A bubble-wrap exchange in Tewkesbury

5 May 2011

Steve is Co-ordinator of Tewkesbury & District Friends of the Earth.

He tells of how campaigning with Friends of the Earth fits nicely around his other commitments.

The group recently took part in the Waste Day of Action calling on David Cameron to halve all black bag waste. As part of this, the group put their own local spin on the campaign:

We approached Tewkesbury Town Council with a proposal for a 'bubble wrap exchange' in the Town Hall, a 'bring and take' facility for bubble wrap and jiffy bags. If it becomes established we'll be extending the hours and range of items.

Small but significant

Adding to this excellent idea, the group have also proposed to recycle jiffy bags that are beyond re-use. The Town Council have agreed to both suggestions.

If the scheme works and is copied around the country, it will make a small but significant contribution towards diversion from landfill.

And to get anywhere in campaigning, there's no better place to start than the first step.

Flexible and adaptable

Steve takes a "scatter-gun" approach to his campaigning, getting involved in a wide range of issues as his time permits.

Working with others makes sure no-one gets overloaded.

As far as Friends of the Earth projects are concerned, there's normally someone else in the group or our Gloucestershire network who can help.

This is the great thing about being part of a grassroots movement - we all support each other to make change happen.

Get involved locally

Find your nearest Friends of the Earth group and get involved in your own community.