From the Energy Group<\/a>
Public Engagement Group update<\/a>
Carbon Cutters Update<\/a>
The Wildlife Warden Report<\/a>
The Chair’s Report<\/a>
W.A.D.E Project<\/a>
ACT with the ARTS Climate Festival 2024<\/a>
Food Farming Fisheries and Forestry<\/a>
Small Things<\/a>
ACT Website<\/a>
Climate Levy on Energy<\/a>
Send us your events<\/a>
Forthcoming events<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
From the Energy Group<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nFlat roofs are notorious for leaking, but they can also be a problem to insulate. If you live under a flat roof with inadequate insulation, you are likely to lose heat in winter and overheat in summer. So what\u2019s the solution?
Unfortunately retrofitting insulation in a flat roof isn\u2019t as easy as adding traditional loft insulation between and above ceiling joists in the loft space of pitched roofs (also referred to as a cold roof insulation because the loft space remains cold). Flat roofs typically do not have easily accessible space between ceiling and roofing material (often the finish is roofing felt). So to gain access, either the ceiling or the roof covering have to be removed to add insulation.
If there is a leak and the felt or outer roofing material has to be repaired\/replaced, this is an opportunity to add insulation. Ideally above the rafters or a combination of this and between rafters. Insulation above rafters is sometimes referred to as \u2018cold roof\u2019 insulation, but the term is misleading when applied to flat roofs. Here<\/a> is a useful explanation.
There are also better roofing materials than felt, but these tend to be more expensive and require skilled installation, something the UK building trade is not famed for!
Drawing curtains to keep the sunshine out in summer and in winter to keep the warm air in helps a lot. Opening windows if there is a marked temperature difference between inside an outside temperatures, this can cool\/warm the room as needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\nFuad Al-Tawil
Energy group coordinator<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nPublic Engagement Group update<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nLast summer began with ACT\u2019s week long festival with the arts (reported elsewhere in this newsletter). After this, members of ACT were busy last summer providing information stalls at local events. Sometimes these are focussed on energy use and carbon reduction, sometimes our wildlife and environmental concerns, and sometimes both!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We went to Kingskerswell and Christow Shows, Turn the Tide Festival in Dawlish, Newton Abbot, Buckfastleigh and Ilsington Fairs, Newton Abbot Library, and a Rotary event at Daignton.
I personally attended Christow Show, and really enjoyed trying to talk to everyone, young and old, despite our stall being positioned right opposite one of the (very effective) loudspeakers. We certainly didn\u2019t miss any of the announcements and commentary on the main events! My highlights were getting a hug from a young person after our chat, and talking to an older couple about portable domestic solar panels. I must say the cream tea was a bit of a highlight too! It was great to spend time with each other and share the sessions between all 7 of us, plus 4 Wildlife Wardens who gave valuable help.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Over the winter we have connected with other groups events, such as the launch of FORT (Friends Of the River Teign). We agreed to focus on connecting with outlying towns within Teignbridge. We met with climate\/environmental groups in Ashburton, and subsequently attended their Thrive event in March this year. Many other community events will have an ACT presence through this summer. Public Engagement group are keen to put on an event for and with members, and to that end we have viewed the film Climate Scam, with a view to a group showing. We have also taken time to contribute to updating our website, and are liaising with others about a possible input to the Devon Schools Climate Ambassadors initiative.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We are really keen to find out from people about their views on the climate and ecological emergency. We try to answer questions where we can, but always we are keen to engage, and to use this to better inform what we can do within ACT. Climate Change can be an emotional subject, but both positive and negative emotions play a part in making changes. What we know is that talking helps at all sorts of levels, and can be a really important trigger to action. The discussions are fascinating; it\u2019s so vital to keep informing ourselves about what turns people on\u2026 and off!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We really appreciate local input to each year\u2019s summer events; so if you are a member of ACT and you like attending your local Fair or Show, please get in touch and we can talk about coming along.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mandy Cole
ACT Public Engagement Group<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Carbon Cutters Update<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nACT Carbon Cutters is a group of keen and concerned people across Teignbridge who have decided to have training in the \u201chow, why and what\u201d of carbon emissions and the effect on the planet\u2019s climate. They can help clarify the evidence-based facts and raise awareness of how our life activities contribute to the problem, locally and globally.
Some individual Carbon Cutters are involved in join projects with Teignbridge District Council, such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2022My Electricity \u2013 how to find out the where energy and costs are going in your home, and how to reduce them<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2022CC Lite training \u2013 short workshops to help understand how and where to start reducing CO2 emissions<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You can join ACT and tick the CC box to receive more information. You may decide that is sufficient for now, or you can become more involved by joining the CC group, and have the full CC training over several instruction sessions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We’re having a meeting next Wednesday (04 June) to give an informal CC course refresher (on request) and discuss practical ways of get our CC message out.<\/strong>
Look out for more Carbon Cutter events, workshops and training \u2013 we\u2019re here to help and to increase knowledge and understanding so that everyone in the community has the opportunity to do something positive, however small.
