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  • Contract: Environmental trainer/auditor for schools

    Contract: Environmental trainer/auditor for schools

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    Closing date: 10am on Tuesday 4 January 2022

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    We are looking for a talented trainer / auditor that will help school children undertake environmental audits of their schools. This will involve advising the children on the topics and providing training and support to help them carry-out the review/audit. Following the audits you will also provide advice and support to school children and teachers to help them implement some or all of the recommendations.

    Cumbria Action for Sustainability (CAfS) is seeking to appoint a small number of environmental trainers/auditors to support the delivery of our Greener Schools project.

    We will accept applications from both individuals and organisations. The successful applicants will work as contractors over an 8 month period. (Jan 2022 – Aug 2022)

    CAfS strives to be diverse and inclusive in all aspects of our work. We value different perspectives and backgrounds on the team and amongst contractors. The wellbeing of our staff is important and we are a flexible employer.

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    Role description

    If you prefer to download the role description and person specification, please use the link below:

    Environmental trainer/auditor for schools – Role Description

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    ABOUT CAFS:  

    Our vision is a zero-carbon Cumbria and we strive to bring about a better way of life, in balance with our environment.   

    Our mission is to empower and enable people, communities and businesses to live and work more sustainably by sharing our knowledge, practice, skills, networks and practical experience. We manage and deliver events, advice, training and practical projects across the county as well as providing specialist consultancy services to enable individuals, communities, businesses and local authorities to drive a shift towards a zero-carbon Cumbria.   

    Formed in 1998, CAfS is an award-winning charity with a team of 27 skilled staff, working with specialist contractors and volunteers to deliver a range of transformational low-carbon projects each year. CAfS is the leading organisation in Cumbria driving action on climate change and often serves as the first point of contact on sustainability. We co-chair the Zero Carbon Cumbria Partnership of more than 85 organisations working to reduce our county’s emissions.   

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    BACKGROUND TO THE GREENER SCHOOLS PROJECT:  

    The Greener Schools project will work with 16 primary and secondary schools, mainly in West Cumbria, providing school children with the skills and confidence to respond positively to the climate emergency, improve their environmental footprint and that of the school. 

    The project is funded by: 

    • The Walney Extension Community Fund 
    • Cumbria Community Foundation through the Transforming West Cumbria programme, funded by Sellafield Ltd, and  
    • #iwill, Fairfield Wind Farm Fund, Tallentire Wind Farm Fund, Winscales Wind Farm Fund through Cumbria Community Foundation. 

    The project will involve working with schools to identify their individual needs through an environmental audit/review, advising on solutions, and supporting new initiatives to reduce carbon emissions. Students will be trained in the skills needed to carry out a school environmental audit, will co-conduct the audit and report the results to the school. They will also be involved in deciding which actions should be taken and help to deliver these actions with teachers and others.  

    The target age group for this project is 10-14 (Years 6-9) but some flex on this is possible. 

    As well as reducing carbon emissions, the project will also improve the knowledge and confidence of young people about climate change and carbon resource efficiency and support the development of their research, analytical and other skills. It will introduce them to new career opportunities. 

       

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    OVERVIEW OF DELIVERY 

    Our Youth Projects Coordinator will have overall responsibility for generating demand and for allocating the work to the environmental trainers/auditors. 

    The environmental trainer/auditors will then help school children undertake environmental reviews/audits of their schools. This will involve advising the children on the topics which could be covered and providing training and support to help them carry-out the review/audit. It will also involve providing training and support to help the school children and the staff take forward some or all of the recommendations.  

       

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    SERVICES TO BE DELIVERED BY THE ENVIRONMENTAL TRAINERS / AUDITORS 

    • Deliver advice, training and support to school children to enable them to undertake an environmental review/audit of their school. This will involve:  
    • Advising them on the topics which could be covered. 
    • Responding to their requests for information or advice about the various topics. 
    • Providing guidance and associated training on the process for undertaking an environmental review/audit using other training materials which will be made available by CAfS. 
    • Providing on-site support to the school to undertake the review/audit using audit checklists which will be made available by CAfS. 
    • Helping the school children to collate the findings and recommendations arising from the review/audit. 
    • Provide advice and support to school children and teachers to help them implement some or all of the recommendations arising from the review/audit. This could involve: 
    • Helping to set up new systems and frameworks to improve student involvement.  
    • Advising on energy, water, waste, food, packaging, transport, nature or other environmental actions/projects which could be taken forward by the school. 
    • Providing training on particular environmental topics. 
    • Supporting young people to undertake assemblies or involve wider community. 

       

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    SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED 

    The environmental trainers/auditors are required to have the following skills, knowledge and experience  

    • Experience of undertaking environmental reviews/audits and knowledge of the topics which could be covered as part of environmental review/audit of a school, including an up-to-date knowledge of the low-carbon solutions which would be appropriate in such situations.  
    • Experience of working with young people and/or with schools. 
    • Excellent communication skills including the ability to communicate and develop effective working relations with children, young people, teachers and relevant stakeholders. 
    • Strong IT skills with the ability to use a comprehensive range of software (Microsoft Outlook, Excel, Word, PowerPoint and MS Teams).  
    • Understanding of and commitment to CAfS’ aims, values and objectives.  

       

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    OTHER REQUIREMENTS

    The environmental trainers/auditors will also be required to:

    • Respond rapidly and reliably to email communication from the Youth Projects Coordinator at CAfS about the availability to deliver the support and commit to deliver it once assigned.
    • Complete a feedback report after each review/audit and any follow-up projects using a template provided by CAfS.
    • Attend training provided by CAfS relating to the delivery of these services.
    • Contribute to the development, ongoing review and improvement of the review/audit checklists and any associated training materials.
    • Use the CAfS email address provided for all correspondence relating to the project.
    • Help build a strong, credible reputation for the support provided and for CAfS.
    • Adhere to relevant CAfS policies and procedures, including GDPR and safeguarding1.
    • Have a satisfactory DBS check before delivering the service.
    • Hold public liability (£5m) and professional indemnity (£1m) insurance by the time any delivery takes place.
    • Have a driving licence and access to car, or other means to travel independently around the county.

    Further information

    • CAfS will provide example checklists and other guidance to support delivery of the services. It might also be possible to provide access to thermal imaging cameras to help with the reviews and or follow-up projects.
    • We anticipate appointing 1 – 3 trainers to undertake the 16 reviews/audits and provide the associated training and follow-up support.
    • Fees for the reviews/audits will depend on the size of the school as indicated below:

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    Size of School Fees 

    (including any VAT) 

    		 Expected time involved* 
    Small Less than 150 pupils  £350  1 ½ – 2 ½ days 
    Medium 150 – 1,000 pupils  £450  2 – 3 days 
    Large More than 1,000 pupils  £550  3 – 4 days 

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    *covering preparation, time at the school providing the training and undertaking the review/audit and subsequent reporting. 

