View image in fullscreen‘How to greenwash’: propane industry tries to rebrand fuel as renewableLobbying group spent nearly $30m on ads touting…
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‘How to greenwash’: propane industry tries to rebrand fuel as renewable
Domestic wood burners having a deadly impact in outside areas
View image in fullscreenDomestic wood burners having a deadly impact in outside areasDeaths due to wood-burning stoves are comparable to those of…
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‘Biggest, baddest’ – but is it the cleanest? World’s largest cruise ship sets sail
View image in fullscreen‘Biggest, baddest’ – but is it the cleanest? World’s largest cruise ship sets sailClaims that Icon of the Seas, the…
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Ministers urged not to play culture wars over species reintroductions in England
View image in fullscreenMinisters urged not to play culture wars over species reintroductions in EnglandExclusive: Head of government taskforce…
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A wolf killed the EU president’s precious pony - then the fight to catch the predator began
After being hunted to near extinction, wolves have returned to Europe. But when one killed Ursula von der Leyen’s family pony, it ignited a…
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Glens, lochs and isles battle to be Scotland’s next national park
View image in fullscreenGlens, lochs and isles battle to be Scotland’s next national park Glen Affric in the Highlands has joined more than 10…
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Greta Thunberg joins protest against expansion of Hampshire airport
View image in fullscreenGreta Thunberg joins protest against expansion of Hampshire airportFarnborough airport submits plans to increase number of…
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To get to net zero, we may have to sell off the UK’s future
View image in fullscreenTo get to net zero, we may have to sell off the UK’s futurePhillip InmanThe cost of decarbonising is vast. Something like…
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Britain’s Big Garden Birdwatch: take pleasure in counting birds, but don’t ignore the growing threat...
View image in fullscreenThe Observer view on Britain’s Big Garden Birdwatch: take pleasure in counting birds, but don’t ignore the threats they…
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Sunak’s anti-green stance exposes his reckless dishonesty. His fate is what matters, the planet can ...
Sunak’s anti-green stance exposes his reckless dishonesty. His fate is what matters, the planet can go hangPolly ToynbeeHe claimed to represent…
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CIWM launches resource ‘match-making’ platform
The Chartered Institution of Wastes Management (CIWM) will this week launch a platform to help local authorities under pressure connect with private-sector contractors with spare resources during the coronavirus pandemic.
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UK black plastic use drops by 26,000 tonnes
The use of black plastic packaging in the UK dropped by 26,000 tonnes between 2017 and 2020, according to a report by Recoup.
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Rebecca Pow thanks waste industry for coronavirus efforts
Environment minister Rebecca Pow has penned a letter praising the waste sector for its efforts during the coronavirus pandemic.
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Delayed plastic straw ban met with disappointment
Defra has announced a delay on the ban on plastic straws, stirrers, and cotton buds due to the coronavirus pandemic, prompting an outcry from the Environmental Audit Committee, a Commons select committee.
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Viridor shares polymer plant plans via virtual exhibition
Viridor will hold a virtual exhibition this week to share its plans for building a polymers reprocessing plant at Dunbar in Scotland with the local community.
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Veolia publishes guide to reopening HWRCs
Veolia yesterday (20 April) launched a guide to help local authorities and contractors safely reopen household waste and recycling centres (HWRCs) during the coronavirus lockdown.
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Industry resists pressure to reopen HWRCs
A poll by Suez has revealed that no local authority representatives (0%) consider a trip to a household waste and recycling centre (HWRC) “essential” under current regulations, despite pressure from Defra to reopen HWRCs.
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More than half of UK businesses perceive lack of government support for recycling
Over half (53%) of UK businesses say they get minimal or no government support on recycling, reveals a new study by Rubbermaid Commercial Products (RCP).
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WRAP publishes guide to ‘best before’ dates
The Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP) has today (23 April) published new guidance on food best before dates for businesses, redistribution organisations, and charities.
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Catholic church in Greater Manchester sells it shares in gas giants BP and Shell after 'taking a sta...
The Catholic church in Greater Manchester and Lancashire is selling shares it has in oil and gas giants BP and Shell, saying they are 'no longer ambitious enough' over the threat posed by global warming. In a strongly-worded statement critical of both global companies, the Diocese of Salford said it wanted to 'take a stand against companies that do not align with our principles and that put their profits ahead of the common good'. The Manchester Evening News understands...
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Online shopping sales have surged – but these are the environmental implications of increased home d...
Home deliveries by van can mean increased emissions – might pedal power offer an answer?
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Public transport in 2030: why the future commute is electric
When you imagine public transport of the future, it’s easy to picture flying trains and driverless buses, hurtling around Fifth Element-style. But the reality of our public transport system in 2030 will likely be somewhat different — with the biggest changes those we can’t see at all.
Rishi Sunak to deliver statement at Downing Street this afternoon
The Prime Minister will deliver a speech today in Downing Street at 4.30pm.It comes after an emergency Cabinet meeting was called on Wednesday (September 20) on the first day of the Commons conference recess. It is understood Rishi Sunak will announce a delay on the 2030 ban on petrol-hungry cars. He could also discuss the commitment to phase out gas boilers and announce a similar delay on that. Last night, he failed to deny reports while Home Secretary Suella Braverman...
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Public transport in 2030: why the future commute is electric
When you imagine public transport of the future, it’s easy to picture flying trains and driverless buses, hurtling around Fifth Element-style. But the reality of our public transport system in 2030 will likely be somewhat different — with the biggest changes those we can’t see at all.
Rishi Sunak statement LIVE as Prime Minister makes net zero announcement
Rishi Sunak is set to issue a statement from Downing Street this afternoon setting out his approach to cutting emissions.Reports suggest the prime minister is poised to announce the watering down of climate change commitments. It comes despite widespread industry backlash and the prospect of a damaging rift in the Tory party. Mr Sunak held a hastily arranged call with Cabinet ministers on Wednesday morning after speculation about his net-zero plans emerged on Tuesday night. A speech had been...
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How Sadiq Khan wants to tackle London's air pollution
Every year, more than 9,000 Londoners die prematurely from long-term exposure to air pollution. Many live in areas where air pollution exceeds safe legal levels — mayor Sadiq Khan has described it as “nothing less than a serious public health crisis”.
Rishi Sunak DENIES making up meat taxes, seven bins and car sharing laws after 'scrapping' them in n...
The Prime Minister insists 'very credible people' had discussed the possibility of a meat tax and compulsory car sharing before he 'ruled them out' in yesterday's eyebrow-raising speech. Rishi Sunak this week revealed his latest environmental plans at a press conference on Wednesday (September 20).Among his controversial proposals to push back the ban on new petrol and diesel car sales by five years and a relaxation on rules about boilers and heat pumps, the PM listed a...
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How Sadiq Khan wants to tackle London's air pollution
Every year, more than 9,000 Londoners die prematurely from long-term exposure to air pollution. Many live in areas where air pollution exceeds safe legal levels — mayor Sadiq Khan has described it as “nothing less than a serious public health crisis”.
Warning as rogue tree fellers strip victim of more than £5,000
An Eccles resident was the victim of an outrageous scam by rogue tree surgeons. Now a warning has been issued in case the gang strike again. The victim was cold called by one of four males working together. They told him they were doing work for a neighbour and offered to prune some trees which they did. In a bulletin issued by the Eccles Neighbourhood Watch it says the gang at first mentioned a price of a few hundred pounds which the victim agreed to. But they then kept...
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How can we make our commute greener?
The desire to move to an electric transport future is clear — but there are also barriers to achieving this transformation at consumer, business and policy levels.
For many of us considering buying an electric vehicle, the most obvious…
Huge new embankment set to be built alongside River Irwell to help protect hundreds of homes from fl...
A 60 metre-long earth embankment is set to be built along a stretch of the River Irwell to link newly built flood defences to higher ground. The Environment Agency has this week lodged plans for the scheme in the Redvales area of Bury. The Bury Point embankment tie in is part of the second phase of flood protection measures after phase one was completed. The flood defence work was commissioned after December 26, 2015 when a major flood event occurred on the River Irwell,...
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How can we make our commute greener?
The desire to move to an electric transport future is clear — but there are also barriers to achieving this transformation at consumer, business and policy levels.
For many of us considering buying an electric vehicle, the most obvious…
The areas most at risk of disappearing underwater by 2050
Huge swathes of the region's coastline are at risk of being lost to the sea within 30 years, a new study has concluded, prompting experts to call for the creation of 'a nationwide strategic approach' to tackle climate change land loss.
One environmental professor said it would 'not be possible to protect every house and business from sea level rise' and predicted 'changes are coming sooner than we might think'.
More than 2,000 homes and businesses face disappearing by the...
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Warning over strange froth people are spotting on their garden plants
UK homeowners are being warned to look out for an unusual froth that can appear in your garden during the summer months. Since the country has been experiencing warmer weather, people have begun spotting the strange substance on their garden plants.
The froth can often be seen clumped onto plant stems or in a patch off grass and typically looks like ball of froth of foam. Homeowners are being urged to keep their eyes peeled and report any sightings of it as it has the...
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Why we need to change our travel habits to tackle global warming
Lockdown has transformed urban areas. Cities are quieter, air is cleaner and more people are walking or cycling around their neighbourhoods. The pandemic has had tough consequences for many, but it has also shown the potential positive environmental impact of making a rapid transition to low-carbon transport and eliminating reliance on fossil fuels.
...
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Tips to reduce food waste could save people £60 a month
Tips on how to reduce food waste could save households up to £60 a month.
