we get to consumerism. In total the average person in the UK will generate 12.8 tonnes a year. Yes, we would like the Government and councils to do more, but we need to start at home. Let's start the journey together.”
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Anca Tacu, Sustainable Merton Community Champion added: “Being a Community Champion (volunteer) has enabled me to help Sustainable Merton inspire a more sustainable lifestyle at a local level, while learning how this can contribute to the systemic change our society needs to address the pressing challenges of the global climate crisis.”
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For further information please contact:
Rachael Edwards - Community Champions Project Manager, Sustainable Merton
e: rachael@sustainablemerton.org
About Sustainable Merton
Sustainable Merton is mobilising Merton's community to respond to the climate emergency and improving health and wellbeing in Merton without compromising our planet. Projects led by Sustainable Merton integrate environmental and social goals, broadening the reach and benefits of taking environmental action within the community, including fostering a sense of community; reducing social isolation; connecting people to nature for health; and reducing food poverty. The charity's projects include managing two food growing spaces, local Community Fridges, litter picking, tackling plastic pollution, promoting active travel, and engaging with community groups, delivered through a network of over 200 passionate volunteer Community Champions working collaboratively.
Find out more
www.sustainablemerton.org
Twitter (@SustainableMert) | Facebook (Sustainable Merton) | Instagram (@sustainablemerton)
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