HEREFORDSHIRE ENVIRONMENT DAY

More than 5000 people visited the “Herefordshire Environment Day” in High Town last week and organisers are hailing it a huge success.

Each year the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) holds a “World Environment Day”.

On Wednesday, June 9, Herefordshire Partnership and Herefordshire Council celebrated the County’s very own “Herefordshire Environment Day”

More than 26 environmental organisation and groups set up stalls in High Town creating an interesting and interactive environmental stage under a huge marquee.

Geoff Perrott, Herefordshire Partnership Environmental Co-ordinator, said: “It was a truly excellent day, thoroughly enjoyed by stallholders and visitors alike.

“More than 5000 people passed through marquee which hosted a diverse range of stalls.

“Most emerged from the experience with a heightened appreciation of the environment and how their small contributions all add up to a collective positive impact for our precious environment.”

A broad spectrum of issues were presented, ranging from the importance of educating the younger generation about ecosystems, to the ways in which we can reduce our impact on the climate through simple steps such as fitting low energy light bulbs or installing cavity wall insulation.

To fit in with the Oceans and Seas theme, local groups were on-hand to teach visiting school children about the importance of rivers and their close relationship with the seas and oceans.

The day was opened by Cllr Phil Edwards, Herefordshire Council’s Cabinet Member (Environment) and representatives from St James’ School, Hereford - an award winning Eco-school.

A host of free goodies were also on offer which included 130 low-energy light bulbs, 150 water hippos, 1,250 recycled pencils and rulers.

The information and resources supplies by the exhibitors were also much appreciated including the Herefordshire Partnership Newsletter, “The Daily Planet”.

More follows

The free newsletter focussed on environmental issues, the Herefordshire Plan, Energy efficiency advice and how to get involved in biodiversity projects, waste reduction and composting ideas, and ways to save yourself money while you save the environment.