Brid McAuley sent us this update:
Westport Eco-Congregation in conjunction with One Westport (an environmental umbrella group in Westport) ran an extremely successful circular economy day recently in Westport Town Hall.
There were practical demonstrations – bike repair, sewing repair, clothes and toy swap.
NUIG brought a bio gas demonstration model. Local groups had stands on composting, using old coffee grinds and waste digester. Mayo County Council had a stand offering small brown compost bins in an effort to reduce food waste.
The panel of speakers focused on food – growing and buying local avoiding dealing with waste and taking personal responsibility for the gases our everyday habits produce. The panel highlighted how each person can reduce our personal effect on global warming by refusing plastic packaging, repairing etc. We were encouraged to become part of a barter system – sharing resources and skills.
We also examined how we can upgrade our homes, and the need to reuse waste from buildings .
The Theme of the day was CHANGE ONE THING – the public were asked as they left the event what one thing they might change to help with the circular economy.
Rev Suzanne Cousins – Rector of Aughavale Parishes – Westport, Dugort, Castlebar and Achill who is a supportive member of Westport Eco-Congregation has been very active encouraging biodiversity in the grounds of Christ Church Castlebar.
Parishioner Suzie Fry and Rev Suzanne have fenced off a portion of the church grounds and are letting nature take over. Already they have spotted their first Orchid. Rev Suzanne Cousins hopes to roll this project out throughout other church grounds in the group of parishes.
