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Dear All,

We would like a little feedback from the group about how we can move forward in the fight against Climate Change. We are open to suggestions for things to do and ideas for how you’d like to get involved. I am thinking too of changing the way I communicate information and projects and will from now on just put it out on Embsay Update and The Embsay & Eastby Post. That way we can reach a wider audience of  different ages.

Current news about the environment does not make for cheerful reading.

First of all September this year has now been declared the warmest on record. Scientists are shocked by the scale of the increase and put it down to climate change comparing temperatures with pre fossil fuel statistics.

Secondly the “State of Nature” report for 2023  showed a further decline of species and biodiversity. Intensive farming and climate change are the biggest drivers. We are currently classified as one of the world’s most nature depleted countries.

Thirdly our Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has done a u-turn on key targets concerning the environment. The ban of petrol cars has been delayed by 5 years. Plans to phase out gas boilers have been loosened and landlords will not be obliged to insulate their properties to a higher standard. Licenses have been given for further oil fields around the UK.

On the positive side:

Our campaign against the use of Glyphosate in our villages continues and David Jones at Area 5 is in contact with DEFRA over its use.

Locally, groups continue to work to protect nature.

The Nature Reserve is planting more wildflowers.

Holme Grown at Eastby is evolving into quite a nature reserve and has wildflower meadow, pond and hedgerows and a no pesticide policy.

EWEEAG has been working in the playground to create more wildlife habitats and planting wildflowers.

Community Litter Pick – Scheduled  for Saturday 21st October 10am in the car park in Embsay.

Skipton Climate Action Group has been recently set up. The next meeting is on Monday 30th October at 6pm in the Education Room (round the back) in the Town hall. Anyone is welcome to join.

What can you do?
Make your garden as wildlife friendly as possible.
Think how you can save energy day to day.
Write to your MP or DEFRA if you are concerned about any issues.

Kind Regards
Barbara

Embsay with Eastby Environmental Action Group