    •  Provision of follow-up support will be paid at £19.50 per hour as agreed with the Youth Projects Coordinator.  We anticipate an average of £250 (inc VAT) per school for follow-up support. 
    • Where opportunities are generated by CAfS we will communicate these to all trainers/auditors simultaneously and ask for expressions of interest. We will match trainers/auditors to the work on variable criteria which may include availability, location, experience and skillset. We aim to ensure the work is distributed across the environmental trainers/auditors. 
    • Where opportunities are identified by the trainers/auditors these will be allocated to the trainer/auditor who brings forward the opportunity(s). 
    • Expenses for pre-agreed travel will be paid at 45p/mile.  
    • CAfS is not VAT registered. The above rate is the total amount and therefore includes VAT for any auditors/trainers who are themselves VAT registered.
    • We will accept applications from both individuals and organisations. For applications from an organisation, we would require named trainers/auditors with each individual trainer/auditor’s skills and experience clearly identified.
    • Please contact Ceri Holman ([email protected]) if you have any questions. Your safeguarding processes for working with young people. 

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    HOW TO APPLY

    To apply, please submit:

    • Your CV or CVs if applying as an organisation.
    • A covering letter (2 pages max in size 11 font) clearly showing how you meet the evaluation criteria below including:
    1. Your experience of working with young people, schools and/or youth organisations.
    2. Your experience of undertaking environmental reviews/audits and/or other environmental-themed projects.
    3. Your experience of providing training/coaching.
    4. Examples of similar work you may have done previously.
    5. Your capacity to provide any such services over the next 8 months.
    6. Your safeguarding processes for working with young people.

    Please email your application to [email protected] or send paper copies to CAfS, Eden Rural Foyer, Old London Road, Penrith, Cumbria CA11 8ET to arrive by 10am on Tuesday 4th January

    Interviews will be held via Zoom on Wednesday 12th January and those selected for interview will be notified by email by 5pm on Wednesday 5th January.

    EVALUATION CRITERIA

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    Criteria Max score
    Environmental audits/reviews 

    • Knowledge and experience of undertaking environmental audits/reviews 
    • Relevant qualifications 
    		 35
    Training ability and experience 

    • Experience of delivering training or presentations  
    • Experience of developing training materials 
    • Ability to inspire and motivate others 
    		 35
    Working with young people / schools 

    • Experience of working with young people, schools and/or similar educational organisations 
    • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal with the ability to engage audiences in person and online, including audiences of young people  
    		 20
    Other 

    • Reliable and organised with excellent planning skills and a commitment to reliable admin, monitoring and evaluation 
    • Highly motivated, with a proactive attitude and ability to work independently and cooperatively as part of a small team 
    		 10
    Total  100

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  • More public pressure required to hold governments to 1.5°

    More public pressure required to hold governments to 1.5°

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    So, the UN climate summit, COP26, has wrapped up for another year. In its wake, the media and campaigners have been picking over the outcomes.  

    There were a few good things to come out of COP26. Acknowledgement by global leaders of the seriousness of climate change and the need for urgent action IS helpful. We saw the greater integration of the science into the text – the ‘Glasgow Pact’ included reference to the severity of impacts and risks to people. Quite a few things were agreed, such as the finalisation of details of the Paris Agreement and new language on loss and damage and fossil fuels. There was a slew of announcements with different groups of countries committing to different things such as the Global Methane Pledge. And countries will be revisiting their climate action plans at COP27 next year, instead of in five years’ time. The fact that the event was held in the UK has helped increase levels of interest and momentum in communities, businesses, individuals here.

    In the aftermath of COP26 the number crunching is still going on, but it is already clear that the agreements made and pledges given in Glasgow are nowhere near fast enough, good enough, or strong enough. And that, despite the fact that emissions need to decrease by 45% by 2030 to keep global heating below 1.5 degrees, current pledges add up to an increase rather than a decrease by this key date. 

    So where does COP26 leave Cumbria and our target of zero carbon emissions by 2037?  It makes even more crucial the work of CAfS and that of the many hundreds of community sustainability groups, businesses, schools and colleges, charities, service providers and local authorities that are all engaged in reducing carbon emissions. We have a chance to show what can be done when communities are placed at the heart of driving change.

    We know where the major sources of greenhouse gas emissions come from in Cumbria, from the analysis of the county’s carbon emissions carried out for the Zero Carbon Cumbria Partnership, in the Carbon Baseline for Cumbria. This knowledge means our households, communities, businesses and organisations have the power in their hands to reduce the majority of Cumbria’s emissions, by making the changes that are under their control. Of course, government action and support will also be vital to enable some of the changes that are needed. 

    We need to ensure all the action that’s already happening in Cumbria is showcased, highlighted, celebrated and brought to the attention of political leaders. We need to use our voices and insist on transparency and rapid action. We can each play a part in that – we are all influencers. We can all take steps in our own lives, and beyond that we can all put pressure on all people in positions of influence,  to take the critical and urgent action needed to drive and support the scale of change needed to protect the people and nature we care about for the future.   