Have look at our Carbon Cutters web pages for more information.<\/p>\n\n\n\nRobert Gillett
ACT CC support group lead<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nThe Wildlife Warden Report<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nAshton<\/strong> WW Shira gave a really creative and interactive presentation for the Bridford and Teign Valley Gardening Club which she entitled \u201cMurder in the Garden<\/em>\u201c. Shira prepared cards featuring garden wildlife\u2014from mycelium and invertebrates to birds and small mammals\u2014each with details of their diet and vulnerabilities on the back. Some creatures were welcomed by gardeners (e.g., robins and hedgehogs), while others were not (e.g., slugs and greenflies). The group was invited to arrange these creatures in a \u2018garden,\u2019 creating a food web of thriving biodiversity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"This](\"https:\/\/ww.actionclimateteignbridge.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Pesticide.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nHowever, the scenario shifted when new homeowners took over the garden. Unhappy with anything eating their plants or disturbing their lawn, they turned to a big-chain DIY store and the local garden centre to buy pesticides-many of which harm non-target species and aquatic life. And who knew that while neonicotinoids are banned in agriculture, gardeners can still readily purchase them?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The impact on the groups imagined flourishing garden was clear. The group unanimously agreed on the need to stop using chemicals and to dispose of those stored in sheds. Shira then introduced the upcoming launch of Pesticide Free Devon<\/em> in June, which Wildlife Wardens are invited to support, with hopes for a district-wide pesticide collection in the future. What a fabulous way to help people discover the impact they can have for themselves!<\/p>\n\n\n\nVicky Fairs
ACT Wildlife Warden Co-ordinator<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Chair’s Report<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nAround 30 ACT members are interested in helping local schools find out about Climate Change by joining the National, Government supported Climate Ambassador Scheme<\/a> .<\/p>\n\n\n\nKate has also been finalising details for the Children\u2019s Climate concert on the 3rd<\/sup> of July when Teign School will host 2 performances (at 5pm & 6.30pm) for a Children\u2019s Climate Concert. This finale is the culmination of over 120 children from four schools coming together following workshops where they have been able to share their climate concerns through the expressive power of music and sound. Expect an uplifting and motivating conclusion.Volunteers are still needed to help gather the feedback from the children during the two concerts.<\/p>\n\n\n\nFancy helping out? email Kate<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nKate Benham
CHAIR ACTion on Climate in Teignbridge <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n![\"This](\"https:\/\/ww.actionclimateteignbridge.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/WADEbrook-1024x768.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWaterways Around the Dawlish Environment (W.A.D.E) Project<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nAn ambitious new project has been launched by Wildlife Warden and Town Councillor Scott in Dawlish. The Waterways Around the Dawlish Environment (WADE)<\/strong> group aims to get together a band of local volunteers to help care for \u201cThe Brook\u201d, which runs through the centre of the town. The group will focus on clearing debris, removing litter, conducting regular water testing, and will be exploring future planting, to support wildlife, along the riverbanks<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nSo far, there has been a fantastic response to this project, with around 40+ new volunteers signed up and receiving training<\/strong> to become wildlife wardens. We look forward to hearing about what they are getting up to in the months ahead. Please contact either Scott <\/a>or Vicky<\/a> if you would like to find out more about getting involved.<\/p>\n\n\n\nScott Williams
ACT Carbon Cutter Coordinator<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nACT with the ARTS Climate Festival June 2024<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nIn June 2024, ACT hosted an 8 day festival, focusing on the arts. Around 1200 people attended, so many of you may have visited one or more of the 23 events, staged in towns around Teignbridge, but centred on Newton Abbot.
So what have the arts got to do with climate change, which is after all, ACT\u2019s core business? We know that although around 83% of the population in the UK are aware of climate change and its human causes, a large percentage of us do not take much effective action to mitigate or adapt to the growing climate and ecological emergency that is taking place all around us.
There are multiple and complex reasons for this. Amongst these, we know that how people feel about the crises is key. It\u2019s very easy to feel hopeless, helpless, angry, frustrated or fearful about the effects of what is happening. This in turn may lead us to switching off, and convincing ourselves that there\u2019s nothing we can do, or that people with more power, money and responsibility should be taking action instead of us.
