Community Engagement and Education
This winter, more people than ever are sadly living in fuel poverty. At the same time, energy used to heat and power buildings accounts for 81% of the borough's greenhouse gas emissions meaning that reducing individual energy consumption plays a critical role in meeting Merton's emission targets.
Our Energy Team was on a mission to help people reduce their energy usage, which can also save a lot of £££! These Champions developed numerous resources to enable behaviour changes including blogs on electric cars, the fuel poverty crisis, and an incredible eco home. They also published the inspiring Energy Saving Handbook which summarises actions people can take, big and small.
“Being a Community Champion 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.”
Anca - Sustainable Merton Community Champion, Energy Team
COP26: Mobilising our Community to Respond to the Climate Emergency
We also focused our two COP26 activities around the theme of Energy. On November 3 we held a virtual Community Climate Conference which was attended by over 40 Merton residents including several Councillors. Thanks to Councillor Martin Whelton for the shout out on Twitter! “Some very engaging debate at the #MertonClimateConference and thanks to @SustainableMert for organising and the work that they do in helping us work towards net zero. #COP26”.
We also held an Energy Saver Pop Up event to help residents reduce their energy usage. Our Champions created a stunning cardboard “house” art piece for this event and we showcased our Energy Saving Handbook to over 30 residents.
If you are interested in becoming a Community Champion, please visit sustainablemerton.org/champions
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