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Climate Change & Sustainability

 A Climate Change & Sustainability Fair was held at St Andrew’s Methodist Church, Sheringham on Saturday 20^th April 2024. The event was organised by representatives from the Churches, Sheringham Town Council and interested members of the public.   The aim was to encourage people to learn more about how we can live more simply and sustainably to help save our planet.  Every visitor was offered a free low energy lightbulb.

 

The event was officially opened by the Mayor of Sheringham, Cllr Peter Ratcliffe who said it was a privilege to open such an event.  During his short speech, he highlighted the work of the Council’s Climate & Community Committee, chaired by Martin Langsdon who was present and seeking consultation and conversation with those living in the town as to how we could work together to improve climate change locally.

 

There were various ‘stalls’ staffed by groups such as CAFOD, Sheringham Community Fridge, Edwina Textiles, North Norfolk District Council, Sheringham Town Council, Fairtrade, The All Natural Company.  Other exhibitors invited the visitors to take part in quizzes and demonstrated how to recycle clothing and greetings cards.   One exhibitor said ‘It was good to be among people of like-mind and to have a meaningful conversation’

‘Is plastic fantastic or drastic? was the theme of one quiz with some shocking answers. Those taking part were challenged, among other things, to join a local group – eg Sheringham Plastic Aware or Surfers against Sewage and to consider being part of the monthly Beach Clean in Sheringham – the next being on Sunday 12^th May 10am outside the Tidal Wave café with Bob Smith who has been involved in this clean for 23 years!

 Another quiz invited participants to list in order of priority the top 10 individual actions which can be taken to reduce the impact on climate change.

 Pupils from the Sheringham Community Primary School produced some excellent sculptures, paintings and poems with the School choir entertaining everyone with some very enthusiastic singing.  One adult remarked ‘I learned a lot from the young people I spoke with.  They know more about climate change than I do.’

During the day, soundbite presentations took place ably led by Alison Webster.  Speakers spoke on various topics followed by questions and discussion –

·       Cllr. Adam Varley - Cabinet member for Net Zero and Climate Change – North Norfolk District Council

  Carole Thomas –   'Reducing the global footprint of your wardrobe

 ·       Paul Newman –     ‘The Renewable way’ & composting

 ·       Alicia Hull –      ‘Citizen Network’ & her book ‘It’s All Up to Us Now’

 ·       Martin Langsdon – Chair of Climate & Community Committee –  Sheringham Town Council

Jane Crone who represents CAFOD for the region commented on ‘the sense of community and sense of purpose I experienced in Sheringham’ with Deputy Mayor of Sheringham Town Council, Cllr Sue Brisbane noting ‘there was a buzz about the place’.

 The day was much enhanced by delicious cakes and soup provided by friends and Marina Baker, ably supported by her son Charlie.

 It is hoped the day will inspire those who attended to support the Sustainable Saturday held on the 2^nd Saturday of the month at the Friends Meeting House, Cremer Street, Sheringham, NR26 8DL commencing with coffee and cake at 10.30am followed by a talk and discussion at 11am.  The morning is rounded off by home-made soup being on offer.