This isn\u2019t true however. We know that social movements such as the suffragettes or Black Power have changed the course of history. Tiny ripples can build to make great waves. Importantly, taking what action we can about climate change can help us feel better, and build connections with other like minded people in our community, which in itself can build resilience.
Hence, the idea for the climate festival was born. The twin aims were to inspire people to engage with the climate and ecological crisis through the arts and to help people connect to their imaginative and emotional responses to encourage change. The events included creative arts, exhibitions, performances, music, dance, poetry, film and theatre, many of which were participatory.
A great deal of feedback and data was collected. More than 80% of responses returned suggested people felt more connected to others, would come again and felt the arts was a good way of engaging in this challenging area. Around 50% of responses suggested a change in feelings, thoughts and intention to act (though we did not ask the direction of change). Also, participants may already have been very engaged and committed to the cause before the festival.
By constructively disrupting the status quo for people, we hope that shared experience of climate and nature arts events will lead to increased pro-environmental action. Please visit the website to see more detail and some interpretations of what this innovative occasion could mean for other organisations, and for all of us concerned with climate and ecological activism. We would also welcome your ideas and suggestions for future arts events, using the \u2018Contact Us\u2019 link.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mandy Cole
ACT Public Engagement Group<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Food Farming Fisheries and Forestry<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n4Fs are organising a meeting on the importance of ‘Local Food’ on the 4th of October. More details to follow soon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Betina Winkler
Food Farming Fisheries and Forestry<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nSmall Things<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nI, like most people I meet, hesitate to make big changes to my lifestyle.
I am budget conscious and have no desire to harm to us or future generations of people, plants and animals by increasing the CO2 concentration in our atmosphere.
I have a conflict of interests.
In this article I list some simple things everyone can adopt to reduce their CO2 emissions and often save money.
First I recommend you complete the Teignbridge Climate Action carbon footprint tracker found at https:\/\/actionclimateteignbridge.org\/newsite\/page.php\/page\/carbon-calculator.
This will introduce you to the numbers and get you thinking about your current energy use and carbon emissions.
After that:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Around the house<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- Make sure the heating controls are set to keep you comfortable without wasting energy.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Turn the hot water temperature down if hotter than you need.
Eliminate unnecessary draughts and fully shut windows and doors when trying to keep the house warm.<\/li>\n\n\n\n - Turn devices and lights off when not in use.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Boil only the amount of water you need in kettles and saucepans.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- When heating water or food in a saucepan, put the lid on the pan.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
In the garden<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- Make wood piles and compost from woody and green material rather than burning. Burning releases the stored carbon.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Mow a little less. You\u2019ll save petrol or electricity, and wildlife will be grateful.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Rake autumn leaves into borders and beds rather than burning. The worms will recycle them for you.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
In the car<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- Turn the engine off when idling for more than 30 seconds.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Drive a little slower if you have the time. Fuel consumption increases as speed increases.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- The RAC, AA and others have fuel saving tips on the web.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
I\u2019m hoping you will agree with me, none of these ideas are too inconvenient and each one makes a small difference that adds up.
Once you have completed your carbon footprint tracker you\u2019ll find energy and emissions reduction ideas on a following page.
Let us know how you get on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paul Bloch
ACT Steering<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nACT Website<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nAfter lots of work by lots of different people, a new ACT website will soon be launched – more colourful and easier to use!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nClimate Levy on Energy<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nWill cutting support for renewables cut Environmental and Social charges on energy bills?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
OFGEM\u2019s analysis from October 2021 showed that a proportion of energy bills is accounted for by environmental and social charges, 2.5% for gas and 25% for electricity in 2020. <\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"This](\"https:\/\/cc.actionclimateteignbridge.org\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nBased on 2020 electricity and gas prices<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some have argued that at a time when energy costs are rising that these can be cut to save increasing people\u2019s bills. At the time of this graphic the average dual fuel bill was \u00a31184, so environmental and social charges accounted for \u00a3181.54 or ~15%
Increasing electricity wholesale prices
The cause of increasing bills is an unprecedented increase in the wholesale price of fossil fuels, which increases the wholesale price of electricity as this is principally determined by the most expensive component (natural gas). There is no reason for most other costs to increase in the same proportion.
Over the last year forward electricity wholesale prices have increased sharply<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Increasing electricity wholesale prices<\/strong>
The cause of increasing bills is an unprecedented increase in the wholesale price of fossil fuels, which increases the wholesale price of electricity as this is principally determined by the most expensive component (natural gas). There is no reason for most other costs to increase in the same proportion.
Over the last year forward electricity wholesale prices have increased sharply<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"This](\"https:\/\/cc.actionclimateteignbridge.org\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image-1.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nAs have day ahead wholesale prices<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"This](\"https:\/\/cc.actionclimateteignbridge.org\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image-2.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nReading off from the day ahead baseload contracts the average price for 2020 was \u00a336.04 \/ MWh, whereas for 2021 it was \u00a3127.47 \/ MWh, a 3.45 fold increase.
