What is Okehampton doing for World Environment Day?

Next Saturday, June 5th, has been designated World Environment Day by the United Nations.  This year’s theme is 'Many Species, One Planet, One Future’ and also marks the start of the United Nations International Year of Biodiversity.

World Environment Day was established by the United Nations in 1972 and is commemorated every year. It aims to increase worldwide awareness of the environment and give a human face to environmental issues.

West Devon Council members and staff will be staging various activities to highlight the cause. (Most of these are taking place in Tavistock… has anyone any plans for Okehampton?)

On Tuesday June 1st they will be holding a lunchtime swop shop and plant sale with tyre firm ATS checking staff car tyres in the Kilworthy Park car park. Did you know correct tyre pressures can save you £’s as well as reducing your carbon footprint?

The following day, Councillors and staff plan to hold a Waste Free Local Lunch, bringing in food from home, made of local ingredients. The impact of food miles and where to buy local and organic produce will also be highlighted along with the Council’s ‘Reduce, Reuse and Recycle’ initiatives.

During the evening staff will be taking part in a conservation session at Tavistock Viaduct Nature Reserve, supported by Tavi Taskforce.

Cllr Margaret Garton, the Councillors’ green champion, said: "World Environment Day is a fantastic opportunity to raise awareness of the importance of caring for the environment.    The Council is working to address the real problems of climate change which face West Devon’s communities.  We hope you will join us in taking action."