Spring is finally here and so is the latest edition of our newsletter. There has been a lot going on the past few months. Julien Pritchard, our campaigns support worker, left to start a new job. We are all sad to see him leave and wish him the best of luck. Everyone at Birmingham Friends of the Earth would like to say a massive thank you to Julien for all the support he has given us over the past few years. I have now taken over the role and am enjoying every second! There has been a lot going on, on the campaigning side, too!
Economics
Those working on the Birmingham Pound have been extremely busy with campaign planning and research. Read Corline’s article to find out what’s been going on. To hear the latest news from Brum Pound, sign up to their newsletter: https://www.facebook.com/BrumPound/
Energy and Climate Change
Tim Thorpe attended an event run by Eco Sutton on the 4 February. The event was an opportunity for residents to discuss what can be done locally following the Paris climate talks. Read all about it in Tim’s article.
On 13 February, we teamed up with campaigners from across the region for Divest West Midland Pension Fund’s day of action. Campaigners were dressed in orange jackets and held brightly coloured umbrellas with divest messages on. The day went well and 100 people signed the petition. Take a look at Molly’s article to find out more.
Nature
After the success of our Halloween Harvest festival back in October, plans are underway for a summer event in Digbeth Community Garden. Watch this space for more details!
Have a read of Adam’s article to find out what’s already growing in Digbeth Community Garden and the work that’s been going on. The new brick stage looks great!
Waste
On the 12 January, campaigners handed in the Waste Isn’t Rubbish petition in kitchen caddies to Councillor Lisa Trickett. The campaign has gained amazing support from residents and neighbourhood groups from across the city with over 1300 people signing the petition. Check out Joy’s article for all the details of the petition hand-in.
The campaign doesn’t end with the petition hand-in. At the time of writing, the Future Waste Strategy consultation is on hold but, as soon as it re-opens, Birmingham Friends of the Earth will be taking action!
Joy Aston has been busy spreading the word about our waste campaign. Joy enjoyed giving talks to the Kings Norton Women’s Institute and to Yardley Widows Group. There was a great discussion about Birmingham’s waste and the environment in general and there was strong support for the introduction of a food waste collection.
We are always looking for people to get involved with our campaigns so if you fancy getting involved then please get in touch.