Trafford council is set to be posting leaflets through residents’ doors in a bid to help people out of poverty. The partnership between the authority and its contractor Amey PLC, known as OneTrafford, are on a mission to reduce residents’ food bills.
The hope is, by reducing food waste, families could save up to £60 a month. The handy leaflets are set to arrive over the coming weeks and include ideas like…
Why we need to change our travel habits to tackle global warming
Lockdown has transformed urban areas. Cities are quieter, air is cleaner and more people are walking or cycling around their neighbourhoods. The pandemic has had tough consequences for many, but it has also shown the potential positive environmental impact of making a rapid transition to low-carbon transport and eliminating reliance on fossil fuels.
...
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Are self-driving trucks and drones the future of home deliveries?
When it comes to deliveries, we rarely spend time considering how crucial supplies arrive at their destination — until they don’t. “People don’t think about freight and logistics until something doesn’t arrive,” notes Natalie Chapman, head of urban policy at the Freight Transport Association.
UK towns could soon be underwater and will have to move, Environment Agency head warns
Some of the UK’s coastal towns and villages may have to be relocated due to rising sea levels and erosion, the head of the Environment Agency will warn.Sir James Bevan will tell a flooding and coastal erosion conference that the “hardest of all inconvenient truths” is that “in the long term, climate change means that some of our communities – both in this country and around the world – cannot stay where they are”. “That is because while we can come back safely…
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Are self-driving trucks and drones the future of home deliveries?
When it comes to deliveries, we rarely spend time considering how crucial supplies arrive at their destination — until they don’t. “People don’t think about freight and logistics until something doesn’t arrive,” notes Natalie Chapman, head of urban policy at the Freight Transport Association.
Plans for huge care home and 97 flats in Altrincham on former motel site
Plans for a care home and 97 accessible flats are set to be decided this week. The huge site of the former Pelican Pub and Motel on Manchester Road in Altrincham could be transformed into a care home and new accessible flats, if Trafford council’ s planning committee approve it on June 9. The plans, from New Care (Altrincham) Ltd., are to demolish the site’s existing buildings and replace them. The site will be three storeys high, featuring 97 flats (made up of 80…
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Trafford top ten nationally for areas with most outstanding schools
Trafford has been listed in the top ten areas nationally that contain the most outstanding schools. The borough is the only area outside London that made it into the top ten, with a third of its schools achieving the highest possible rating.The prestigious list is based on inspections carried out by education watchdog, Ofsted, for each area of the UK. Trafford sits eighth in the national list, compiled by Money.co.uk, with 35.87pc of the borough’s schools securing an…
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What the UK can learn from Norway's take-up of electric vehicles
China might be home to half of all electric vehicles in the world, with two million domestically built passenger cars used by its population of 1.5 billion, but it is Norway that has the highest penetration per capita in the world.
Given its...
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Public swimming pools ‘can't rule out’ turning temperatures down amid rising costs
There are no plans to put prices up at public swimming pools - or turn the water temperature down - despite the rising costs involved in heating them.Greater Manchester's publicly owned pools and leisure centres are facing a huge increase in energy costs, but intend to continue with 'business as usual', although a spokesperson said the organisation's in charge 'can't rule out' changes in the future. This includes a £200,000 increase in energy costs to run leisure centres in…
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What the UK can learn from Norway's take-up of electric vehicles
China might be home to half of all electric vehicles in the world, with two million domestically built passenger cars used by its population of 1.5 billion, but it is Norway that has the highest penetration per capita in the world.
Given its...
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Do you need to buy an electric car or could you share an EV?
Vehicle ownership in Britain has changed dramatically in the past 50 years. By the start of the 1970s, half of all households owned one or more cars, but by 1981, 15 per cent owned two or more cars — and by 2016, a third of all households had at least two cars at home.
Off-licence barred from alcohol sales after boss 'hid' illegal cigarettes from officials
An off-licence has been barred from selling alcohol after it repeatedly failed to carry out proper age-checks and the owner tried to hide illegal cigarettes from officials.Stockport council licence chiefs also heard how Drinks Allowed - known as Go Local, in Castle Street, Edgeley - had failed to comply with conditions relating to the storage of CCTV footage. A report to the authority’s licensing sub-committee described boss Ashkay Singh Ahuja as demonstrating ‘complete...
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Do you need to buy an electric car or could you share an EV?
Vehicle ownership in Britain has changed dramatically in the past 50 years. By the start of the 1970s, half of all households owned one or more cars, but by 1981, 15 per cent owned two or more cars — and by 2016, a third of all households had at least two cars at home.
Schools to trial temporary road closures around start and finish times this summer
Schools in Stockport are to trial temporary road closures around start and finish times later this year.'School Streets' aim to make the area around schools safer and healthier for pupils and parents, so they are more likely to walk, cycle or scoot there, rather than travel by car. A total of eight primary schools have put themselves forward to pilot a short-term trial before the end of the summer term. A Stockport council spokesperson said the authority was committed to...
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Planning to switch to an electric car? This is what you need to know
Last year saw record numbers of new battery electric cars registered in the UK and in early 2020 there were set to be 23 new models launched this year, plus 10 plug-in hybrids. So for those considering buying an electric car, there has never...
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The Greater Manchester councils, hospitals and university caught up in Russian deals 'fuelling Vladi...
Councils, NHS trusts and a university in Greater Manchester are caught up in Russian deals worth millions of pounds, it has been revealed. As Russian bombs rain down on Ukraine, and the resulting humanitarian crisis worsens, the UK's links to Russia have come under the spotlight. Much of the focus in the UK has centred on Vladimir Putin's allies in London, but tough questions are also being asked here in Greater Manchester. READ MORE: Concerns as Subway worker, 19, with...
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Bolton Wanderers cancel Nigel Farage 'anti net zero' rally amid fan backlash
A rally campaigning for a referendum on 'net zero' that was set to be held at Bolton Wanderers' stadium has been cancelled by the club. The Nigel Farage fronted 'Vote Power Not Poverty' event was set to be held at the University of Bolton Stadium later this month. The campaign's official website describes it as "a cross party, grassroots campaign made up of activists from different parties and from none." It continues: "Our aim is simple. We are demanding a referendum on...
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We put the new Nissan Leaf e+ to the test to see if the electric car is truly family friendly
I’m the kind of person whose phone battery alert is always angrily flashing red. It drains lower and lower until I snatch a frayed charger lead from somewhere and give it a little boost. And then some kind of vital phone session — a work call, an urgent dip into Instagram— pulls it off charge and it’s hovering at 10 per cent once more.
How cities around the world are tackling emissions with green transport
With transport responsible for 22% of the world’s greenhouse gases every year, there has been a rise in new transportation schemes around the globe that aim to reduce carbon emissions.
Similar models to London’s Ultra Low Emission…
Temperatures could soar to 28C in April this year
Temperatures could soar as high as 28C by mid-April as a result of global warming, a weather forecaster has warned.Jim Dale, senior meteorologist at British Weather Services, said hot weather is expected to arrive "fairly early" this year, and that temperatures in the high 20s would be "unsurprising" next month. Daytime temperatures in the UK usually average around 12C during April. READ MORE: The Northern Lights could be visible in England tonight - when and how to catch...
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Sahara dust turning skies orange over Europe could be heading for UK next
The skies in parts of Spain, Germany and Switzerland have turned orange after dust from the Sahara was carried away by Storm Celia.Brits have been warned the dust could arrive in the UK next. The orange glow was first spotted in southern areas of Spain on Monday (March 14), with Madrid and Murcia among the places lit up. Read more: UK's Covid travel rules to be scrapped this week - including passenger locator forms Spanish officials issued extremely poor air quality...
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ULEZ expansion claims to clean London's dirty air
London's Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), the traffic charging scheme targeting disel and other worst polluting vehicles, is due to be significantly expanded next year as the capital steps up efforts to reduce harmful emissions and improve air quality for its inhabitants.
Huge investment in Altrincham continues with road layout changes, new seating areas and cycle lanes
Huge investment into Altrincham town centre is taking another step forward with road layout changes, new seating areas and cycle ways planned.Work is starting from as early as this summer as Trafford council continues its investment in Altrincham town centre with a number of changes, including a reversal of Market Street’s one way system in an attempt to reduce traffic speed. Work is planned to start in early summer 2022 and is due to be completed in late 2023 and is…
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London pollution increases the risks for pregnant women — and their unborn children
Air pollution raises the risk of miscarriage for pregnant women as much as smoking. That was the finding of scientists investigating the impact of air quality on birth outcomes last year, while other studies have shown that pollution can increase the risk of premature birth and low birth weight.
...
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Half a million pounds available for those struggling mentally, financially or physically after covid
Those struggling mentally, financially or physically from the effects of covid are set to benefit from almost £500,000 of funding. People living in Trafford who are affected can get help from eight support groups across the borough, which are being supported by grants from housing group Trafford Housing Trust. A total of £465,000 has been made available following the easing of covid restrictions and will primarily be used to support people dealing with the after effects of…
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London air pollution plummets as coronavirus self-isolation measures keep motorists off roads
London's air pollution levels have decreased by more than a third, as self-isolation measures taken on account of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) keep motorists off the roads.
Recent recordings from The Department of the Environment, Food and...
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Fly-tipper caught dumping freezer in middle of street 'didn’t know it was illegal'
"How anyone can think it’s right to dump waste in the middle of the street when it could and should have been taken to a household recycling centre baffles me"
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These are the mental health issues affecting London – and what you can do about them
Which area of London is the most anxious? Where do people report feeling the most depressed? By looking at data from Babylon’s Healthcheck — a digital tool that provides an assessment of your current and future state of health, based on answers to clinically designed questions — we can see that those living north of the river are more likely to be stressed and anxious; while women and…
Council set to spend less than five per cent of its budget earmarked to fix potholes
Councillors have heard that some workers used to fix potholes have been have been used to cover absences in Bury's waste collection
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How to work from home efficiently if your office is shut down over coronavirus fears
With the country now effectively on lockdown owing to the on-going coronavirus crisis, Britons have been asked to work from home.
