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KEYNSHAM NEWS
COMMUNITY ECO FESTIVAL T
he world has had little to celebrate in the last 18 months as it has been a very challenging time, particularly for those who have lost loved ones to the pandemic. But it has not all been doom and gloom, as one of the winners from lockdown has been the environment. Improvements in air quality, lower greenhouse gas emissions and lower levels of noise pollution are some of the benefits that we have experienced. The inhabitants of Delhi, report that they are able to see the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas some 200 kilometres away for the first time in 30 years, whilst people who live in Venice say that the water in the canals is the clearest it has been for 60 years due to the decline in the tourist traffic on the water. Stories such as these can be reported from all corners of the globe. It would however be naive of us to imagine that this situation would remain long term. As people want to holiday, planes will take to the air again, the traffic will build up on our roads and as industry worldwide moves back into production, pollution levels will increase. But we cannot afford to allow all of the gains that have occurred to be wiped out – we cannot afford a return to the status quo. Churches Together in Keynsham and Saltford, in conjunction with Keynsham Town Council, are arranging a Community Eco Festival to be based in Market Walk and in The Space (above Keynsham Library) Keynsham on Saturday 18th September running from 10.00 am to 3.00 pm. The objective of the event will be to raise awareness about climate change and to provide information on what individuals can do to reduce their carbon footprint. Mindfulness, spiritual, social and climate justice elements will be included in the event, such as our responsibility to care for nature and the effect of global warming, not only on
us but the poorest people on our planet. There will be stalls representing businesses, charities, community groups, action groups, schools and other young people’s groups all of whom share the one purpose of trying to make our planet a better and safer place for us all. Our Churches will be open providing visual presentations and also a place for quiet and meditation. On the Friday evening there will be an open evening held in The Space with guest speakers – the Head of Food and Farming at the Soil Association, the Chief Executive of the Avon Wildlife Trust, the Managing Director of Bath and West Community Energy and the Fund Manager of Triodos Bank. Whilst the reason behind the day is a serious one, it will nevertheless be a fun day. A fun day for all of the family with the opportunity for children and young people to participate. It will be a day that challenges but also provides the opportunity to respond. So, make a note of the date in your diary and come along for an hour - or two!
Support Your Local Zero Waste Store! We sell a wide range of food and non-food refills - Artisan breads - Loose, fresh coffee beans - Special Dietary Needs - Organic & local fruit & vegetables - Locally made kimchi & sauerkraut And so much more... 1, Bath Hill Keynsham (opposite Peacocks) 0117 9865511 www.consciencefoodsandlifestyle.co.uk
