Sustainability & Environmental Consulting

Eleanor Watts, chair of the Rose Hill and Iffley Low Carbon Action Group, leads a community initiative in Rose Hill, Oxford, which faces significant economic deprivation. The challenge lies in engaging a community where immediate concerns often overshadow climate change issues. To address this, the group employs the One Planet Living framework, which has been integrated into their activities over the past three years. This approach allows them to connect with residents on various fronts, making climate action accessible and relevant to all community members.

One of the group's notable initiatives is the Repair Café, which embodies the zero waste principle. This project not only provides a space for repairing clothes and electronics but also fosters social interaction among community members, including those who may not identify as environmentally conscious. The café serves as a gathering point where families can engage in activities while learning about sustainability. Additionally, the group collaborates with Rose Hill School to incorporate One Planet Living principles into educational assemblies, promoting tree planting and cycling events, thereby instilling environmental awareness in younger generations.

A significant achievement of the group was their involvement in a renewable energy project that resulted in the installation of solar PV panels and battery storage on 76 social homes. This initiative not only provided renewable energy access to low-income households but also helped reduce their fuel bills, addressing the pressing issue of fuel poverty in the area. The community's collective efforts, including the establishment of a One Planet Living action plan at the community center and the transformation of the local church into an eco-church, reflect their ambition to create the first zero-carbon neighborhood in the UK.

Looking ahead, the group plans to develop a community map highlighting local resources and safer cycling routes, alongside advocating for improved cycling infrastructure. They are also supporting a microgrid trial at Rose Hill School, aiming to enhance local energy ownership and efficiency. Through these initiatives, the Rose Hill and Iffley Low Carbon Action Group demonstrates a comprehensive approach to sustainability that is deeply rooted in community engagement and practical solutions.