Over four million people in the country already work in this way, according to data from the Office of National...
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‘I have to choose between a job I want and a baby - it shouldn't be this way'
“I’m hoping one day soon we’ll be in a position to be able to have a baby, but it never could have happened before I was 30”
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How to work from home efficiently if your office is shut down over coronavirus fears
Britain has now entered into the ‘delay stage’ of the coronavirus prevention strategy, and that might mean more of us will be encouraged to work from home.
Over four million people in the country already work in this way, according to…
'The Christmas I lost everything... and how it changed my life'
'It was like looking out to sea through my letterbox... there was no presents left, there was no Christmas left'
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Why networking is the key ingredient to a successful career
If you asked what got me to where I am today, tactical networking and building meaningful relationships would be near enough top of the list. Networking is a fantastic way to boost your confidence and establish relationships that can yield significant returns for your business or your career.
...
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How to get your start-up off the ground: Top tips from the entrepreneurs
It’s 2016 and I’m standing outside Estée Lauder’s dazzling New York headquarters. To my left, protesters demonstrate in front of Trump Tower. To my right, pure midtown, Big Apple buzz. But nothing can distract me from the task ahead: I’ve been given the opportunity to pitch my business idea to a room of stakeholders from the world’s most recognisable and prestigious…
The controversial traffic measures that have divided a borough in 2021
From planters to pop-up cycle lanes, the measures have proven 'incredibly divisive' this year
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98% of MPs believe compostable packaging can help solve plastic crisis, poll finds
Ninety-eight per cent of MPs believe compostable packaging alternatives can partially solve the UK’s problems with plastic pollution, according to new research.
A poll of 100 of the 650 MPs was conducted by market research agency…
Eleven good things that happened in the world in 2021
From a groundbreaking malaria vaccine to popstar Britney Spears' triumph in court over her conservatorship - here are some of the things we had to celebrate in 2021
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From Zumba to podcasting: How learning a new skill can boost mental wellbeing
Over the past six months, Jenny Stallard has learnt how to make podcasts, and launched her own. Working on Freelance Feels has not only helped her employability, explains the north London-based journalist, but it has also improved her mental health.
...
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The UK beaches set to be wiped out in 30 years because of climate change
The risk of flooding is said to be three times higher than previously forecast
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‘Time is running out’: Greens urge action after latest climate emergency warnings
"We need to remember the long-term cost the climate catastrophe will have on our children and future generations"
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Plastic-eating caterpillars could be pollution-busting secret weapon, study finds
The battle against plastic pollution may be boosted from an unlikely source – hungry caterpillars.
In a recent study, larva of the greater wax moth Galleria mellonella were found capable of consuming and metabolising polyethylene –
Exinction Rebellion hits out at council for lack of action on climate emergency
The authority committed to creating a carbon-neutral borough by 2038 after councillors overwhelmingly voted in favour of setting ambitious environmental goals.
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Wellness lounges and lunchtime play sessions: how London businesses are prioritising mental health
Talking to your employer about depression can be daunting. But when Adam Spreadbury found himself dealing with depression for almost five years, his workplace stepped up and supported him.
Spreadbury, a senior manager at the Bank of England,...
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Clean Air Zone another step closer for Trafford
The scheme will cover the whole of Greater Manchester, and aims to save around 1,200 lives every year
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People who litter could face fines of up to £500 as Tory think tank urges harsher punishment
Fines for littering should be hiked to £500 for a first offence and rise for further infractions, a Conservative think tank backed by prominent MPs including Michael Gove has recommended.
In a wide ranging report urging the UK to become a...
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Clean Air Zone plans given final approval in Trafford
The plans were signed off by executive on Monday and now they've been granted full council approval
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Melissa Hemsley: how I've learned to tackle loneliness and anxiety – and why couples therapy wo...
It was ironically around the publication of her book Eat Happy that Melissa Hemsley faced one of her lowest moments. “I remember it was January 2018 and it was Mental Health Awareness Week so I posted a picture of me and just wrote honestly about how I was feeling,” she says.
ADVERTORIAL: Renew your broadband with a price for life – now that’s Zen
If you’re looking for better broadband, it’s time to make the switch to Zen Internet
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Call for plastic food sachet ban as research reveals 855 billion are used each year
Campaigners against single-use plastics are turning their attention to sachets used for food and other liquids, calling for UK and EU lawmakers to implement an all-out ban.
An open letter, signed by nearly 50 heads of business, politicians and...
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How Low Emission Bus Zones and electric fleets are helping to reduce pollution
In 2018, the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan introduced 12 Low Emission Bus Zones, air pollution hotspots where only buses that meet the cleanest emission standards are allowed.
An evaluation of the zones found that emissions of nitrogen dioxide...
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Resident's plea as recycling firm's expansion plan gets nod
Elsa Recycling Group will operate from an enlarged site combining its current base at Station Road Industrial Estate and the neighbouring Climax Works.
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Aldi announces major change for customers who buy their tea bags
The supermarket giant has issued an important update for shoppers
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London air pollution: How much do we breath in on our commute?
Yolanda Browne normally takes the bus for journeys to and from her home in Stoke Newington, regularly riding the 149 to London Bridge. She has a car, but appreciates the convenience of the bus and since the birth of her daughter August, now four months old, she is also increasingly concerned about air pollution.
...
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Air quality at Islington's primary and secondary schools is improving, data reveals
Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) levels outside primary and secondary schools in Islington have improved over the last two years, recent research suggests.
Islington Council started monitoring air quality around schools in 2018, and its findings reveal...
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The towns that could end up underwater because of rising sea levels
These areas could vanish by 2050 as the climate crisis continues, new research shows
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ADVERTORIAL: Manchester business owners urged to become climate-conscious
Designer Danielle King made the plea during a live Q&A with experts from NatWest on the Manchester Evening News Facebook page
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Hyundai and Kia investment makes UK electric vehicle company one of the country's largest unico...
UK electric vehicle company Arrival has acquired £85m investment from Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Motors Corporation, it was announced today.
Lifting the business to £3bn in value, the deal makes Arrival one of the UK's largest…
Country park to get huge revamp with almost £100k of funding
The money has been secured from Veolia Environmental Trust and Trafford council
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Plant over 105 million trees to cut carbon emissions, says new report
Plant between 90 and 120 million trees to help the UK reach its net zero emissions target by 2050. That's one of the suggestions listed in a new report released today by the Committee on Climate Change.
A detailed examination of the UK's...
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Dougie Poynter: Fight plastic by educating children
You may know him as the bassist of boyband McFly or the winner of I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here 2011. But Dougie Poynter has recently added another achievement to his CV: author of kids’ anti-plastic manual, Plastic Sucks!
Earth Hour 2021 - what time it is in the UK and what happens
People are being encouraged to turn their lights off for Earth Hour 2021, while famous landmarks are also set to be plunged into darkness
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How these four female founders turned their start-up dreams into reality
More than 1,000 businesses are started every day in the UK. But according to Government research, women are half as likely as men to start their own company, creating a “significant pool” of under-utilised talent.
These four…
Thousands of new trees set for Tameside to help tackle climate change
The council has set itself a lofty target for 2021
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Calls for fossil fuel divestment 'virtue signalling', says pension fund chair
Councillors have written to the Greater Manchester Pension Fund urging it to match the region's zero carbon targets
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The neighbours fighting it out on social media over 'divisive' traffic schemes
The planters have shut multiple roads off from rat runners, but redirected traffic down other streets
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Three flood alerts in place across Greater Manchester as Storm Alex hits
Flooding was reported in parts of the region overnight
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Amber 'danger to life' Met Office warning issued for parts of UK
Parts of the UK are affected by the amber warning issued this morning as Storm Alex sweeps in
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Hotline launched to catch fly-tippers in the act as rates soar in lockdown
Callers are being encouraged to take photos and videos if it's safe to do so
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Sections of pop-up cycle lanes between Trafford and Manchester scrapped
A large chunk of the lanes are being removed following complaints that traffic has increased now schools and businesses have reopened
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Speed limit on stretch of M602 to be cut to 60mph
The section of motorway has been 'identified as exceeding' nitrogen dioxide limits - and the trial will be in place for a year
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Seaside holiday towns offering £2k grants in battle against aggressive seagulls
Gulls mugging tourists for chips could soon be a thing of the past
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Asda's new eco initiative could add to shopping bill for unsuspecting customers
The new policy is being piloted in some stores from Monday
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The six things you should never ever put down your kitchen sink
There are a number of things we may put into the sink that we really, really shouldn’t
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The hand-sized spiders coming into your home looking to mate
An expert has said 7.35pm is the peak time for when spiders are spotted lurking around the house amid Spider Season
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Residents are fed up of engines running at level crossings and have taken action
Those living in Hale have had enough and accused the council of not taking any action
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Investigation launched after River Irwell turns green overnight
It's not the first time that the water had changed colour
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Support for A56 cycle lanes grows as 100 show up asking for them to be permanent
Another event has been planned for July 25 which is set to have an even higher attendance
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The surprising natural beauty waiting to be discovered behind Ancoats
"This is one of the last bits that is still grime and industry - it's back door Britain - it as not been gentrified yet."
