The Farnham Sustainability Festival was met with enthusiasm and positivity (on 22 May) as residents found out about how the town could become more environmentally sustainable and how individuals can help tackle climate change.

“People of all ages and with lots of different interests flocked to Gostrey Meadow to learn how they can reduce their impact on the environment, both individually and collectively,” says Councillor Alan Earwaker, Mayor of Farnham. “We had over 40 stalls showing people how they can make a difference through actions such as changing our diets, doing more for wildlife, cutting waste and using greener transport. I’m very grateful to Farnham Veterinary Hospital who generously sponsored the event.”

Farnham Town Council organised the festival in collaboration with Farnham Community Farm to enable residents to find out about the plans and activities taking place locally to address key sustainability issues and to help people make changes to their lifestyles to help the planet.

The Mayor adds: “It is clear that sustainability matters to lots of people in Farnham and that our residents are open to making changes to tackle important issues like climate change. Residents also look to us at Farnham Town Council and our partners in the borough, county and beyond to ensure that we are doing all we can to ensure sustainability is a key consideration in our policies, plans and practices.” 

Alongside the stalls, speakers gave talks on issues as diverse as reusable nappies, sustainability in schools, the costs of going green and the actions of the Town Council’s ground maintenance to address its environmental impact.

As well as environmental organisations and businesses, the festival focused on wellbeing, with a dedicated wellness area. Music performances throughout the afternoon added to the festival atmosphere.