An electricity bill of \u00a31000 for 2020 breaks down as follows:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Unfortunately retrofitting insulation in a flat roof isn\u2019t as easy as adding traditional loft insulation between and above ceiling joists in the loft space of pitched roofs (also referred to as a cold roof insulation because the loft space remains cold). Flat roofs typically do not have easily accessible space between ceiling and roofing material (often the finish is roofing felt). So to gain access, either the ceiling or the roof covering have to be removed to add insulation.
If there is a leak and the felt or outer roofing material has to be repaired\/replaced, this is an opportunity to add insulation. Ideally above the rafters or a combination of this and between rafters. Insulation above rafters is sometimes referred to as \u2018cold roof\u2019 insulation, but the term is misleading when applied to flat roofs. Here<\/a> is a useful explanation.
There are also better roofing materials than felt, but these tend to be more expensive and require skilled installation, something the UK building trade is not famed for!
Drawing curtains to keep the sunshine out in summer and in winter to keep the warm air in helps a lot. Opening windows if there is a marked temperature difference between inside an outside temperatures, this can cool\/warm the room as needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Fuad Al-Tawil
Energy group coordinator<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n
Public Engagement Group update<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nLast summer began with ACT\u2019s week long festival with the arts (reported elsewhere in this newsletter). After this, members of ACT were busy last summer providing information stalls at local events. Sometimes these are focussed on energy use and carbon reduction, sometimes our wildlife and environmental concerns, and sometimes both!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We went to Kingskerswell and Christow Shows, Turn the Tide Festival in Dawlish, Newton Abbot, Buckfastleigh and Ilsington Fairs, Newton Abbot Library, and a Rotary event at Daignton.
I personally attended Christow Show, and really enjoyed trying to talk to everyone, young and old, despite our stall being positioned right opposite one of the (very effective) loudspeakers. We certainly didn\u2019t miss any of the announcements and commentary on the main events! My highlights were getting a hug from a young person after our chat, and talking to an older couple about portable domestic solar panels. I must say the cream tea was a bit of a highlight too! It was great to spend time with each other and share the sessions between all 7 of us, plus 4 Wildlife Wardens who gave valuable help.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Over the winter we have connected with other groups events, such as the launch of FORT (Friends Of the River Teign). We agreed to focus on connecting with outlying towns within Teignbridge. We met with climate\/environmental groups in Ashburton, and subsequently attended their Thrive event in March this year. Many other community events will have an ACT presence through this summer. Public Engagement group are keen to put on an event for and with members, and to that end we have viewed the film Climate Scam, with a view to a group showing. We have also taken time to contribute to updating our website, and are liaising with others about a possible input to the Devon Schools Climate Ambassadors initiative.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We are really keen to find out from people about their views on the climate and ecological emergency. We try to answer questions where we can, but always we are keen to engage, and to use this to better inform what we can do within ACT. Climate Change can be an emotional subject, but both positive and negative emotions play a part in making changes. What we know is that talking helps at all sorts of levels, and can be a really important trigger to action. The discussions are fascinating; it\u2019s so vital to keep informing ourselves about what turns people on\u2026 and off!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We really appreciate local input to each year\u2019s summer events; so if you are a member of ACT and you like attending your local Fair or Show, please get in touch and we can talk about coming along.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mandy Cole
ACT Public Engagement Group<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Carbon Cutters Update<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nACT Carbon Cutters is a group of keen and concerned people across Teignbridge who have decided to have training in the \u201chow, why and what\u201d of carbon emissions and the effect on the planet\u2019s climate. They can help clarify the evidence-based facts and raise awareness of how our life activities contribute to the problem, locally and globally.
Some individual Carbon Cutters are involved in join projects with Teignbridge District Council, such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2022My Electricity \u2013 how to find out the where energy and costs are going in your home, and how to reduce them<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2022CC Lite training \u2013 short workshops to help understand how and where to start reducing CO2 emissions<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You can join ACT and tick the CC box to receive more information. You may decide that is sufficient for now, or you can become more involved by joining the CC group, and have the full CC training over several instruction sessions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We’re having a meeting next Wednesday (04 June) to give an informal CC course refresher (on request) and discuss practical ways of get our CC message out.<\/strong>
Look out for more Carbon Cutter events, workshops and training \u2013 we\u2019re here to help and to increase knowledge and understanding so that everyone in the community has the opportunity to do something positive, however small.
