News
Thursday 22 November 2007
Get Engaged With Changeworks
That’s the message from the Edinburgh-based charity, which has launched a campaign to encourage people to commit to tackling climate change.
“Although we’re asking people to get engaged, we’re not asking anyone to get down on bended knee and pop the question, book the caterers or buy a new hat!” said Changeworks Chief Executive Simon Lee.
"Get engaged with Changeworks is about helping Edinburgh folk to make a difference. Changeworks is right here in Edinburgh and taking the first steps towards taking action on climate change is as simple as giving us a ring.”
A recent WWF report revealed that Edinburgh has the largest ecological footprint of any city in Scotland (1). SEPA statistics also show that Edinburgh is behind its neighbours when it comes to recycling and composting (2). The good news is that 70% of people are prepared to change their lifestyle to address climate change (3). And that’s where Changeworks comes in.
People who contact Changeworks for sustainable energy, waste or transport advice on 0131 555 4010 during the campaign can commit to tackling climate change by promising to, for example, fit energy saving lightbulbs, compost at home or cycle for short journeys.
The promises will go into a draw to win ‘The Works’ - a prize worth around £1,000 and made up of the best of what Changeworks has to offer, including a home energy survey worth £100, an energy efficient fridge, a compost bin with kitchen caddy and a bicycle.
The charity is also asking people to tell their friends, family, neighbours and colleagues about the organisation to get them to get engaged with Changeworks too.
In 2006 Changeworks engaged almost 100,000 people in achieving environmental, economic and social sustainability4. By 2016 the charity would like to be engaging with ten times that number.
Minister for Environment Michael Russell MSP commented: “I am very encouraged to see an organisation like Changeworks get off the ground and I fully endorse their message. Scotland has come far on sustainable living in a relatively short time, but there is much more we can all do, particularly on recycling. The Scottish Government aspires to a zero waste society and we need the help of Changeworks and others to get there. The people of Edinburgh now have a valuable resource at their disposal.”
Launched last year, Changeworks was previously known as Lothian and Edinburgh Environmental Partnership (LEEP). The charity delivers a range of services from its Newhaven Road headquarters including: the Lothian and Edinburgh Energy Efficiency Advice Centre, the Edinburgh and Lothians Real Nappy Project and business recycling service LEEP Recycling.
PHOTO: “Give us a ring!” Simon Lee, Chief Executive of Changeworks proposes to the city of Edinburgh as part of the charity’s campaign to encourage people to get engaged with Changeworks and commit to tackling climate change.
CASE STUDY: When they got married a year ago Changeworker Jess Gildener and husband Ben made a commitment to each other, now they are making another: to tackle climate change by following Changeworks’ advice as they make their first home together. They have bought their furniture from charity shops, use the Internet to buy and sell second hand goods and even have their own wormery. Photos available.
For more information, or a hi-res version of the photo, please contact:
Sarah Barclay
T: 0131 313 4283 / M: 07849 425 661
Helen Peacock
T: 0131 555 4010
Notes to Editors:
1. www.wwf.org.uk/news/n_0000004489.asp
2. In the three months to June this year Edinburgh’s recycling rate was 30% whereas East Lothian’s was 36%, West Lothian’s 37.7% and Fife’s was 42.2%. Recycling figures from the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) November 2007: www.sepa.org.uk/news/releases/view.asp?id=606&y=2007
3. BBC worldwide poll carried out in May to July 2007: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/7075759.stm
4. Changeworks’ Annual Review 2006 (1 April 2005 – 31 March 2006)
5. The Get engaged with Changeworks campaign is asking people to commit to some or all of the following:
- fit energy saving lightbulbs- insulate loft/cavity walls
- sign up for green energy
- start home composting
- buy from and donate to charity shops
- change to real nappies
- shop smart by:
- taking a list and buying only what you need
- choosing loose fruit and veg.
- resisting the temptation of Buy One Get One Free
- and taking an old bag when shopping
- start recycling at work
- use public transport/walk/cycle/car share
- adopt eco-driving
- tell a friend
6. Changeworks exists to improve quality of life and to protect the environment. We work with passion, integrity and in collaboration to develop and deliver innovative projects and businesses in energy, waste and transport that inspire and empower people and communities to make a difference.
7. CHANGEWORKS Resources for Life Ltd. is a company registered as a charity in Scotland and limited by guarantee. Charity No. SCO15144. Company No. SC103904. Registered Office: 36 Newhaven Road, Edinburgh EH6 5PY. VAT Reg. No. 703521966