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Flood alert issued for large areas of Trafford and Stockport today
Bramhall, Stockport, Sale, Altrincham and Urmston are being warned about possible flooding
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Cycle lanes along A56 in Trafford could be removed next month
A major review will be carried out in preparation for schools going back in September
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Plans revealed to drain Wigan quarry where two teenagers have tragically drowned
The company behind the proposals says it could empty the water within 12 weeks
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Another cycle lane removed, just 24 hours after one was reduced
The council announced it had to pull one section of the route going into Timperley back to Sale just yesterday
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ADVERTORIAL: The changes that have helped this school's curriculum 'come to life'
St Hilda's C of E Primary School has also transformed its nursery in time for the next academic year.
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Police break up 100s at party on Formby beach as clean up continues
Although the sun is still shining on Monday following a scorching hot weekend, it's not a pretty sight at Formby beach in Merseyside. Local residents have had to collect litter and other waste that has been left behind after crowds of people flocked to the beauty spot to make the most of the weather. Merseyside Police today said they had to disperse 'hundreds of young people' at a gathering on Saturday night where three people were arrested and fires had to be...
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Pollution levels in Manchester remain dangerously high despite lockdown
Areas of Manchester city centre still recorded ‘dangerously high’ levels of pollution weeks into lockdown, experts have found. In some areas of Manchester nitrogen oxide readings dropped by more than 40 per cent in the three weeks after the coronavirus lockdown began. But several sites, such as the Mancunian Way, continued to have high levels of the pollutant. Scientists at Manchester Metropolitan University say this could be because transport doesn’t…
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Planting begins in Greater Manchester for huge 50 million tree forest
A huge forest stretching from Liverpool to Hull is coming to the North and planting has begun in Greater Manchester. The Great Northern Forest scheme has kickstarted, with plans for more than 50 million trees to be planted in a 120 mile corridor across the north of England within a 25 year window. The forest will connect Liverpool, Manchester and Lancaster to the West with Sheffield, Leeds and Hull to the East. By October 2019, 600,000 trees had already been planted as part…
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'For the first time in 40 years, I feel safe': Cyclists praise new cycle lanes
Cyclists have praised new pop-up cycle lanes installed along the A56 – with one saying it is the “first time they have felt safe in 40 years of commuting”. Trafford Council announced its plans to close one lane of the A56, the main road from the borough into central Manchester, to make space for cyclists and pedestrians earlier this month. Now the scheme is well and truly under way, with more routes being added and new speed restrictions in place.
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Families complain of discarded syringes near hotel housing homeless people
Families living near to a hotel housing homeless people during the coronavirus pandemic say their area is being blighted by anti-social behaviour. Fairways Lodge, in Prestwich, is one of a number of hotels being used to support Greater Manchester's homeless during the crisis. But residents say drug dealing and fights have become commonplace, while discarded syringes have been dumped on driveways and a nearby golf course. Mum Lucy Salem, 33, said she had come across drug...
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School's controversial £45m revamp gets green light following appeal
A special school’s controversial plan for a £45m revamp has been given the green light by the government following a public inquiry. The decision to allow the Seashell Trust to go ahead with the radical overhaul - part-funded by 325 green belt homes - overturns Stockport council’s 2018 refusal of the application. Planning Inspector Michael Boniface heard evidence from the trust, the council and local campaigners the Heald Green Action Group during a six week…
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Study reveals huge fall in air pollution levels in Manchester since lockdown
Air pollution levels have dropped by more than a third in Manchester since the coronavirus pandemic lockdown, according to a new university study. The welcome findings are in common with other UK cities after transport levels plummeted as people and workers stayed at home. The study involved levels of the key pollutant nitrogen dioxide, which mostly comes from combustion engines in vehicles. It found that in Manchester, levels fell by 39 per cent compared to the period...
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Government refuses to promise councils will be paid back for 'catastrophic' financial toll of corona...
The government has declined to reassure town halls that they will be fully paid back for financial losses during the covid-19 crisis - shortfalls local leaders warn would result in ‘catastrophic’ further cuts to frontline services. Read More
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At the start of the pandemic, local authorities were assured by ministers that they would be reimbursed for the extra financial burden of the pandemic, currently predicted to reach more than £500m across…
Drivers now BANNED from leaving cars nearby to visit country park
People are now banned from parking near a popular walking spot after too many were flocking from miles around. The move comes as Trafford Council attempts to ensure people restrict their movements as part of the UK-wide lockdown during the coronavirus outbreak. Sale Water Park, an area of countryside, parkland and a lake, normally attracts hundreds of people every day but council bosses want to restrict visitors to nearby residents who can walk there to exercise. Now, after…
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Council confirm one-off collection of green wheelie bins in Stockport
Council bosses in Stockport have announced a one-off return of green wheelie bin collections for garden waste and food during the coronavirus lockdown. The council said extra HGV drivers have been trained and other workers have returned to the frontline after periods of self-isolation. But there will only be one collection. The council said an 'ad-hoc' service would operate over the next three weeks, but green bins would not be emptied again until the lockdown ends....
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No canal pollution after major blaze at industrial estate in Hyde
The Environment Agency has said there's no evidence to suggest a large amount of chemicals seeped into a canal after a huge blaze at an industrial estate. More than 50 firefighters tackled the raging blaze at the Adamson Industrial Estate on Croft Road in Hyde on Saturday night. A number of business units were destroyed as the flames reached three separate brick buildings at the site. Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service said a large amount of chemicals were stored...
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Trafford Council brings back green bin collections - for two weeks only
Trafford Council has temporarily brought back its green waste bin collections on a limited basis. The authority said coronavirus is continuing to impact collections and its ability to provide a full waste and recycling service. However, the new limited service will start next week and will run for two weeks, finishing on Friday April 17. The council explained this is only possible by diverting resources from other services, but will allow for a one off final collection to…
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Bin lorry crew attacked by group of youths during round in Trafford
A bin lorry crew was attacked and pelted with a brick during a round in Trafford. The workers were collecting bins in Partington when a group of youths attacked them, throwing objects at the crew and a brick into the back of their lorry. The incident took place at the junction of Derbyshire Road and Tulip Road on Wednesday. The damaged lorry had to be taken out of service to be repaired. Thankfully, no one was hurt in the incident which Trafford Council confirmed was reported…
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Hospice plans to build new £20m facility - part funded by 40 homes
St Ann’s Hospice plans to build a £20m new facility on land next to its site in Heald Green. Once built, the current hospice would be demolished to make way for 40 new homes - with the new residential development part-funding the project, The hospice celebrates its 50th anniversary next year, having been built in 1971 as an extension to the Victorian era St Ann’s Hospital, which became part of Cheadle Royal in 1887. Paul Jarvis, director of business…
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Customers told to report takeaways not complying with lockdown rules
People are being asked to report any takeaways not complying with the new restrictions during the COVID-19 outbreak. Restaurants and cafes offering takeaway food have been instructed by Trafford Council to carefully follow Government advice to keep their customers safe. Guidelines have been issued to ensure social distancing rules are being followed to prevent the spread of coronavirus, especially when customers pick up their food from premises. These guidelines include: No…
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Big changes to bin collections in Stockport amid coronavirus crisis
Big changes to bin collections are set to be introduced in Stockport amid the coronavirus pandemic. The council says the number of workers being forced to self-isolate means services cannot continue as normal. Green bin collections - for garden waste and cut flowers - have been cancelled until further notice. Food waste from caddies can now be put in the black bins for non-recyclable rubbish. Blue paper and cardboard recycling bins will now be collected every four weeks,...
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All the bin changes across Greater Manchester so far in coronavirus crisis
Bin collections are being disrupted in parts of Greater Manchester as the coronavirus crisis piles pressure on local authorities. Residents have been asked to stop putting out certain types of waste for the foreseeable future, while also taking steps to stop the virus spreading to council workers. All househould waste recycling centres in Greater Manchester - except Wigan - are also closed until further notice. With staff numbers dwindling, councils are facing difficult…
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Some bin collections cancelled in Bury due to coronavirus outbreak
Some bin collections in Bury are being cancelled as the council prioritises waste collections amid coronavirus fears. Emptying grey, green and blue bins will now be the priority for Bury Council. This mean brown bin collections are being cancelled this week, from March 23 to March 27, and next week, from March 30 to April 3. In Bury, grey rubbish bins are for non-recyclable bagged waste and non-recyclable plastics. Green bins are for paper and cardboard. Blue bins are for...
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Council makes changes to bin collections and closes playgrounds
Trafford Council has suspended green bin collections and closed its playgrounds over the COVID-19 outbreak - and is reviewing whether or not it will need to close parks too. As thousands thronged to beauty spots, parks and national reserves over the weekend, Trafford Council is pleading with its residents to adhere to social distancing rules as the spread of coronavirus accelerates. The authority is now reviewing how some services run in the borough in order to keep both its…
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The adorable way Trafford schoolkids thanked mums everywhere
An adorable video featuring children from a Trafford school thanks mums everywhere this Mother’s Day. Children from St Hilda’s C of E Primary School in Firswood, Stretford, made cards for their mums and learnt a poem off by heart to recite for the video. Their headteacher, Carla McCoy, praised the ‘lovely’ video for Tiny Happy People, a venture which is designed to tackle the pre-school language and communication gap in Greater Manchester.