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padding_top=”” padding_right=”” padding_bottom=”” padding_left=”” link_color=”” link_hover_color=”” border_sizes=”” border_sizes_top=”” border_sizes_right=”” border_sizes_bottom=”” border_sizes_left=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” box_shadow=”no” box_shadow_vertical=”” box_shadow_horizontal=”” box_shadow_blur=”0″ box_shadow_spread=”0″ box_shadow_color=”” box_shadow_style=”” z_index=”” overflow=”” gradient_start_color=”” gradient_end_color=”” gradient_start_position=”0″ gradient_end_position=”100″ gradient_type=”linear” radial_direction=”center center” linear_angle=”180″ background_color=”” background_image=”” skip_lazy_load=”” background_position=”center center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” fade=”no” background_parallax=”none” enable_mobile=”no” parallax_speed=”0.3″ background_blend_mode=”none” video_mp4=”” video_webm=”” video_ogv=”” video_url=”” video_aspect_ratio=”16:9″ video_loop=”yes” video_mute=”yes” video_preview_image=”” render_logics=”” absolute=”off” absolute_devices=”small,medium,large” sticky=”off” sticky_devices=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” sticky_background_color=”” sticky_height=”” sticky_offset=”” sticky_transition_offset=”0″ scroll_offset=”0″ animation_type=”” animation_direction=”left” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_offset=”” filter_hue=”0″ filter_saturation=”100″ filter_brightness=”100″ filter_contrast=”100″ filter_invert=”0″ filter_sepia=”0″ filter_opacity=”100″ filter_blur=”0″ filter_hue_hover=”0″ filter_saturation_hover=”100″ filter_brightness_hover=”100″ filter_contrast_hover=”100″ filter_invert_hover=”0″ filter_sepia_hover=”0″ filter_opacity_hover=”100″ filter_blur_hover=”0″][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_3″ layout=”1_3″ align_self=”auto” content_layout=”column” align_content=”flex-start” valign_content=”flex-start” content_wrap=”wrap” spacing=”” center_content=”no” link=”” target=”_self” link_description=”” min_height=”” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” sticky_display=”normal,sticky” class=”” id=”” type_medium=”” type_small=”” order_medium=”0″ order_small=”0″ dimension_spacing_medium=”” dimension_spacing_small=”” dimension_spacing=”” dimension_margin_medium=”” dimension_margin_small=”” margin_top=”” margin_bottom=”” padding_medium=”” padding_small=”” padding_top=”” padding_right=”” padding_bottom=”” padding_left=”” hover_type=”none” border_sizes=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” border_radius=”” box_shadow=”no” dimension_box_shadow=”” box_shadow_blur=”0″ box_shadow_spread=”0″ box_shadow_color=”” box_shadow_style=”” overflow=”” background_type=”single” gradient_start_color=”” gradient_end_color=”” gradient_start_position=”0″ gradient_end_position=”100″ gradient_type=”linear” radial_direction=”center center” linear_angle=”180″ background_color=”” background_image=”” background_image_id=”” background_position=”left top” background_repeat=”no-repeat” background_blend_mode=”none” render_logics=”” filter_type=”regular” filter_hue=”0″ filter_saturation=”100″ filter_brightness=”100″ filter_contrast=”100″ filter_invert=”0″ filter_sepia=”0″ filter_opacity=”100″ filter_blur=”0″ filter_hue_hover=”0″ filter_saturation_hover=”100″ filter_brightness_hover=”100″ filter_contrast_hover=”100″ filter_invert_hover=”0″ filter_sepia_hover=”0″ filter_opacity_hover=”100″ filter_blur_hover=”0″ animation_type=”” animation_direction=”left” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_offset=”” last=”false” border_position=”all” first=”true” spacing_right=””][fusion_separator style_type=”single solid” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” sticky_display=”normal,sticky” class=”” id=”” flex_grow=”0″ top_margin=”” bottom_margin=”” width=”” alignment=”center” border_size=”” sep_color=”” icon=”” icon_size=”” icon_color=”” icon_circle=”” icon_circle_color=”” /][fusion_content_boxes layout=”icon-on-side” columns=”1″ link_type=”” button_span=”” link_area=”” link_target=”” icon_align=”left” animation_type=”” animation_direction=”left” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_delay=”” animation_offset=”” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” class=”” id=”” title_size=”” heading_size=”2″ title_color=”” body_color=”” backgroundcolor=”” icon=”fa-users fas” iconflip=”” iconrotate=”” iconspin=”no” iconcolor=”#93cd17″ icon_circle=”” icon_circle_radius=”” circlecolor=”#ffffff” circlebordersize=”0″ circlebordercolor=”” outercirclebordersize=”” outercirclebordercolor=”” icon_size=”” icon_hover_type=”” hover_accent_color=”” image=”” image_id=”” image_max_width=”” margin_top=”” margin_bottom=””][fusion_content_box title=”” backgroundcolor=”” icon=”” iconflip=”” iconrotate=”” iconspin=”” iconcolor=”” circlecolor=”” circlebordersize=”” circlebordercolor=”” outercirclebordersize=”” outercirclebordercolor=”” image=”” image_id=”” image_max_width=”” link=”https://cafs.org.uk/get-involved/donate” linktext=”Donate now” link_target=”” animation_type=”” animation_direction=”left” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_offset=””]

    If you are able to donate to CAfS, with your support we can inspire more people to join the journey towards a zero carbon Cumbria.

    [/fusion_content_box][/fusion_content_boxes][/fusion_builder_column][fusion_builder_column type=”2_3″ layout=”2_3″ align_self=”auto” content_layout=”column” align_content=”flex-start” valign_content=”flex-start” content_wrap=”wrap” spacing=”” center_content=”no” link=”” target=”_self” link_description=”” min_height=”” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” sticky_display=”normal,sticky” class=”” id=”” type_medium=”” type_small=”” order_medium=”0″ order_small=”0″ dimension_spacing_medium=”” dimension_spacing_small=”” dimension_spacing=”” dimension_margin_medium=”” dimension_margin_small=”” margin_top=”” margin_bottom=”” padding_medium=”” padding_small=”” padding_top=”” padding_right=”” padding_bottom=”” padding_left=”” hover_type=”none” border_sizes=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” border_radius=”” box_shadow=”no” dimension_box_shadow=”” box_shadow_blur=”0″ box_shadow_spread=”0″ box_shadow_color=”” box_shadow_style=”” overflow=”” background_type=”single” gradient_start_color=”” gradient_end_color=”” gradient_start_position=”0″ gradient_end_position=”100″ gradient_type=”linear” radial_direction=”center center” linear_angle=”180″ background_color=”” background_image=”” background_image_id=”” background_position=”left top” background_repeat=”no-repeat” background_blend_mode=”none” render_logics=”” filter_type=”regular” filter_hue=”0″ filter_saturation=”100″ filter_brightness=”100″ filter_contrast=”100″ filter_invert=”0″ filter_sepia=”0″ filter_opacity=”100″ filter_blur=”0″ filter_hue_hover=”0″ filter_saturation_hover=”100″ filter_brightness_hover=”100″ filter_contrast_hover=”100″ filter_invert_hover=”0″ filter_sepia_hover=”0″ filter_opacity_hover=”100″ filter_blur_hover=”0″ animation_type=”” animation_direction=”left” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_offset=”” last=”true” border_position=”all” first=”false”][/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]

