Make small changes for the Great Big Green Week

A Rochdale resident is urging people to make small changes for the Great Big Green Week (10-18 June) – with the aim of continuing afterwards to tackle climate change and protect nature.

Stephen Sharp, who is also a Green Party member, is highlighting small changes everyone can make so that the Rochdale borough can be “a better place to live.”

Simple changes he advocates for include using the soft plastic recycling hubs at local supermarkets (for plastics like bread bags), installing a water meter and walking to school.

He said: “As an advocate for the environment and a member of the Green Party, I would not like such an important week to pass by without highlighting how each and every one of us can make small changes to make our locality a better place to live.

“I am disappointed for us all when the level of recycling level at Rochdale Tip is less than 50%. I have reduced the plastic in our bin at home by using the local supermarket recycling hub, but more needs to be done by having these facilities at far more and varied locations.

“We recently had a water meter installed which, for a household of two people or less, will make a big saving on the cost of your monthly water bill, and United Utilities fit them at no cost. At a time when household budgets are stretched, this is an easy way to save between £25 and £30 a month.”

 

 

Mr Sharp continued: “I am sure most people within Rochdale would agree the level of traffic congestion is appalling. One of the most disappointing facts is the number of cars parked outside schools to pick up pupils. It creates congestion, bad air quality and wastes resources.

“Added to this, it is not far better for children’s health if they walked to school whenever possible.

“I urge everyone to think about any small changes you can make, not only for the Big Green Week, but all year round.”

The Great Big Green Week is the UK’s biggest ever celebration of community action to tackle climate change and protect nature. 

The Big Green Week sees everything from litter picks to letter writing, festivals to football matches, seaweed foraging to school assemblies.

Events are hosted by teachers, sport clubs, artists, community groups, places of worship, libraries, – anyone who cares about climate change.