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Leisure centres and halls in Bury are closing to halt the spread of coronavirus
Public spaces across Bury are set to shut in a bid to reduce the transmission of coronavirus. Prime Minister Boris Johnson has told pubs, restaurants, gyms and leisure centres to shut after tonight to reduce social contact. Following the announcement, council bosses confirmed they would be temporarily shutting Castle Leisure Centre in Bury, as well as leisure centres in Ramsbottom and Radcliffe. The borough’s three civic halls will also be closed: Ramsbottom Civic,
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complaints against Trafford council over maligned bin collection services upheld
Formal complaints against Trafford council over its maligned bin collection services have been upheld by a watchdog. The town hall now has to change the way it investigates missed bin collections after the Local Government Ombudsman received a large 'volume of complaints' over the authority's handling of its waste management service. Bin collections in Trafford, which the council contracted out to Amey PLC to provide as part of the OneTrafford partnership, have been a…
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Flytipper slapped with £3,500 fine after posing as removals man
A man who told homeowners he would remove their rubbish before dumping it in the street has been fined £3,500. Sandor Petrovics pleaded guilty to two counts of flytipping at Manchester Magistrates Court on Tuesday after a long investigation by Bury Council and the police. The 54-year-old, from Wainsford Walk, Oldham, was found to have ditched two piles of rubbish on the same day after posting on websites as Kevin Roy Gardening Service and telling people he could…
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Dozens of footbridges hit by flooding to be fixed
Dozens of footbridges which have been completely washed away or damaged by flooding are to be replaced and repaired in Oldham. Bosses have agreed that 'urgent works' should take place to walkways, footpaths and bridges hit by recent floods to the tune of £725k. This includes the important link road Salmon Fields which links Shaw Road and Higginshaw Lane in Royton. It has been forced to close as a result of severe flooding several times last year and was raised as a...
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International Women's Day: The Manchester women fighting for a greener world
Manchester is no stranger to revolutionary women. If anything, the city has been home to some of the most progressive women in history, women who have led the way in tackling some of the biggest issues of their day. Indeed, Manchester was at the heart of the national campaign for equal voting rights, with the formidable Emmeline Pankhurst spearheading the suffragette movement alongside other esteemed Mancunians including novelist Elizabeth Gaskell, and Middleton botanist...
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Mum 'heartbroken' as council cremate her beloved cat without her knowledge after it was killed by do...
An animal lover has been left ‘heartbroken’ after Stockport council workers sent her dead cat for cremation without her knowledge. The authority says it scanned ‘Snaps’ - Gemma Robertshaw’s beloved 18-year-old Persian moggy - but was unable to detect an electronic chip, leaving it no choice but to dispose of the body. But Gemma says the pet was wearing a collar tag with her contact details, which she claims would have been found by anyone…
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Council leader 'tired of environmental warriors' as she defends pension fund's fossil fuels investme...
The chair of the UK's largest local government pension scheme has defended its climate credentials, saying she is 'tired of all the constant attacks from environmental warriors'. Greater Manchester Pension Fund (GMPF) chair Brenda Warrington, who is also the leader of Tameside council, was speaking during a debate over a motion she tabled for the town hall to declare a climate emergency. The GMPF has come under fire from environmental groups including Fossil Free...
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Manchester council unveils all the ways it will halve its greenhouse gas emissions by 2025
Manchester council has issued a call to ‘collective action’ on the climate crisis after unveiling ambitious proposals to halve its greenhouse gas emissions by 2025. Having pledged to be carbon-neutral within 18 years, the town hall wants to reduce its output by making changes to its buildings, energy consumption and transport fleet. Nearly 35,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide has been cut in the last decade, though the council still produces around 30,000 tonnes.
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The little litter heroes picking up other people's rubbish to win 'a place on the plane' for Ant and...
A family from Atherton in Greater Manchester, have been filling up bags of rubbish in their local area in the hope of winning a "once in a lifetime" holiday to Disneyland. Along with their mum, Beki Crier, 30, the siblings came up with the idea of making billboards and litter picking around the Hag Fold estate after watching Saturday Night Takeaway over the weekend. But Beki says what started out as a wish to bag 'a place on the plane' has turned into a fun hobby for...
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Stockport council leader hails 'people's budget' - but Lib Dems 'dispirited' as climate fund plan is...
Town hall leader Elise Wilson hailed Stockport council ’s ‘people’s budget’ as Labour's financial plan for the coming year was passed by a majority vote. It includes a 3.99pc hike to council tax as well as a £4.2m package of cuts to crisis funding, museums, libraries and transport for special needs children. Council tax payers will also stump up an average of £24 for the Greater Manchester Mayor’s general and policing precepts,
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Tories call for return of fortnightly grey bin collections to 'clean up' Bury
Bury council's three-weekly grey bin collection policy is 'hurting' families and should be scrapped, the Conservative opposition group has claimed. The Tories said they would restore fortnightly collections as one of a number of proposals in an alternative budget presented to a town hall meeting. Bury was the first council in England to move to three-weekly collections of household waste in 2014 and the policy is credited with increasing recycling rates in the borough. But...
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Aldi removes plastic lids from own-brand products as part of its ongoing campaign
Aldi is scrapping the use of single-use plastics on some of its own-brand products. Ready-to-drink coffee products and own-brand fresh cream will be sold without plastic lids as part of the initiative. The step will be rolled out across more than 780 UK stores from March. And it will follow on from the removal of plastic lids from its large Greek-style flavoured yogurt pots which is due to begin at the end of February. The supermarket giant is set to save 68 million pieces...
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This is exactly how Bury Council intends to justify its tax bill rise of nearly 5 per cent
Council tax is set to rise by nearly five per cent as local authorities face a funding gap of £40m. Local Democracy Reporter JOSEPH TIMAN reveals which services and new projects the council will fund in future years. Bury Council was expected to set its budget for the next financial year at the town hall last night. After cumulative cuts of £102m since 2010, the council, which now works together with the health commissioner, still faces a multi-million-pound…
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Trafford Council prepared to step in if flooding in borough gets worse
A council said it will step in if it has to if flooding in the borough gets worse. Trafford Council is prepared to take action if the flooding situation in the borough forces people from their homes. Currently, floodwaters have not put anyone at risk of having to abandon their properties, but Trafford Council has reassured people it is ready to step in if it has to. Over the weekend, high river levels led to the Environment Agency setting up a 24 hour control room near the…
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Greater Manchester leaders renew calls for government to urgently provide funding towards their Clea...
Greater Manchester leaders have renewed calls for the government to urgently provide funding towards their Clean Air Plan ahead of a parliamentary debate on new environmental legislation. A ‘scandalous’ impasse has delayed the introduction of a Clean Air Zone (CAZ) , which would charge drivers of the most polluting vehicles using the region’s roads from 2021. The Clean Air Plan would also provide money to allow businesses to upgrade their vehicles, as well…
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The second chance for those whose who have taken 'the wrong path' in Salford - many who pursue a lif...
For many who pursue a life of crime there is no way back. Once they serve their time, they come out, take up where they left off, and are jailed again. But for 30 young adults in Salford there may be a chance to escape that revolving door. In a scheme called Jobs not Prison they will be helped to get work. Broughton Trust, based in the city, will run the project and has already found local companies willing to offer full and part-time employment, and a dedicated worker...
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Salfordians come together to fix up community centre a month after vandals destroyed displays
Salford residents have banded together to repair the damage done to their community centre by reckless vandals. Last month the Boothstown Community Centre in Worsley was found with destroyed hanging baskets, smashed bedding plant boxes and planters had been ripped off the walls of the cherished community centre. The vandals also caused more than £1,000 worth of damage to the plant watering system of the building. The community centre is a well loved and well used…
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Wrecked by the river, the street by the River Irwell that has flooded again after years waiting for ...
Boxing Day 2015 is a day that still gives people from Prestolee sleepless nights. The River Irwell, which flows through the village, burst its banks during Storm Eva and caused severe, devastating flooding. Riverside Drive was the worst street affected, with 57 homes reporting some level of flood damage. Fast forward four and a bit years later, on Sunday February 9, and the residents of Riverside Drive had to relive the nightmare. Storm Ciara caused chaos all around...
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Bury recycling centres and tips: Opening times and directions
Whether it be a spring clean or mass summer clear-out, sometimes we just need to get rid of all the stuff we no longer need. While most things can be chucked into your regular rubbish and recycling bins, some items need a bit of extra attention. For example, if you've bought a new hoover and want to recycle your old one, or if you've managed to hack back your overgrown garden and find you have bags and bags of green waste. Thankfully, you can take it all to your local tip...
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Bolton recycling centres and tips: Opening times and directions
When things start to get a bit overcrowded and cluttered, sometimes you just need a good clear-out. While most things can be chucked into your regular rubbish and recycling bins, some items just won't cut it. For example, if you've bought a new hoover and want to recycle your old one, or if you've managed to hack back your overgrown garden and find you have bags and bags of green waste. Thankfully, you can take it all to your local tip and recycling centre free of charge...
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Inside the grim US mega sheds where chickens are washed in chlorine - that Brits could soon be eatin...
Chickens in the United States are packed in grim sheds before they are killed and washed in chlorine - a type of meat that could soon come to the UK. The birds are genetically changed to grow super-fast and suffer a string of health problems, the Mirror reports. A campaigner described the conditions as "cruel". Government environment secretary George Eustice has not ruled out chlorine-washed meat being sold here. The chickens are crammed into an airless room with limited...
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Manchester could look very different... and very green if this video is to be believed
Manchester could look very different and very green if this video is anything to go by. Campaigners have shared a video of what well-known areas of Manchester would look like if more plant life was allowed to grow there. With living walls and pocket parks springing up in cities across the UK and a greater focus on reducing air pollution nationally, campaigners Groundwork Greater Manchester said they want to remind people how much space there is in urban areas for...