  • Cold to Cosy wins award

    Cold to Cosy wins award

    [fusion_builder_container type=”flex” hundred_percent=”no” hundred_percent_height=”no” min_height=”” hundred_percent_height_scroll=”no” align_content=”stretch” flex_align_items=”flex-start” flex_justify_content=”flex-start” flex_column_spacing=”” hundred_percent_height_center_content=”yes” equal_height_columns=”no” container_tag=”div” menu_anchor=”” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” status=”published” publish_date=”” class=”” id=”” link_color=”” link_hover_color=”” border_sizes=”” border_sizes_top=”” border_sizes_right=”” border_sizes_bottom=”” border_sizes_left=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing_medium=”” margin_top_medium=”” margin_bottom_medium=”” spacing_small=”” margin_top_small=”” margin_bottom_small=”” margin_top=”” margin_bottom=”” padding_dimensions_medium=”” padding_top_medium=”” padding_right_medium=”” padding_bottom_medium=”” padding_left_medium=”” padding_dimensions_small=”” padding_top_small=”” padding_right_small=”” padding_bottom_small=”” padding_left_small=”” padding_top=”” padding_right=”” padding_bottom=”” padding_left=”” box_shadow=”no” box_shadow_vertical=”” box_shadow_horizontal=”” box_shadow_blur=”0″ box_shadow_spread=”0″ box_shadow_color=”” box_shadow_style=”” z_index=”” overflow=”” gradient_start_color=”” gradient_end_color=”” gradient_start_position=”0″ gradient_end_position=”100″ gradient_type=”linear” radial_direction=”center center” linear_angle=”180″ background_color=”” background_image=”” background_position=”center center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” fade=”no” background_parallax=”none” enable_mobile=”no” parallax_speed=”0.3″ background_blend_mode=”none” video_mp4=”” video_webm=”” video_ogv=”” video_url=”” video_aspect_ratio=”16:9″ video_loop=”yes” video_mute=”yes” video_preview_image=”” absolute=”off” absolute_devices=”small,medium,large” sticky=”off” sticky_devices=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” sticky_background_color=”” sticky_height=”” sticky_offset=”” sticky_transition_offset=”0″ scroll_offset=”0″ animation_type=”” animation_direction=”left” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_offset=”” filter_hue=”0″ filter_saturation=”100″ filter_brightness=”100″ filter_contrast=”100″ filter_invert=”0″ filter_sepia=”0″ filter_opacity=”100″ filter_blur=”0″ filter_hue_hover=”0″ filter_saturation_hover=”100″ filter_brightness_hover=”100″ filter_contrast_hover=”100″ filter_invert_hover=”0″ filter_sepia_hover=”0″ filter_opacity_hover=”100″ filter_blur_hover=”0″][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ layout=”1_1″ align_self=”auto” content_layout=”column” align_content=”flex-start” content_wrap=”wrap” spacing=”” center_content=”no” link=”” target=”_self” min_height=”” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” sticky_display=”normal,sticky” class=”” id=”” type_medium=”” type_small=”” order_medium=”0″ order_small=”0″ dimension_spacing_medium=”” dimension_spacing_small=”” dimension_spacing=”” dimension_margin_medium=”” dimension_margin_small=”” margin_top=”” margin_bottom=”” padding_medium=”” padding_small=”” padding_top=”” padding_right=”” padding_bottom=”” padding_left=”” hover_type=”none” border_sizes=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” border_radius=”” box_shadow=”no” dimension_box_shadow=”” box_shadow_blur=”0″ box_shadow_spread=”0″ box_shadow_color=”” box_shadow_style=”” background_type=”single” gradient_start_color=”” gradient_end_color=”” gradient_start_position=”0″ gradient_end_position=”100″ gradient_type=”linear” radial_direction=”center center” linear_angle=”180″ background_color=”” background_image=”” background_image_id=”” background_position=”left top” background_repeat=”no-repeat” background_blend_mode=”none” animation_type=”” animation_direction=”left” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_offset=”” filter_type=”regular” filter_hue=”0″ filter_saturation=”100″ filter_brightness=”100″ filter_contrast=”100″ filter_invert=”0″ filter_sepia=”0″ filter_opacity=”100″ filter_blur=”0″ filter_hue_hover=”0″ filter_saturation_hover=”100″ filter_brightness_hover=”100″ filter_contrast_hover=”100″ filter_invert_hover=”0″ filter_sepia_hover=”0″ filter_opacity_hover=”100″ filter_blur_hover=”0″ last=”true” border_position=”all” first=”true”][fusion_text columns=”” column_min_width=”” column_spacing=”” rule_style=”default” rule_size=”” rule_color=”” content_alignment_medium=”” content_alignment_small=”” content_alignment=”” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” sticky_display=”normal,sticky” class=”” id=”” margin_top=”” margin_right=”” margin_bottom=”” margin_left=”” font_size=”” fusion_font_family_text_font=”” fusion_font_variant_text_font=”” line_height=”” letter_spacing=”” text_transform=”none” text_color=”” animation_type=”” animation_direction=”left” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_offset=””]

    A huge congratulations to our Cold to Cosy Homes team who came home with something for the trophy cabinet from the North West Energy Efficiency Awards.

    They won for their efforts in vulnerable customer support and the whole team is thrilled that their hard work has been recognised in this way.

    Andrew, Gareth, Tina, Rick, Kim, Jenny, Laura, Laura, Vibeke and Jo have all earned the award through their tireless work in supporting disadvantaged Cumbrians to navigate the complex subject of energy efficiency, managing their usage and bills and making sure homes remain warm over harsh winters.

    Thanks to the NW Energy Efficiency Awards for the boost!

    [/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]

  • Add CAfS to your Christmas list

    Add CAfS to your Christmas list

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    With Christmas around the corner it’s likely that some of us will be buying a few gifts for loved ones, which may be bought through online platforms.

    If you are buying this way, you can help us fight climate change in Cumbria by donating to CAfS while you do so.

    Gifting your time or talents to another is obviously the most eco conscious option, however if you are searching for a specific item second-hand then lots of local charities have online shops on ebay and you can set CAfS as your favourite charity to donate to when using PayPal via ebay (or anytime you use PayPal to buy things). If you are selling your own items online on eBay then you can also select us a charity to donate a proportion of your sales income to.

    Perhaps you might gift some eco friendly items, such as a climate change book, or some sustainable soaps and shampoos? If you haven’t found them locally, but have found them online, then if you buy through the Give as You Live platform or app, they will turn a percentage of your spend into free funds for us. There are over 5,500 stores listed and it doesn’t cost you anything extra.

    And lastly, if you do succumb to the online beast that is Amazon, going via Amazon Smile and selecting us when you shop means your purchase can benefit us too.

