Two free online events will welcome many Cumbrians into the new year with the chance to improve the energy efficiency of their homes and businesses.

The two webinars are being hosted by Cumbria Action for Sustainability (CAfS) in partnership with South Lakeland District Council (SLDC) but are open to anyone who feels that they could benefit from the advice on offer.

The first of the two events, Heat pumps for homeowners is taking place on 19 January at 6:30pm and is focused on the user experience of domestic heat pumps.

A heat pump is a device that transfers heat from a source (such as the air, ground, or water) to another location and they have been known for hugely increasing energy efficiency in a domestic setting.

Independent research has been undertaken on behalf of CAfS by Jessica Scott speaking with individuals who have had some experience with the technology. Whether they decided against it, are still considering, or have completed installation, individuals from the study will discuss the outcome on the webinar.

Low Carbon Communities manager at CAfS Molly Hogg said: “Navigating technologies like this can be extremely confusing for homeowners, especially when money is concerned.

“That’s why events like this are so important. They equip as many people as possible with the facts and the experiences of their peers to help them make the most informed decisions for their own home”.

The second event, Reducing the carbon output of your business is being held on 26 January at 10:00am and is directed at business owners who are unsure of how they can make their practices more environmentally friendly.

It will provide inspiration, guidance and support for our local traders to do their part in the fight against catastrophic climate change in a sustainable way that is conducive to business practice.

Joining the webinar will be representatives from Green Small Business, The University of Cumbria’s Eco Innovation team, the Lake District foundation, and Langdale Leisure- a business that has already made huge changes to reduce its environmental impact.

Councillor Robin Ashcroft, Portfolio Holder for Economy, Culture and Leisure, said: “Businesses in South Lakeland are renowned for the innovation and sense of community involvement and responsibility and will play a key role in responding to the climate emergency and building a more sustainable future.

“I urge any business looking for inspiration, guidance or support on how to play their part take part in this training.”

The events are part of a larger package of support being provided by CAfS in association with SLDC as part of their strategy to deal with the ongoing threat posed by the climate emergency.

Councillor Dyan Jones, SLDC’s Portfolio Holder for Climate Change and Localism, said: “Thinking globally and acting locally is key to everything we want to achieve through our Climate Change Action Plan.

“Working together is the only way we will achieve meaningful carbon reduction and combat the effects of climate change – and these training sessions provided by CAfS with support from SLDC is an excellent example of that.”

Anyone wishing to book onto the free events can do so at www.cafs. https://cafs.org.uk/events/

Images courtesy of Greenfields Penrith