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The fuels for open fires and wood burners that will start being banned next year
Polluting fuels used in household wood burners and fires will be phased out from next year, the government has announced. The sale of the two most polluting fuels - coal and wet wood - for domestic burning will be banned by 2023 in a bid to cut air pollution. The government hopes the move will encourage people to use cleaner fuels in their home - like dry wood or manufactured solid fuels - which are also more efficient to burn. The sale of bags of coal for home use will be...
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The ‘life-changing’ secure children’s home that’s just been rated outstanding
A secure children’s home in Salford has received an ‘outstanding’ grade by inspectors Ofsted, who said it offered children ‘life-changing opportunities’. Inspectors who visited the home in January found children that feel safe, trust the adults who support them and go on to exceed expectations. One child told inspectors about staff: “‘They have brought me up.’” Ofsted does not publish the names or addresses of…
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Seven months after it declared a climate emergency, activists says Bury council 'has done nothing'
Bury Council has been accused of not acting on its pledges seven months after declaring a climate emergency. The local authority voted through an “aspiration” to become carbon neutral by 2030 in July. It also committed to creating a cross-party stakeholder panel to develop a strategic plan and report back to the council within six months. But speaking at a town hall meeting, Bury Climate Action campaigner Susan Sollazzi asked councillors why a plan has still not…
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Six severe flood warnings as a month's worth of rain set to fall in 24 hours in parts of north west ...
Six 'danger to life' flood warnings are in place today with some parts of the UK bracing for a months worth of rain fall in 24 hours. Forecasters are warning that the weather will remain unsettled in the aftermath of Storm Dennis as communities near the Welsh border prepare for further flooding. Persistent rain has seen the Met Office place yellow weather warnings for rain across parts of southern Scotland and Strathclyde, northwestern England and Wales. England has...
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Shrewsbury town centre centre cut off by flood water as parts of UK in 'uncharted territory'
Areas of the UK are in “uncharted territory” after record levels of flooding - with more heavy rain forecast for later in the week. Eight severe flood warnings, indicating a danger to life, were in place on Tuesday morning (February 18) across England and Wales in the wake of Storm Dennis. Shrewsbury town centre in Shropshire is cut off by road due to flooding after the River Severn reached its highest level there in 20 years. Communities across the country are…
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Extinction Rebellion dig up Cambridge University lawn in environment protest
Extinction Rebellion members have dug up a lawn outside a Cambridge University college in their latest environmental protest. The climate activists cited the college's "ties with fossil fuel companies" and the "destruction of nature" as their reasons behind the stunt. One protester chained themselves to a tree during the action at Trinity College. Activists then took dug-up mud to a local Barclays Bank branch. The protest appears to have stemmed from the college's role in...
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Row over school expansion reignites after plans for five extra classrooms submitted
A row over a primary school’s controversial plans to expand has reignited after it submitted plans to build five extra classrooms. Gatley Primary School wants to increase its yearly intake to three classes - meaning it would accept 90, rather than 60, youngsters every September. In six years' time there would be an extra 180 youngsters being educated at the Hawthorn Road school, an academy run by the Education Learning Trust. The school began progressing plans for its...
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How this new £10m reservoir stopped Salford from flooding during Storm Ciara
Salford was placed at risk of flooding by the Environment Agency last weekend but the city's brand new £10m flood defences managed to stay strong. Storm Ciara battered Greater Manchester last weekend with heavy gusts, rain and many homes up and down the region flooded and damaged. Unlike neighbouring Bury, which saw residents evacuated from their homes as the River Irwell bursts its banks and parks destroyed as Storm Ciara swept through, Salford fared much better.
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Manchester council branded ‘hypocrites’ after approving 700-space car park next to airport
Plans for a new 729-space car park near Manchester Airport have been approved - despite pleas from climate activists to reject it after the town hall declared a climate emergency. Manchester City Council gave the green light to the temporary car park, just off Enterprise Way, in yesterday’s planning meeting. The e-commerce company the Hut Group behind the application said the car park was necessary for its employees near the airport while construction work was…
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Bury is in the depths of a climate emergency - but there's 'no money' and no sign of an action plan ...
Bury Council has been accused of not acting on its pledges seven months after declaring a climate emergency. The local authority voted through an “aspiration” to become carbon neutral by 2030 in July. It also committed to creating a cross-party stakeholder panel to develop a strategic plan and report back to the council within six months. But speaking at a town hall meeting, Bury Climate Action campaigner Susan Sollazzi asked councillors why a plan has still…
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The wait is over - this is how Sale Moor and Hale Village is set to look after huge redevelopment
Big changes could be on the way for two Trafford villages, and the deadline for people having their say on the plans has been extended. Draft plans for Sale Moor and Hale Village have been put forward by Trafford Council and a public consultation was due to finish on February 11, but this has now been extended by four weeks until March 10. Images show the plans in detail and some of the proposals include road changes, speed limit reductions and changes to shop front…
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ADVERTORIAL: How to make the most of that one room which is 'not used for six months of the year'
Most people love the idea of having a conservatory, but making it a year-round investment can be tricky. During the summer months it feels fantastic having that extra space to soak up the sunshine and relax with the family. But when winter comes rolling around it can be a completely different story. With cold air seeping in the room can either go unused for half of the year, or you see your heating bills sky rocket. In fact, according to the Energy Saving Trust you…
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Ban on sale of petrol and diesel cars brought forward to 2035
Motorists will be unable to buy petrol or diesel cars from 2035 to 2040 at the latest, under new Government rules to tackle climate change. The end sale date has been moved forward in a bid to help achieve the UK's target of being carbon neutral by 2050. On Tuesday, the Prime Minister, alongside David Attenborough, met local primary school children at the Science Museum in London before speaking to experts, campaigners and politicians. Boris Johnson urged countries to...
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Ryanair adverts banned for 'misleading' customers over CO2 emissions claims
Ryanair adverts claiming it is "Europe's...low CO2 emissions airline" have been banned for 'misleading' customers. The Advertising Standards Agency (ASA) has ruled that the budget airline broke rules over its environmental claims in a number of adverts in press, TV, and radio from September 2019. While both the TV and radio advert referenced "low CO2 emissions", the print ad claimed "Ryanair has the lowest carbon emissions of any major airline", resulting in complaints....
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A million trees could be planted across Wigan by 2030
A million trees could be planted across Wigan by 2030. The council, which declared a climate emergency last year, wants to plant saplings for every person aged under 18 in the borough - 80,000 - in the first year. Trees will be planted in parks, nature reserves and green spaces after young people expressed concerns for the future of air quality in the borough. The first batch of trees were planted in Walmsley Park last week by pupils from Ince CE Primary School. Tulisa,...
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Storm Ciara: 150 properties were flooded in Greater Manchester and the number could rise further
About 150 properties in Greater Manchester are believed to have been flooded during Storm Ciara - and the number could rise further. But hundreds more homes and businesses were 'successfully protected' by flood defence schemes, the Environment Secretary Theresa Villiers said. Greater Manchester was battered by hurricane force winds and widespread flooding as Sunday's storm caused havoc. Bury bore the brunt of the damage with residents in Radcliffe and Redvales evacuated...
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Major resurfacing work is going to 'block up' roads at busy town centre ring road - and cost the cou...
Resurfacing the ring road around Bury town centre would cost the local authority around £4m, the councillor responsible for the borough’s highways has said. Cllr Alan Quinn, cabinet member for environment, warned that the council will soon be left with no choice but to close parts of the A58, Peel Way, Derby Way and Jubilee Way for repair work. He said: “We need to look at spending money on the ring road because that’s getting hammered. If we get to…
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Bury residents braced for more heavy rain and wind after flooding hits the town
Residents in Bury are bracing themselves for more heavy rain and wind after flooding hit the borough. Dozens of people living in Redvales were forced to leave their homes when the River Irwell burst its banks on Sunday morning following a deluge of rainfall. Homes on a number of streets were left under several feet of water. Families were seen leaving properties in Warth Road carrying bags filled with clothes as water levels on the street rose to several feet.
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Storm Ciara LIVE: More flood warnings as Greater Manchester reels from a day of chaos and UK faces b...
Parts of the UK are braced for blizzards and up to 20cm of snow today in the wake of Storm Ciara - as Greater Manchester wakes up to more flood warnings. Some areas saw a month and a half's rainfall in just 24 hours and gusts of more than 90 miles per hour swept across the country on Sunday, bringing widespread flooding. Thousands of people were left without power, some homes were evacuated, buildings were damaged and sporting occasions postponed - including Manchester City's home game...
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Maligned bin firm Amey gets stay of execution as council extends deadline
A council has extended its deadline for a "repeatedly failing" bin company, despite months of complaints from residents and the service remaining an "extreme concern". Trafford Council gave their waste contractor firm, Amey, until Friday January 31 to dramatically improve services for residents, but say "the service is not yet meeting standards residents expect". Problems with Amey's bin collections, alongside its street and park cleansing services, have persisted for…
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Impacts of summer heatwaves on air quality
Guy Fawkes Night triggers spikes in air pollution
New path begins at restored watercourse
Deeside charity focuses on improving and developing walking and cycling access in the Aberdeen area
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Strong Deeside turnout for salmon film premiere
Assessing climate change impacts on the water quality of Scottish standing waters
SEPA Press Release
SEPA Press Release
http://media.sepa.org.uk
Wed, 09 Mar 2022 11:35:48 GMT
SEPA
Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) Latest Press Releases
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SEPA asks waste sector to respond to storage and treatment of healthcare waste...
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Recycling company fined £20,000 after SEPA investigation uncovers largest single illegal export of h...