    [/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]

  • Community Climate Grants to move towards a Zero Carbon Cumbria 

    Community Climate Grants to move towards a Zero Carbon Cumbria 

    [fusion_builder_container type=”flex” hundred_percent=”no” hundred_percent_height=”no” min_height=”” hundred_percent_height_scroll=”no” align_content=”stretch” flex_align_items=”flex-start” flex_justify_content=”flex-start” flex_column_spacing=”” hundred_percent_height_center_content=”yes” equal_height_columns=”no” container_tag=”div” menu_anchor=”” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” status=”published” publish_date=”” class=”” id=”” link_color=”” link_hover_color=”” border_sizes=”” border_sizes_top=”” border_sizes_right=”” border_sizes_bottom=”” border_sizes_left=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing_medium=”” margin_top_medium=”” margin_bottom_medium=”” spacing_small=”” margin_top_small=”” margin_bottom_small=”” margin_top=”” margin_bottom=”” padding_dimensions_medium=”” padding_top_medium=”” padding_right_medium=”” padding_bottom_medium=”” padding_left_medium=”” padding_dimensions_small=”” padding_top_small=”” padding_right_small=”” padding_bottom_small=”” padding_left_small=”” padding_top=”” padding_right=”” padding_bottom=”” padding_left=”” box_shadow=”no” box_shadow_vertical=”” box_shadow_horizontal=”” box_shadow_blur=”0″ box_shadow_spread=”0″ box_shadow_color=”” box_shadow_style=”” z_index=”” overflow=”” gradient_start_color=”” gradient_end_color=”” gradient_start_position=”0″ gradient_end_position=”100″ gradient_type=”linear” radial_direction=”center center” linear_angle=”180″ background_color=”” background_image=”” background_position=”center center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” fade=”no” background_parallax=”none” enable_mobile=”no” parallax_speed=”0.3″ background_blend_mode=”none” video_mp4=”” video_webm=”” video_ogv=”” video_url=”” video_aspect_ratio=”16:9″ video_loop=”yes” video_mute=”yes” video_preview_image=”” absolute=”off” absolute_devices=”small,medium,large” sticky=”off” sticky_devices=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” sticky_background_color=”” sticky_height=”” sticky_offset=”” sticky_transition_offset=”0″ scroll_offset=”0″ animation_type=”” animation_direction=”left” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_offset=”” filter_hue=”0″ filter_saturation=”100″ filter_brightness=”100″ filter_contrast=”100″ filter_invert=”0″ filter_sepia=”0″ filter_opacity=”100″ filter_blur=”0″ filter_hue_hover=”0″ filter_saturation_hover=”100″ filter_brightness_hover=”100″ filter_contrast_hover=”100″ filter_invert_hover=”0″ filter_sepia_hover=”0″ filter_opacity_hover=”100″ filter_blur_hover=”0″][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ layout=”1_1″ align_self=”auto” content_layout=”column” align_content=”flex-start” content_wrap=”wrap” spacing=”” center_content=”no” link=”” target=”_self” min_height=”” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” sticky_display=”normal,sticky” class=”” id=”” type_medium=”” type_small=”” order_medium=”0″ order_small=”0″ dimension_spacing_medium=”” dimension_spacing_small=”” dimension_spacing=”” dimension_margin_medium=”” dimension_margin_small=”” margin_top=”” margin_bottom=”” padding_medium=”” padding_small=”” padding_top=”” padding_right=”” padding_bottom=”” padding_left=”” hover_type=”none” border_sizes=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” border_radius=”” box_shadow=”no” dimension_box_shadow=”” box_shadow_blur=”0″ box_shadow_spread=”0″ box_shadow_color=”” box_shadow_style=”” background_type=”single” gradient_start_color=”” gradient_end_color=”” gradient_start_position=”0″ gradient_end_position=”100″ gradient_type=”linear” radial_direction=”center center” linear_angle=”180″ background_color=”” background_image=”” background_image_id=”” background_position=”left top” background_repeat=”no-repeat” background_blend_mode=”none” animation_type=”” animation_direction=”left” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_offset=”” filter_type=”regular” filter_hue=”0″ filter_saturation=”100″ filter_brightness=”100″ filter_contrast=”100″ filter_invert=”0″ filter_sepia=”0″ filter_opacity=”100″ filter_blur=”0″ filter_hue_hover=”0″ filter_saturation_hover=”100″ filter_brightness_hover=”100″ filter_contrast_hover=”100″ filter_invert_hover=”0″ filter_sepia_hover=”0″ filter_opacity_hover=”100″ filter_blur_hover=”0″ last=”true” border_position=”all” first=”true”][fusion_text columns=”” column_min_width=”” column_spacing=”” rule_style=”default” rule_size=”” rule_color=”” content_alignment_medium=”” content_alignment_small=”” content_alignment=”” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” sticky_display=”normal,sticky” class=”” id=”” margin_top=”” margin_right=”” margin_bottom=”” margin_left=”” font_size=”” fusion_font_family_text_font=”” fusion_font_variant_text_font=”” line_height=”” letter_spacing=”” text_transform=”none” text_color=”” animation_type=”” animation_direction=”left” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_offset=””]

    A new Community Climate Grant fund of £100,000, backed by The National Lottery Community Fund, the largest funder of community activity in the UK, has been launched by Cumbria Action for Sustainability this month to help local community groups fight climate change.   

     Groups can now apply for grants ranging from £200 to £10,000, for projects and events to raise awareness of the urgent need to stop climate change and to reduce carbon emissions from energy use, land use, waste and transport.  

     The grants are part of the Zero Carbon Cumbria Partnership’s ambitious emission reduction programme to make Cumbria carbon neutral by 2037.     

     CAfS chief executive, Karen Mitchell, said: “The aim of the climate grants is to help communities to reduce carbon emissions. Thanks to National Lottery players, we can support local groups to bring about changes that will contribute to reaching net zero carbon in Cumbria while also benefiting local people. Getting people out of their cars and walking, using bikes or public transport, or sharing car use with others, are examples of actions that tackle climate change but also help householders by saving money on their petrol or diesel bills and getting some fresh air in the process. Similarly, an initiative like a repair cafe helps to reduce waste and the need to buy new things, while also saving money.  

    “The government pledges from COP26 in Glasgow will have some impact on the climate emergency, but we know that change must also come from local communities. We would particularly like to hear from new groups starting up in communities that haven’t had the opportunity to tackle these issues before, as we can support their development.”  

     The launch of the new grants comes just weeks after the UN climate conference in Glasgow closed, highlighting the need for action at all levels – from governments to communities.  

     Nick Gardner, Head of Climate Action at The National Lottery Community Fund, says: “Thanks to National Lottery players, we’re able to support CAfS to reach community groups who are working towards creating a zero carbon Cumbria.  Community groups in Cumbria will be able to bring their climate action work to life by accessing this new Community Climate Grant fund.   

     “Communities across the UK have an important role to play in supporting the UK to get to its Net Zero target, and by taking climate action we are not only making significant environmental improvements but are also helping people and communities prosper and thrive.”  