Have look at our Carbon Cutters web pages for more information.<\/p>\n\n\n\nRobert Gillett
ACT CC support group lead<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nThe Wildlife Warden Report<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nAshton<\/strong> WW Shira gave a really creative and interactive presentation for the Bridford and Teign Valley Gardening Club which she entitled \u201cMurder in the Garden<\/em>\u201c. Shira prepared cards featuring garden wildlife\u2014from mycelium and invertebrates to birds and small mammals\u2014each with details of their diet and vulnerabilities on the back. Some creatures were welcomed by gardeners (e.g., robins and hedgehogs), while others were not (e.g., slugs and greenflies). The group was invited to arrange these creatures in a \u2018garden,\u2019 creating a food web of thriving biodiversity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nHowever, the scenario shifted when new homeowners took over the garden. Unhappy with anything eating their plants or disturbing their lawn, they turned to a big-chain DIY store and the local garden centre to buy pesticides-many of which harm non-target species and aquatic life. And who knew that while neonicotinoids are banned in agriculture, gardeners can still readily purchase them?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The impact on the groups imagined flourishing garden was clear. The group unanimously agreed on the need to stop using chemicals and to dispose of those stored in sheds. Shira then introduced the upcoming launch of Pesticide Free Devon<\/em> in June, which Wildlife Wardens are invited to support, with hopes for a district-wide pesticide collection in the future. What a fabulous way to help people discover the impact they can have for themselves!<\/p>\n\n\n\nVicky Fairs
ACT Wildlife Warden Co-ordinator<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Chair’s Report<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nAround 30 ACT members are interested in helping local schools find out about Climate Change by joining the National, Government supported Climate Ambassador Scheme<\/a> .<\/p>\n\n\n\nKate has also been finalising details for the Children\u2019s Climate concert on the 3rd<\/sup> of July when Teign School will host 2 performances (at 5pm & 6.30pm) for a Children\u2019s Climate Concert. This finale is the culmination of over 120 children from four schools coming together following workshops where they have been able to share their climate concerns through the expressive power of music and sound. Expect an uplifting and motivating conclusion.Volunteers are still needed to help gather the feedback from the children during the two concerts.<\/p>\n\n\n\nFancy helping out? email Kate<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nKate Benham
CHAIR ACTion on Climate in Teignbridge <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWaterways Around the Dawlish Environment (W.A.D.E) Project<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nAn ambitious new project has been launched by Wildlife Warden and Town Councillor Scott in Dawlish. The Waterways Around the Dawlish Environment (WADE)<\/strong> group aims to get together a band of local volunteers to help care for \u201cThe Brook\u201d, which runs through the centre of the town. The group will focus on clearing debris, removing litter, conducting regular water testing, and will be exploring future planting, to support wildlife, along the riverbanks<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nSo far, there has been a fantastic response to this project, with around 40+ new volunteers signed up and receiving training<\/strong> to become wildlife wardens. We look forward to hearing about what they are getting up to in the months ahead. Please contact either Scott <\/a>or Vicky<\/a> if you would like to find out more about getting involved.<\/p>\n\n\n\nScott Williams
ACT Carbon Cutter Coordinator<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nACT with the ARTS Climate Festival June 2024<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nIn June 2024, ACT hosted an 8 day festival, focusing on the arts. Around 1200 people attended, so many of you may have visited one or more of the 23 events, staged in towns around Teignbridge, but centred on Newton Abbot.
So what have the arts got to do with climate change, which is after all, ACT\u2019s core business? We know that although around 83% of the population in the UK are aware of climate change and its human causes, a large percentage of us do not take much effective action to mitigate or adapt to the growing climate and ecological emergency that is taking place all around us.
There are multiple and complex reasons for this. Amongst these, we know that how people feel about the crises is key. It\u2019s very easy to feel hopeless, helpless, angry, frustrated or fearful about the effects of what is happening. This in turn may lead us to switching off, and convincing ourselves that there\u2019s nothing we can do, or that people with more power, money and responsibility should be taking action instead of us.
This isn\u2019t true however. We know that social movements such as the suffragettes or Black Power have changed the course of history. Tiny ripples can build to make great waves. Importantly, taking what action we can about climate change can help us feel better, and build connections with other like minded people in our community, which in itself can build resilience.
Hence, the idea for the climate festival was born. The twin aims were to inspire people to engage with the climate and ecological crisis through the arts and to help people connect to their imaginative and emotional responses to encourage change. The events included creative arts, exhibitions, performances, music, dance, poetry, film and theatre, many of which were participatory.
A great deal of feedback and data was collected. More than 80% of responses returned suggested people felt more connected to others, would come again and felt the arts was a good way of engaging in this challenging area. Around 50% of responses suggested a change in feelings, thoughts and intention to act (though we did not ask the direction of change). Also, participants may already have been very engaged and committed to the cause before the festival.