A leading UK and European recycling company was fined £20,000 at Airdrie Sheriff Court today (16 November 2021) after Scotland’s environmental regulator uncovered the largest single illegal export of household waste from Scotland.
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Protecting Scotland's wild Atlantic salmon ‘a national priority' as protection zones and sea lice th...
Protecting Scotland’s wild Atlantic salmon is a ‘national priority’, said SEPA – Scotland’s environmental watchdog today (3rd December 2021), launching a consultation on proposed wild salmon protection zones and a sea lice exposure threshold that applies in these zones.
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Official Statistics Publication for Scotland - Household waste summary (Jan-Dec 2020), waste landfil...
Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) statisticians have published Official Statistics today (7 December 2021) which provide detail of Household Waste collected across all Local Authorities during 2020, as well as waste landfilled and incinerated in Scotland in 2020.
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Successful season for Ayr (South Beach) as improvement works result in ‘Good’ status
The 2021 Bathing Water season has been a success for Ayr (South Beach) with water samples showing the beach achieved ‘Good’ status for the past season.
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99% of Scotland’s bathing waters passed environmental water quality standards this summer
Scotland’s bathing water quality is the best it has been since 2015 when tighter standards first came into force, with almost all sites now classified as sufficient or better for next season. On top of that 32 out of 85 - (38%) are rated as ‘excellent’, the highest number since the annual classifications were reported from 2015.
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Creating a cleaner Scotland
Scottish Government seek views on new litter and fly-tipping strategy.
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CSIC and SEPA to drive net zero ambitions in construction Innovation centre and environmental regula...
Construction Scotland Innovation Centre (CSIC) and the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) have signed a formal agreement to support a sustainable future for the built environment, championing innovation and inclusive growth.
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Transforming Scotland’s waters: Actions to improve the water environment
The ecological condition of Scotland’s water environment will be further protected and improved for future generations through a comprehensive new action plan, backed by enhanced resources and a multi-million pound package of investment.
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New partnership to support net zero in Scotland
Enhanced environmental monitoring will support Scotland’s journey to net zero and beyond, thanks to a new partnership between the University of Stirling and the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA).
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31 significant waste crime sites targeted by SEPA as BBC Disclosure focuses on serious & organised c...
Scottish Environment Protection Agency staff and their work tackling waste crime will be featured as part of investigative journalism programme BBC Disclosure on Monday 31 January at 7pm.
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Funding boost for nature and climate adaptation in Deeside
River partnership shortlisted for Nature of Scotland Award
The partnership in charge of looking after the river Dee catchment in north east Scotland is a finalist in the Nature of Scotland Awards.
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New Campaign Aims To Increase Japanese Knotweed Awareness
A new initiative is urging members of the public to be on the lookout for cases of Japanese Knotweed in their local area.
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A bloomin’ year for algae and cyanobacteria
Summers are becoming hotter and drier, with winter rainfall and storm frequency predicted to increase. These effects of climate change are ideal conditions to also give rise to increased incidence of algal and blue-green algal (cyanobacteria) blooms in Scottish freshwaters.
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Scottish partnership identifies Covid-19 RNA traces through waste water monitoring
Clean Air Day Scotland 2020
Clean Air Day 2020
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MOSSMORRAN UPDATE : 14:30 Tuesday 6 October 2020
Chris Dailly, Head of Environmental Performance at SEPA, said:
“Whilst we are pleased that the site has now returned to normal operations and is no longer flaring, we remain frustrated by the frequency of flaring and the flow of information from the operator. We’ve also clearly heard the impact flaring continues to have on local communities through over 740 reports to us since Sunday..."
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Mossmorran Unplanned Flaring Update : 20:00 Monday 05/10/20
“Whilst its again important to stress that limited, controlled flaring is an authorised and important safety feature of industrial sites, we’ve heard clearly from over 380 reports to SEPA of the impact this further flaring event is having on local communities.
“Having referred ExxonMobil Chemical Limited to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) for consideration of prosecution related to Easter 2019 flaring, we remain frustrated by the frequency of flaring…
Re-use derelict land to support economic growth and wellbeing, says Taskforce
Derelict land is a wasted resource that should help to deliver national ambitions for a fair and green recovery, a national taskforce said today.
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Climate changing carbon dioxide emissions from SEPA regulated industrial sites drop 57% in a decade
The Scottish Pollutant Release Inventory (SPRI) 2019 data – this year experimental official statistics – was published today [29 September 2020] by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency. This year’s data covers annual mass releases of specified pollutants to air and water and information on off-site waste transfers from 1,327 SEPA regulated industrial sites.
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Official Statistics Publication for Scotland : Waste landfilled in Scotland – 2019 and Waste inciner...
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) has published Official Statistics today (29 September 2020) which provide details of waste landfilled and incinerated in Scotland for calendar year 2019.
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SEPA warns of low water levels across North of the country
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) has warned of an increasing water scarcity situation in the North-East and Highlands, with businesses which abstract water all year round being encouraged to take steps to reduce their water usage.
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SEPA cracks down on illegal dumpers advertising on social media
SEPA enforcement team targets criminals and chancers using social media to sell illegal waste services / Regulator reminds waste companies that compliance with the law is non-negotiable / Illegal operators contributing to fly-tipping and other illegal waste activity / Public are reminded - don’t engage the services of people who are not authorised.
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Marie Macklin CBE’s HALO Kilmarnock recognised as global #MoveTheDate environmental exemplar
Scottish businesswoman Marie Macklin’s urban regeneration project in Kilmarnock is being singled out by SEPA and international sustainability organisation Global Footprint Network for its net zero vision.
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Appeal for information on illegal dumping in North Lanarkshire River
Scotland’s environmental watchdog, the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), today (Tuesday 4 August) is appealing for information as part of an investigation into illegal dumping of household and commercial waste in the Shank Burn near to the A73 (Stirling Road) towards Brackenhirst.
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Scotland to take centre stage in global #MoveTheDate conversation
SEPA is taking the #MoveTheDate conversation into homes and businesses across the world this August, as it hosts the global launch of Earth Overshoot Day.
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Pints down the plughole the last resort for struggling landlords
Pouring out-of-date pints down the plughole is the last resort for struggling pub landlords.
That is the advice from Scotland’s environmental watchdog, the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), concerned about the environmental impact of the disposal of waste alcohol.
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Beltie Burn Restoration Blog
Blog on the Restoration of the Beltie Burn by the Dee Partnership Group
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Beltie Burn Restoration
Transboundary air pollution continues despite Covid-19 lockdown
European Transboundary Air Quality and Covid-19
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Pioneering Scottish partnership could be the model for global green recovery says global authority o...
Volans, a global think tank and strategic advisory firm founded by John Elkington, the originator of the ‘triple-bottom-line’ of profit, people and planet, and advisor to major companies across the globe, has called out a pioneering Scottish partnership as a potential model for global economic recovery.
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SEPA begins analysis of first samples in COVID-19 RNA fragment waste water monitoring trial
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) has begun its analysis work on the first samples of waste water (sewage) in a new trial aimed at helping monitor the spread of coronavirus in Scotland.
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SEPA and Scottish Enterprise aligning to deliver 'strong green spine’ and support Scotland’s green r...
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) today confirmed that it would accelerate its strategic partnership with Scottish Enterprise to support Scotland’s green recovery.
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Bob Downes : A Climate for Change
SEPA Chair Bob Downes writes for Holyrood Magazine on the climate for change.
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Scottish business sustainability leader announced as SEPA Deputy Chair
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) today (17 April 2020) announced the appointment of board member Michelle Francis to the post of Deputy Chair.
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Scottish Environment Protection Agency staff support national effort to combat virus
Key workers across the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) have stepped up to further assist the national effort against coronavirus.
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Campaign launches to help people in Scotland manage their waste during the coronavirus pandemic
Some waste and recycling collection services across Scotland are temporarily disrupted as a result of the coronavirus.
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SEPA to submit a report to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service for consideration of prose...
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) today (Wednesday 13 May 2020) announced its intention to submit a report to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service for consideration of prosecution in relation to the flaring at the Mossmorran complex during April 2019.
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Scotland's waste workers keep the nation recycling
Further information for Scotland's commercial recyclers and waste managers launched at managingourwaste.scot/wastemanagement
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Ambitious new route map points the way to £1 billion for nature conservation
A route map towards unlocking £1 billion of new investment for nature conservation in Scotland has been published by the Scottish Wildlife Trust and the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA). This work comes at a critical time as society plans a green recovery from the social and economic upheaval caused by COVID-19, and continues to respond to the urgent climate and ecological emergencies.
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SEPA supports Scottish business adapt to public health emergency
06 April 2020
Warning that “if you deliberately do the wrong thing, you’ll get the uncompromising regulator your behaviour deserves.”
SEPA confirms next steps in its response to the “biggest public health emergency in living memory.”
SEPA will play its role in helping Scotland get through this public health emergency.
SEPA will partner with other regulators,
Official Statistics Publication for Scotland - Waste from all sources
31 March 2020
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) has published Official Statistics today (31 March 2020) which provide details of waste from households, construction and demolition, and commerce and industry for calendar year 2018.
These are known as the Waste from all Sources statistics and they are published at:
Data on waste are collected to monitor policy...
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Greenhouse gas emissions from Scottish businesses fell by over 50% since 2008
20 March 2020
Scottish Pollutant Release Inventory (SPRI) data for 2018 published by SEPA. SPRI is a database of annual mass releases of specified pollutants to air, water and land from SEPA regulated industrial sites.
Scottish Pollutant Release Inventory (SPRI) data for 2018 published by SEPA. SPRI is a database of annual mass releases of specified pollutants to air, water and land...