     Most grants will be awarded in small amounts, with a straightforward application process that’s been designed with community groups in mind. Funding of £750 can be available within a matter of days for projects that meet the eligibility criteria, with medium grants of up to £2,000 being assessed and awarded within a month.  A small number of larger grants of up to £10,000 will also be made to projects that are judged to have the most impact on carbon-saving.  The grants are open to not-for-profit groups based in Cumbria.  

     CAfS is running the grant scheme in partnership with the Cumbria Sustainability Network of more than a dozen community groups from across the county that are working to tackle climate change.   

    There are full details about the grant fund at cafs.org.uk, and groups can also find out more at a webinar on Thursday 25 November at 1pm, which is open for booking now on the CAfS website.   

     More details can be found at Community Climate Grants - CAfS  

     Booking details for the webinar can be found at Community Climate Grants – Launch Webinar (cafs.org.uk)  

     Potential applicants are encouraged to get in touch with [email protected]  if they would like advice or support on making an application.  

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  • Seeds of Resilience

    Seeds of Resilience

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    On Sunday 7th November members of climate action groups from across Cumbria came together with local residents for a day of discussion and celebration at the National Trust’s Footprint building in Windemere.

    The event, entitled ‘Seeds of Resilience’, was organised by CAfS and the National Trust as part of the Zero Carbon Cumbria Partnership to mark COP26 Nature Day and to reinforce the message that everyone can take positive action locally to contribute towards global efforts to reduce the levels of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

    Said Cumbria Sustainability Network Coordinator Helen Attewell, ‘The event brought together members of community groups from across Cumbria to plan actions arising from the COP26 conference in Glasgow.

    ‘The event included the opportunity to explore Cumbria’s beautiful woodland with local environmentalists, and find out more about practical projects to protect biodiversity and cultivate sustainably.’

    The afternoon session included practical workshops with Gareth Thomas, from Woodmatters, taking attendees out into the woods; Lucy Axton; a trainee on The Plot, talked about transforming pastureland and an old council polytunnel near Lancaster into a productive organic garden; Isobel and Fran from SENS (Sustainable Staveley) spoke about their work on building biodiversity into local community plans and Kate Jackson from the Seeds of Resilience’ project at Brockhole described how planting and preserving seeds gives an important message of hope for the future.

    Debbie Riviere, Manager of The Footprint, said, “We are excited to be working with Cumbria Action for Sustainability to highlight the Cop26 summit, through our Seeds of Resilience Day on 7  November.  We had a fantastic turn out and were inspired to discover how interested the local community have been in this event.”

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  • Young people capitalise on COP26 to raise climate concerns

    Young people capitalise on COP26 to raise climate concerns

    [fusion_builder_container type=”flex” hundred_percent=”no” hundred_percent_height=”no” min_height=”” hundred_percent_height_scroll=”no” align_content=”stretch” flex_align_items=”flex-start” flex_justify_content=”flex-start” flex_column_spacing=”” hundred_percent_height_center_content=”yes” equal_height_columns=”no” container_tag=”div” menu_anchor=”” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” status=”published” publish_date=”” class=”” id=”” link_color=”” link_hover_color=”” border_sizes=”” border_sizes_top=”” border_sizes_right=”” border_sizes_bottom=”” border_sizes_left=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing_medium=”” margin_top_medium=”” margin_bottom_medium=”” spacing_small=”” margin_top_small=”” margin_bottom_small=”” margin_top=”” margin_bottom=”” padding_dimensions_medium=”” padding_top_medium=”” padding_right_medium=”” padding_bottom_medium=”” padding_left_medium=”” padding_dimensions_small=”” padding_top_small=”” padding_right_small=”” padding_bottom_small=”” padding_left_small=”” padding_top=”” padding_right=”” padding_bottom=”” padding_left=”” box_shadow=”no” box_shadow_vertical=”” box_shadow_horizontal=”” box_shadow_blur=”0″ box_shadow_spread=”0″ box_shadow_color=”” box_shadow_style=”” z_index=”” overflow=”” gradient_start_color=”” gradient_end_color=”” gradient_start_position=”0″ gradient_end_position=”100″ gradient_type=”linear” radial_direction=”center center” linear_angle=”180″ background_color=”” background_image=”” background_position=”center center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” fade=”no” background_parallax=”none” enable_mobile=”no” parallax_speed=”0.3″ background_blend_mode=”none” video_mp4=”” video_webm=”” video_ogv=”” video_url=”” video_aspect_ratio=”16:9″ video_loop=”yes” video_mute=”yes” video_preview_image=”” absolute=”off” absolute_devices=”small,medium,large” sticky=”off” sticky_devices=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” sticky_background_color=”” sticky_height=”” sticky_offset=”” sticky_transition_offset=”0″ scroll_offset=”0″ animation_type=”” animation_direction=”left” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_offset=”” filter_hue=”0″ filter_saturation=”100″ filter_brightness=”100″ filter_contrast=”100″ filter_invert=”0″ filter_sepia=”0″ filter_opacity=”100″ filter_blur=”0″ filter_hue_hover=”0″ filter_saturation_hover=”100″ filter_brightness_hover=”100″ filter_contrast_hover=”100″ filter_invert_hover=”0″ filter_sepia_hover=”0″ filter_opacity_hover=”100″ filter_blur_hover=”0″][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ layout=”1_1″ align_self=”auto” content_layout=”column” align_content=”flex-start” content_wrap=”wrap” spacing=”” center_content=”no” link=”” target=”_self” min_height=”” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” sticky_display=”normal,sticky” class=”” id=”” type_medium=”” type_small=”” order_medium=”0″ order_small=”0″ dimension_spacing_medium=”” dimension_spacing_small=”” dimension_spacing=”” dimension_margin_medium=”” dimension_margin_small=”” margin_top=”” margin_bottom=”” padding_medium=”” padding_small=”” padding_top=”” padding_right=”” padding_bottom=”” padding_left=”” hover_type=”none” border_sizes=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” border_radius=”” box_shadow=”no” dimension_box_shadow=”” box_shadow_blur=”0″ box_shadow_spread=”0″ box_shadow_color=”” box_shadow_style=”” background_type=”single” gradient_start_color=”” gradient_end_color=”” gradient_start_position=”0″ gradient_end_position=”100″ gradient_type=”linear” radial_direction=”center center” linear_angle=”180″ background_color=”” background_image=”” background_image_id=”” background_position=”left top” background_repeat=”no-repeat” background_blend_mode=”none” animation_type=”” animation_direction=”left” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_offset=”” filter_type=”regular” filter_hue=”0″ filter_saturation=”100″ filter_brightness=”100″ filter_contrast=”100″ filter_invert=”0″ filter_sepia=”0″ filter_opacity=”100″ filter_blur=”0″ filter_hue_hover=”0″ filter_saturation_hover=”100″ filter_brightness_hover=”100″ filter_contrast_hover=”100″ filter_invert_hover=”0″ filter_sepia_hover=”0″ filter_opacity_hover=”100″ filter_blur_hover=”0″ last=”true” border_position=”all” first=”true”][fusion_text columns=”” column_min_width=”” column_spacing=”” rule_style=”default” rule_size=”” rule_color=”” content_alignment_medium=”” content_alignment_small=”” content_alignment=”” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” sticky_display=”normal,sticky” class=”” id=”” margin_top=”” margin_right=”” margin_bottom=”” margin_left=”” font_size=”” fusion_font_family_text_font=”” fusion_font_variant_text_font=”” line_height=”” letter_spacing=”” text_transform=”none” text_color=”” animation_type=”” animation_direction=”left” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_offset=””]