By constructively disrupting the status quo for people, we hope that shared experience of climate and nature arts events will lead to increased pro-environmental action. Please visit the website to see more detail and some interpretations of what this innovative occasion could mean for other organisations, and for all of us concerned with climate and ecological activism. We would also welcome your ideas and suggestions for future arts events, using the \u2018Contact Us\u2019 link.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mandy Cole
ACT Public Engagement Group<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Food Farming Fisheries and Forestry<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n4Fs are organising a meeting on the importance of ‘Local Food’ on the 4th of October. More details to follow soon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Betina Winkler
Food Farming Fisheries and Forestry<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nSmall Things<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nI, like most people I meet, hesitate to make big changes to my lifestyle.
I am budget conscious and have no desire to harm to us or future generations of people, plants and animals by increasing the CO2 concentration in our atmosphere.
I have a conflict of interests.
In this article I list some simple things everyone can adopt to reduce their CO2 emissions and often save money.
First I recommend you complete the Teignbridge Climate Action carbon footprint tracker found at https:\/\/actionclimateteignbridge.org\/newsite\/page.php\/page\/carbon-calculator.
This will introduce you to the numbers and get you thinking about your current energy use and carbon emissions.
After that:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Around the house<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- Make sure the heating controls are set to keep you comfortable without wasting energy.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Turn the hot water temperature down if hotter than you need.
Eliminate unnecessary draughts and fully shut windows and doors when trying to keep the house warm.<\/li>\n\n\n\n - Turn devices and lights off when not in use.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Boil only the amount of water you need in kettles and saucepans.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- When heating water or food in a saucepan, put the lid on the pan.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
In the garden<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- Make wood piles and compost from woody and green material rather than burning. Burning releases the stored carbon.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Mow a little less. You\u2019ll save petrol or electricity, and wildlife will be grateful.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Rake autumn leaves into borders and beds rather than burning. The worms will recycle them for you.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
In the car<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n- Turn the engine off when idling for more than 30 seconds.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Drive a little slower if you have the time. Fuel consumption increases as speed increases.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- The RAC, AA and others have fuel saving tips on the web.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
I\u2019m hoping you will agree with me, none of these ideas are too inconvenient and each one makes a small difference that adds up.
Once you have completed your carbon footprint tracker you\u2019ll find energy and emissions reduction ideas on a following page.
Let us know how you get on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paul Bloch
ACT Steering<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nACT Website<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nAfter lots of work by lots of different people, a new ACT website will soon be launched – more colourful and easier to use!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nClimate Levy on Energy<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nWill cutting support for renewables cut Environmental and Social charges on energy bills?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
OFGEM\u2019s analysis from October 2021 showed that a proportion of energy bills is accounted for by environmental and social charges, 2.5% for gas and 25% for electricity in 2020. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nBased on 2020 electricity and gas prices<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some have argued that at a time when energy costs are rising that these can be cut to save increasing people\u2019s bills. At the time of this graphic the average dual fuel bill was \u00a31184, so environmental and social charges accounted for \u00a3181.54 or ~15%
Increasing electricity wholesale prices
The cause of increasing bills is an unprecedented increase in the wholesale price of fossil fuels, which increases the wholesale price of electricity as this is principally determined by the most expensive component (natural gas). There is no reason for most other costs to increase in the same proportion.
Over the last year forward electricity wholesale prices have increased sharply<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Increasing electricity wholesale prices<\/strong>
The cause of increasing bills is an unprecedented increase in the wholesale price of fossil fuels, which increases the wholesale price of electricity as this is principally determined by the most expensive component (natural gas). There is no reason for most other costs to increase in the same proportion.
Over the last year forward electricity wholesale prices have increased sharply<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nAs have day ahead wholesale prices<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nReading off from the day ahead baseload contracts the average price for 2020 was \u00a336.04 \/ MWh, whereas for 2021 it was \u00a3127.47 \/ MWh, a 3.45 fold increase.
An electricity bill of \u00a31000 for 2020 breaks down as follows:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I personally attended Christow Show, and really enjoyed trying to talk to everyone, young and old, despite our stall being positioned right opposite one of the (very effective) loudspeakers. We certainly didn\u2019t miss any of the announcements and commentary on the main events! My highlights were getting a hug from a young person after our chat, and talking to an older couple about portable domestic solar panels. I must say the cream tea was a bit of a highlight too! It was great to spend time with each other and share the sessions between all 7 of us, plus 4 Wildlife Wardens who gave valuable help.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
ACT Public Engagement Group<\/p>\n\n\n\n
ACT Carbon Cutters is a group of keen and concerned people across Teignbridge who have decided to have training in the \u201chow, why and what\u201d of carbon emissions and the effect on the planet\u2019s climate. They can help clarify the evidence-based facts and raise awareness of how our life activities contribute to the problem, locally and globally.
