Villagers' 'Carbon Neutral' Ideas

There were plenty of ideas about improving the quality of life and the environment in Haddenham at a virtual village forum last Wednesday, 22nd July. Laying the foundations for further community debate and action, to build a positive post-Covid legacy and achieve the village's zero carbon targets.

About 70 villagers packed into the online event, organised by Zero Carbon Haddenham. Residents heard more about the Parish Council's ambitious zero carbon plan, from Parish Councillor David O'Hanlon. Participants also heard more about existing community projects to plant new trees, to improve cycle and walkways, and for a potential village electric vehicle car club.

Ideas raised ranged from a having a local bicycle repair service, to reducing speed limits to 20mph, to home insulation, more path and cycleways so that children from anywhere in the village can get to school safely, a food waste project, and much more. You can see the recording of the online meeting and discussion, view all the presentations, and access Cllr David O'Hanlon's Haddenham Parish Climate Emergency Report by clicking by visiting the Zero Carbon Haddenham website.

Greg Smith, Chair of Zero Carbon Haddenham, said:

"The meeting exceeded our expectations, with so many different people taking time and showing such interest. There are so many ways each of us can help towards reducing the village's carbon footprint, and improve the quality of village life. The virtual village forum was just the start of a journey.

"We will be working closely with the Parish Council, to support and help improve their plan. We're hoping existing community projects will work together more, and to encourage others to join in planting trees, or demanding safer cycle and walkways.

"The more villagers make their views known to the council, the more likely action will happen. Virtual village forums make it easier for more people to participate in the village debate. We welcome everyone to that debate."

For further information about existing zero carbon community projects, and to be kept up to date with developments and future virtual village forums, visit Zero Carbon Haddenham's website or Facebook page.

Roy Payne
26 July 2020