    Young people in Cumbria have seized on the momentum generated by the COP26 climate conference in Glasgow to present their environmental concerns to leading figures within the county.

    They presented the outcomes from a recent successful Cumbria Youth Climate Summit to Councillor Celia Tibble (Cumbria County Council Cabinet Member for Environment) and Karen Mitchell (co-chair of Zero Carbon Cumbria Partnership and CEO of Cumbria Action for Sustainability).

    The meeting, which took place at Cumbria County Council’s Kendal offices, coincided with Youth and Public Empowerment Day at COP26, the United Nations summit that brought together heads of state, climate experts and campaigners to agree coordinated action to tackle climate change and ran until November 12.

    The delegation of Cumbrian youngsters featured 17-year-old Hannah Wright from Kendal, who was recently selected to feature as Europe’s contributor to a Sky Kids documentary about COP26 and how climate change is already having an impact on their lives.

    Hannah and her fellow young activists shared examples of youth voices and activities in Cumbria. They made key climate recommendations for Cumbria relating to transport, the environment and opportunities to generate clean energy.

    Discussions also took place as to how civic leaders can ensure that young people are given the opportunity to be actively involved and influence all aspects of Zero Carbon Cumbria and other environmental initiatives in the county.

    The Cumbria Youth Climate Summit took place online last month. It was organised by Cumbria Development Education Centre (CDEC) and CAfS as part of the “Zero Carbon Cumbria, by the people for the people” project, which is funded by the National Lottery’s Climate Action Fund. Cumbria County Council, Fellfoot Forward and Eco-schools also provided support.

    Over 500 students from 15 schools throughout the county took part and helped shape the recommendations presented to Councillor Tibble and colleagues, which included calls for:

    • cycling to be made a safer transport option with more cycle lanes around Cumbria
    • reduced costs of public transport
    • schools and their local communities to turn waste ground into attractive shared spaces with opportunities to grow produce
    • increased recycling, reducing food waste and plastic packaging
    • increased opportunities for young people to engage on local climate-related decision-making, including representation where appropriate at council meetings.

    They were also shown a short video featuring students from across Cumbria expressing their concerns and hopes for climate action. You can view the video on our YouTube channel.

    Fiona (Co-host of Cumbria Youth Climate Summit. Aged 17 from Penrith) said ‘I think that everyone has the responsibility to do what they can. So if you’re a person who is in a position of influence, I’d like to see you using your voice to try and promote change as much as you can. I really think that there has never been a more important time to act’.

    Cllr Celia Tibble, Cabinet Member for the Environment, said: ‘I was delighted to have the opportunity to hear the wide range of ideas and views of our young people on climate change, and the actions they are taking to encourage all of us to tackle the most important global issue of our time.

    ‘Their passion for demanding change and direct action is inspiring, and I have no doubt there are some future leaders among them. Their dedication to the sustainability of our planet must now inspire governments and organisations to facilitate real change, and they have my full support during this vitally important time.’

    Karen Mitchell, CEO of CAfS, said: ‘Young people have every right to be concerned for their futures and to demand action on climate change There is much that we all need to do and can do here in Cumbria that these young people have highlighted very well and which would benefit all our lives as well as help safeguard their futures. People and organisations across Cumbria must listen and respond to them.’

    Laura Goad, Director of CDEC, said: “The Youth Climate Summit last month was Cumbria’s third such event; Robert Ferguson Primary School planned the initial summits in 2019 and 2020. This summit showed us yet again how passionate young people are about the health and wellbeing of the planet and how they are equipped – with ideas, plans and vision – to take local action that can have global impact.”

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  • Ask us about new grants for heat pumps

    Ask us about new grants for heat pumps

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    The newly announced government grant of up to £5000 to help householders replace an old boiler with a heat pump is already generating a lot of interest. And the CAfS team are ready to answer your questions.

    With a grant of £5000, if you can install an air source heat pump for £7000 then there’s just £2000 to pay, to swap out your old gas boiler and replace it with a heat pump – right?

    For some households, it could be that easy. But, even in these cases, there are some important differences between an oil or gas boiler and a heat pump. And it’s important to get a system that is correctly sized for your house, correctly installed, and correctly commissioned. If you can do all of that, you should have a great, low carbon heating system that heats your home effectively for many years to come.

    If your house is not currently ‘heat pump ready’, don’t despair, as you can make energy improvements to your home in the meantime. And heat pump technology and costs could make them a better option a few years down the line.  

    Beware of sales pitches. We suggest getting independent advice to make sure you can decide on the best solution. Here are the key things to consider (and it’s not an exhaustive list.) 

    Heat pump checklist 

    1. Is my house already sufficiently well insulated for a heat pump to heat the house effectively, or will it cost more in electricity if I just install a heat pump now without making any changes? 
    2. If my house is quite well insulated, would it make sense to increase the insulation further so that my heat pump would cost less to run? 
    3. Do I need to make other changes – a new or replacement hot water tank? Bigger radiators? Wider bore pipework? Underfloor heating in some places? What is the cost of these changes and any making good of the interior décor? 
    4. Where is a suitable place to put an Air Source Heat Pump unit outside my house and will I or neighbours hear it? 
    5. Would I want a heat pump installer to size my system including radiators?  
    6. Or would I prefer to have an independent consultant to size the system so that I can ask several installers to quote against the same specification?
    7. How will I distinguish between a competent installer and one that might not be carrying out high quality installations? 
    8. Can I find out about other people’s experiences of installing heat pumps? 

    CAfS can help with our free advice service. And for a comprehensive energy audit, there’s our Home Retrofit Planner service, which starts from £600.  