Some individual Carbon Cutters are involved in join projects with Teignbridge District Council, such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2022My Electricity \u2013 how to find out the where energy and costs are going in your home, and how to reduce them<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2022CC Lite training \u2013 short workshops to help understand how and where to start reducing CO2 emissions<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You can join ACT and tick the CC box to receive more information. You may decide that is sufficient for now, or you can become more involved by joining the CC group, and have the full CC training over several instruction sessions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We’re having a meeting next Wednesday (04 June) to give an informal CC course refresher (on request) and discuss practical ways of get our CC message out.<\/strong> Robert Gillett Ashton<\/strong> WW Shira gave a really creative and interactive presentation for the Bridford and Teign Valley Gardening Club which she entitled \u201cMurder in the Garden<\/em>\u201c. Shira prepared cards featuring garden wildlife\u2014from mycelium and invertebrates to birds and small mammals\u2014each with details of their diet and vulnerabilities on the back. Some creatures were welcomed by gardeners (e.g., robins and hedgehogs), while others were not (e.g., slugs and greenflies). The group was invited to arrange these creatures in a \u2018garden,\u2019 creating a food web of thriving biodiversity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, the scenario shifted when new homeowners took over the garden. Unhappy with anything eating their plants or disturbing their lawn, they turned to a big-chain DIY store and the local garden centre to buy pesticides-many of which harm non-target species and aquatic life. And who knew that while neonicotinoids are banned in agriculture, gardeners can still readily purchase them?<\/p>\n\n\n\n The impact on the groups imagined flourishing garden was clear. The group unanimously agreed on the need to stop using chemicals and to dispose of those stored in sheds. Shira then introduced the upcoming launch of Pesticide Free Devon<\/em> in June, which Wildlife Wardens are invited to support, with hopes for a district-wide pesticide collection in the future. What a fabulous way to help people discover the impact they can have for themselves!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Vicky Fairs <\/p>\n\n\n\n Around 30 ACT members are interested in helping local schools find out about Climate Change by joining the National, Government supported Climate Ambassador Scheme<\/a> .<\/p>\n\n\n\n Kate has also been finalising details for the Children\u2019s Climate concert on the 3rd<\/sup> of July when Teign School will host 2 performances (at 5pm & 6.30pm) for a Children\u2019s Climate Concert. This finale is the culmination of over 120 children from four schools coming together following workshops where they have been able to share their climate concerns through the expressive power of music and sound. Expect an uplifting and motivating conclusion.Volunteers are still needed to help gather the feedback from the children during the two concerts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Fancy helping out? email Kate<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Kate Benham An ambitious new project has been launched by Wildlife Warden and Town Councillor Scott in Dawlish. The Waterways Around the Dawlish Environment (WADE)<\/strong> group aims to get together a band of local volunteers to help care for \u201cThe Brook\u201d, which runs through the centre of the town. The group will focus on clearing debris, removing litter, conducting regular water testing, and will be exploring future planting, to support wildlife, along the riverbanks<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n So far, there has been a fantastic response to this project, with around 40+ new volunteers signed up and receiving training<\/strong> to become wildlife wardens. We look forward to hearing about what they are getting up to in the months ahead. Please contact either Scott <\/a>or Vicky<\/a> if you would like to find out more about getting involved.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Scott Williams In June 2024, ACT hosted an 8 day festival, focusing on the arts. Around 1200 people attended, so many of you may have visited one or more of the 23 events, staged in towns around Teignbridge, but centred on Newton Abbot. Mandy Cole <\/p>\n\n\n\n 4Fs are organising a meeting on the importance of ‘Local Food’ on the 4th of October. More details to follow soon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Betina Winkler I, like most people I meet, hesitate to make big changes to my lifestyle. Around the house<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n In the garden<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n In the car<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n I\u2019m hoping you will agree with me, none of these ideas are too inconvenient and each one makes a small difference that adds up. Paul Bloch After lots of work by lots of different people, a new ACT website will soon be launched – more colourful and easier to use!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Will cutting support for renewables cut Environmental and Social charges on energy bills?<\/p>\n\n\n\n OFGEM\u2019s analysis from October 2021 showed that a proportion of energy bills is accounted for by environmental and social charges, 2.5% for gas and 25% for electricity in 2020. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Based on 2020 electricity and gas prices<\/p>\n\n\n\n Increasing electricity wholesale prices<\/strong> As have day ahead wholesale prices<\/p>\n\n\n\n Reading off from the day ahead baseload contracts the average price for 2020 was \u00a336.04 \/ MWh, whereas for 2021 it was \u00a3127.47 \/ MWh, a 3.45 fold increase.