     To find out more:  

    Enquire online 

    Email us at [email protected]  

    Call us on 01768 216500 

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  • COP26 – what we can dare to hope for and what it means for Cumbria

    COP26 – what we can dare to hope for and what it means for Cumbria

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    In a few days’ time, world leaders will arrive in Glasgow for the UN climate summit, COP26. When the negotiations draw to a close two weeks later, will countries have made the commitments needed to keep global temperature rise within the crucial 1.5 degrees limit?

    Speaking to school children this week, the prime minister said: “I am very worried because it might go wrong and we might not get the agreements that we need and it is touch and go. It is very, very difficult, but I think it can be done.”

    Whether the PM was managing expectations, or being cautiously optimistic, each can judge for themselves. One thing is clear – regardless of the commitments that countries make during COP, the science remains the same. Globally, we must reduce emissions by 45% by 2030 if we’re to have any prospect of keeping within the 1.5 degree limit.

    The reports by the UN’s climate scientists, the IPCC, over the past few months couldn’t be any clearer. Their August report was branded ‘code red for humanity’. They’ve said the viability of our societies depend on staying within these emissions limits.  

    So, what happens if governments don’t act? Well, we’re now at around 1.2 degrees above the average global temperature of pre-industrial times, before we started burning fossil fuels at scale. We’re already seeing the impacts of this seemingly small change in temperature around the world – heatwaves, droughts, floods, wildfires, rising sea levels, acidification of oceans, melting of permafrosts and glaciers – and the devastation these have already caused for people and nature, as well as the huge financial cost of dealing with the aftermath. Some of these changes are irreversible. 

    It is deeply concerning that the pledges made by countries so far put us on track for a 16% increase in emissions by 2030, instead of the 45% decrease needed. This effectively abandons low-lying nations and many in the global south to climate chaos, while condemning communities here in Cumbria to face repeated and more severe flooding. 

    With every fraction of a degree that temperatures rise, the impacts worsen. That’s why every tonne of carbon saved counts. That’s why we have targets in Cumbria for emission reduction that are based on the science, led by the Zero Carbon Cumbria Partnership of 80+ organisations – from business leaders and local authorities to community groups. That’s why our county has ambitious projects that lead the way and bring wider benefits. For example, the switch to renewable energy in Cumbria has huge potential to create new jobs and increase our resilience and energy security. Actions to reduce energy use in our homes will also make them warmer and save people money in the long term.   

    We hope to see action out of COP26 that aligns with the urgency of the science and gives us the results recommended by the IPCC – pledges in line with 1.5 degrees, and the end of all new fossil fuel exploration and production.  Whatever governments commit to during COP26, here in Cumbria we will continue to act at the pace and scale required by science. We will lead the way, ensure communities benefit from and influence climate action in the county, and do all we can to bring about the thousands of green jobs, that will result. 

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  • Electric Battle Bus rolls into Burneside

    Electric Battle Bus rolls into Burneside

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    The good people at Burneside Community Energy (BCE) hosted the only Cumbrian stop on a UK tour of film makers documenting low carbon initiatives in a big, blue zero-carbon bus.

    The government-funded Zero Carbon Tour stopped by to feature the successful partnership between BCE and James Cropper PLC, which has seen a range of solar PV arrays installed at the firm’s plant. BCE held an event showcasing their success and welcomed representatives from multiple organisations involved in Cumbria’s sustainability efforts. 

    The Zero Carbon Tour is a project from Planet Mark, a team of sustainability certifiers. They are embarking on a huge journey across the UK. Everywhere they stop, they are filming local climate action by businesses and communities. 

    Their tour ends in Glasgow in November just in time for the UN climate summit, COP26, the world’s largest gathering of world leaders to discuss their plans to avert the climate emergency.

    Jo Little from Planet Mark said: ‘We’re capturing carbon stories. We’re finding out what businesses are doing to spread that knowledge and awareness and encourage other businesses to do the right thing as well. 

    ‘We’re going to take these carbon stories to COP26 to allow the government to understand what people are doing up and down the country. We’ve seen some fantastic initiatives in Burneside today. There’s such a strong spirit of community here and we’ve been deeply impressed by what they’ve shown us.’ 

    BCE was set up in 2015, raising funds through a community share offer to install solar PV on the roof of James Cropper PLC, a large paper producer in the town. Since then, it has installed 998.5kW of solar panels on the factory, paid for further solar panels for the local primary school and is expected to raise over £50,000 for community projects over the coming years. Not bad at all!

    Director of BCE Phil Davies said: ‘We’re incredibly proud to have the bus come to us and recognise what we’ve achieved here in Burneside. What we’ve got that is really special is a partnership between a big industry leader in James Cropper PLC and the people who live in the village, who got together to see what we could do about the problems of carbon and climate. Our solar panels save around 330 tonnes of carbon a year, and we hope that we could be a template to inspire similar villages and towns throughout Cumbria to do the same.’ 

    As well as providing a service and assets for the village, the project was also a smart move for James Cropper PLC. Their utilities manager Richard Graham said: ‘It’s a win-win situation. We had a lot of empty roofs, and the renewables technology was becoming more economic. We could install solar PV with no negative impact to the business and indeed we now use the power generated from the panels. James Cropper wants to show other businesses that it can be done and that it’s really a no brainer.’ 

    The film makers from the bus interviewed and filmed the team from BCE as well as representatives from James Cropper PLC, Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership (CLEP) and our CEO Karen Mitchell. They then joined us in the village’s hall to find out more through a series of short presentations about the project and how it fits into the wider efforts to reduce carbon emissions in the county. 

    Karen said: ‘It’s great that Planet Mark have stopped in Cumbria as we have a particularly ambitious target to reach net-zero carbon by 2037. The actions of businesses are critical to achieving this so we can be proud that we have a Zero Carbon Cumbria Partnership of 80 organisations working together towards this goal. We face particular challenges in this county due to being highly rural with many isolated communities along with the effects of extreme weather events. It’s good to know that these experiences will be making their way to Glasgow alongside more urban concerns.’ 

    Ian Wheeler from Cumbria LEP said: ‘We want to see Cumbria lead the way on clean energy and we believe this is possible due to our industrial heritage and our natural resources. We’re seeing a brilliant example of a business thriving through generating renewable power with their community in James Cropper PLC. We’d love to see this success replicated across the county.’ 

    The event was supported by the National Lottery Community Fund as part of the Zero Carbon Cumbria Partnership’s ambitious emission reduction programme.  

    Planet Mark’s Zero Carbon Tour is being supported by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy. The bus’s next stops will be in the North East and Scotland before it finally arrives at COP26 in November. 

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