Look out for more Carbon Cutter events, workshops and training \u2013 we\u2019re here to help and to increase knowledge and understanding so that everyone in the community has the opportunity to do something positive, however small.
Have look at our Carbon Cutters web pages for more information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
ACT CC support group lead<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nThe Wildlife Warden Report<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
ACT Wildlife Warden Co-ordinator<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nThe Chair’s Report<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
CHAIR ACTion on Climate in Teignbridge <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWaterways Around the Dawlish Environment (W.A.D.E) Project<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
ACT Carbon Cutter Coordinator<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nACT with the ARTS Climate Festival June 2024<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
So what have the arts got to do with climate change, which is after all, ACT\u2019s core business? We know that although around 83% of the population in the UK are aware of climate change and its human causes, a large percentage of us do not take much effective action to mitigate or adapt to the growing climate and ecological emergency that is taking place all around us.
There are multiple and complex reasons for this. Amongst these, we know that how people feel about the crises is key. It\u2019s very easy to feel hopeless, helpless, angry, frustrated or fearful about the effects of what is happening. This in turn may lead us to switching off, and convincing ourselves that there\u2019s nothing we can do, or that people with more power, money and responsibility should be taking action instead of us.
This isn\u2019t true however. We know that social movements such as the suffragettes or Black Power have changed the course of history. Tiny ripples can build to make great waves. Importantly, taking what action we can about climate change can help us feel better, and build connections with other like minded people in our community, which in itself can build resilience.
Hence, the idea for the climate festival was born. The twin aims were to inspire people to engage with the climate and ecological crisis through the arts and to help people connect to their imaginative and emotional responses to encourage change. The events included creative arts, exhibitions, performances, music, dance, poetry, film and theatre, many of which were participatory.
A great deal of feedback and data was collected. More than 80% of responses returned suggested people felt more connected to others, would come again and felt the arts was a good way of engaging in this challenging area. Around 50% of responses suggested a change in feelings, thoughts and intention to act (though we did not ask the direction of change). Also, participants may already have been very engaged and committed to the cause before the festival.
By constructively disrupting the status quo for people, we hope that shared experience of climate and nature arts events will lead to increased pro-environmental action. Please visit the website to see more detail and some interpretations of what this innovative occasion could mean for other organisations, and for all of us concerned with climate and ecological activism. We would also welcome your ideas and suggestions for future arts events, using the \u2018Contact Us\u2019 link.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
ACT Public Engagement Group<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nFood Farming Fisheries and Forestry<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Food Farming Fisheries and Forestry<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nSmall Things<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
I am budget conscious and have no desire to harm to us or future generations of people, plants and animals by increasing the CO2 concentration in our atmosphere.
I have a conflict of interests.
In this article I list some simple things everyone can adopt to reduce their CO2 emissions and often save money.
First I recommend you complete the Teignbridge Climate Action carbon footprint tracker found at https:\/\/actionclimateteignbridge.org\/newsite\/page.php\/page\/carbon-calculator.
This will introduce you to the numbers and get you thinking about your current energy use and carbon emissions.
After that:<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n
Eliminate unnecessary draughts and fully shut windows and doors when trying to keep the house warm.<\/li>\n\n\n\n\n
\n
Once you have completed your carbon footprint tracker you\u2019ll find energy and emissions reduction ideas on a following page.
Let us know how you get on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
ACT Steering<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nACT Website<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nClimate Levy on Energy<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Some have argued that at a time when energy costs are rising that these can be cut to save increasing people\u2019s bills. At the time of this graphic the average dual fuel bill was \u00a31184, so environmental and social charges accounted for \u00a3181.54 or ~15%
Increasing electricity wholesale prices
The cause of increasing bills is an unprecedented increase in the wholesale price of fossil fuels, which increases the wholesale price of electricity as this is principally determined by the most expensive component (natural gas). There is no reason for most other costs to increase in the same proportion.
Over the last year forward electricity wholesale prices have increased sharply<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The cause of increasing bills is an unprecedented increase in the wholesale price of fossil fuels, which increases the wholesale price of electricity as this is principally determined by the most expensive component (natural gas). There is no reason for most other costs to increase in the same proportion.
Over the last year forward electricity wholesale prices have increased sharply<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
An electricity bill of \u00a31000 for 2020 breaks down as follows:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"This](\"https:\/\/cc.actionclimateteignbridge.org\/wordpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/image-3-1024x918.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n