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Salmon return to Renfrewshire river for first time in more than 100 years
18 February 2020
Salmon have been spotted swimming upstream in an Inverclyde river for the first time in over 100 years following the successful adaptation of a redundant industrial weir.
Work has been carried out at Gotter Water Weir, in Quarrier’s Village, by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) to lower the existing height of the weir and increase the downstream…
Scottish business environmental compliance over 90% for fourth year in a row in latest SEPA data
19 February 2020
Scottish business environmental compliance was over 90% for the fourth year in a row in the latest figures published by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA). 90.5% of Scottish regulated business sites were assessed as compliant (Excellent’, ‘Good’ or ‘Broadly Compliant’) in 2018. 76.2% of Scottish regulated sites (almost 4,000 sites) rated…
‘Unplanned flaring’ during Mossmorran restart a reminder of why short and medium term solution criti...
14 February 2020
‘Unplanned flaring’ during ExxonMobil Chemical Limited’s Mossmorran restart is a reminder of why short and medium term solution are critical to addressing ‘unacceptable flaring’ said the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) today (Friday 14 February 2020).
While elevated flaring is a possibility during restart it was not…
Official Statistics Publication for Scotland - Household waste summary, waste landfilled, waste inc...
17 September 2019
Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) statisticians have published Official Statistics today (17 September 2019) which provide detail of Household Waste collected across all Local Authorities during 2018.
Carbon impact of Scottish waste decreasing
Total household waste generated in Scotland decreasing
More household waste recycled than landfilled for...
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Next steps consultation on regulation of finfish aquaculture sector
03 October 2019
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) has today (3 October, 2019) launched a public consultation to inform the next steps in regulation of the finfish aquaculture sector.
The technical consultation follows one of the agency’s largest consultation programmes in late 2018, the publication of its Finfish Aquaculture Sector Plan and the introduction…
Radioactivity in Food and the Environment 2018 report shows all levels and concentrations of radioac...
24 October 2019
The latest Radioactivity in Food and the Environment Report (RIFE 24) has been published today (24 October 2019) and shows that doses of radioactivity received by people in Scotland remain well within international dose limits.
The highest dose for a member of the public reported in Scotland from an authorised discharge was 0.035 millisievert (mSv) - around one...
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Vote for Scotland’s best sustainable business in the 20th VIBES awards
07 November 2019
Time is running out to vote in Scotland’s best-known green awards scheme. Since their inception in 1999, the VIBES Scottish Environment Business Awards have recognised more than 150 businesses that have taken significant steps to improve or reduce their impact on the environment, often saving money in the process.
To celebrate the competition’s 20th…
Scottish businesses celebrate sustainability success at 20th VIBES Awards
14 November 2019
Scotland’s commitment to tackling increasing environmental challenges has been celebrated with twelve companies being recognised for their commitment to sustainability at the 20th VIBES Scottish Environment Business Awards.
Over 400 business figures came together at the prestigious VIBES Awards today (14th November 2019) to celebrate the achievements of innovative...
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Supporting Scottish farmers on water abstraction returns
18 December 2019
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency today (Wednesday 18 December 2019) confirmed that Scottish farmers and landowners who hold a water abstraction licence would have until 31 January 2020 to submit annual returns.
The returns, a mandatory requirement for licence holders, ensure that their abstraction of water doesn’t impact on the ecology of…
Appointment of the Members of the Board of the Scottish Environment Protection Agency
18 December 2019
Cabinet Secretary for the Environment, Climate Change and Land Reform, Roseanna Cunningham MSP, today announced the appointment of Craig Hume, Julie Hutchison, Dr Harpreet Kohli and Philip Matthews as Members of the Board of the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA).
Appointments
Craig Hume heads up Utopia, a computer manufacturer in Ayrshire who…
Landmark agreement launched to create exemplar new town at Shawfair
19 December 2019
Sustainable Growth Agreement signed by SEPA, Midlothian Council and Shawfair is the first of its kind in the planning and construction sector to encourage collaboration and partnership working.
Sustainable Growth Agreement signed by SEPA, Midlothian Council and Shawfair LLP
First of its kind in the planning and construction sector to encourage collaboration...
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SEPA Mossmorran investigation in final stages as agency’s regulation drives investment to make flari...
19 December 2019
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) today (19 December 2019) updated stakeholders on the progress of its regulatory investigation into “unacceptable” flaring by ExxonMobil Chemical Limited during Easter 2019.
The agency also outlined the steps it continues to take to tackle the unacceptable impacts of flaring from the operation of the…
SEPA continues its twin-track approach to ExxonMobil – ongoing monitoring whilst working to address ...
24 January 2020
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) today (Friday 24 January 2020), confirmed the continuation of its ‘twin-track’ approach to the responsible restart of ExxonMobil Chemical Ltd’s Mossmorran facility in Fife.
With the agency having regular contact with the operator regarding its planned restart, SEPA confirmed it stands ready with a…
Celebrating the world wide web – meet the web team behind Scotland’s environment web (part 2)
The world wide web has revolutionised how we communicate, find and use information and data. In celebration of the launch of the world wide web twenty-seven years ago on 23rd August, this is the second of a two part blog that is shining a light on the web team that brought Scotland’s environment web to life.
Scotland’s environment web August 23, 2018
None of what you see today on Scotland’s environment web would have been possible…
Rainfall observers – long service awards
In this blog, we’re shining a light on, and celebrating, some of Scotland’s most dedicated volunteer rainfall observers, who have been actively recording rainfall data, every day for decades – some dating as far back as the 1960’s. This is extremely valuable data to record in all weathers – even during the dry spell that we’ve had recently.
Scotland's environment web September 12, 2018
Celebrating dedication and…
HabMoS - NWSS and Freshwater data release
The Habitat Map of Scotland is very pleased to be able to make publicly available a substantial amount of new habitat data for woodlands and freshwater.
Philippa Vigano - SNH October 01, 2018
All of the Native Woodland Survey Scotland (NWSS) information, collected by the Forestry Commission Scotland is now available in the Habitat map of Scotland on Scotland’s environment map. This data includes our internationally recognised woodlands types such as...
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Waste Data Strategy - Practitioners' workshop
A second data practitioners’ event was organised by the Waste Data Strategy Delivery Board and held in Perth on the 30th January 2019.
Fiona Weatherly, SEPA's Dataflows Unit February 20, 2019
The aim of this event was for attendees to:
Hear about progress made on the strategy’s action plan and how waste data is being used by others
Learn more about the electronic waste tracking project
Feed in ideas to the reporting outputs of the waste…
Bog Squad Blog
Butterfly Conservation Scotland’s ‘Bog Squad’ team is a volunteer task force, created to carry out rehabilitation works on damaged peatlands across Scotland with funding from Scottish Natural Heritage’s led-Peatland ACTION project. David Hill, Peatland Restoration Project Officer tells us more.
David Hill, Peatland Restoration Project officer March 15, 2019
Bog Squad volunteers at Langlands Moss (© Sara Green/Butterfly…
European Waste Shipment Regulation
Waste shipments enable resources to be transported for use in industries across the world, creating a valuable commodity from discarded materials. In a modern world where natural resources are increasingly scarce, waste shipments offer an alternative to the over-use of our planet’s resources.
Laura Gillan, SEPA Graduate Trainee April 04, 2019
Scotland lacks the capacity to reprocess the amount of waste that it generates and as such we currently…
All things Invasive with the Scottish Invasive Species Initiative
This week is national Invasive Species Week, 13-17 May, which aims to raise awareness across Great Britain about invasive species and their impacts. Vicky Hilton from the Scottish Invasive Species Initiative explains more in this latest blog.
Vicky Hilton , Scottish Invasive Species Initiative May 13, 2019
Being a project all about invasive species, here at the Scottish Invasive Species Initiative, we’re quite excited about having a whole week of lots…
The webTeam helping keep the SEWEB cogs turning
Our webTeam have been updating software behind the scenes and keeping Scotland's environment website up-to-date and getting us match-fit for the summer of 2019
Scotland's environment web June 27, 2019
This spring the webTeam were on a mission to upgrade the Umbraco Content Management System (CMS) supporting several SEPA websites including:
In keeping with cyber security and best practice, the webteam upgraded the Umbraco CMS to the latest version...
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Improving access to spatial data from Scottish Government funded research
To improve sharing and reuse of spatial data from the Scottish Government’s funded research on natural assets (that is not available anywhere else), partners created a web app (Natural Asset Register- Data Portal, NAR-DP) and established a steering group to aid continuous improvement of the NAR-DP, gradually adding datasets related to Scotland’s soils, land, biodiversity, water and cultural heritage. Kit Macleod and David Donnelly from The James Hutton Institute, tell us more.
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How can Scotland become a resilient Hydro Nation? Stakeholder perspectives
As part of his first year PhD studies with the Hydro Nation Scholars programme, Kerr Adams interviewed 28 stakeholders associated with freshwater environments in Scotland. The following blog is a round-up of his findings of stakeholder perspectives on knowledge gaps that need to be addressed to help Scotland's freshwater environments become resilient to future change.
Kerr Adams January 24, 2020
During my first year as a Hydro Nation Scholar with focus...
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Huge flood clear-up in Devon and Cornwall as Wales and England battered by rain
A Butlin's resort has had to close for the week and Exeter Airport was hit by flash floodingA clear-up operation is under way after a month's worth of rain fell in just a couple of hours on Sunday. The heaviest rain fell in part of Devon, Cornwall, and Somerset but some roads in south Wales were left flooded.Exeter Airport was forced to close at around 2pm on Sunday after floodwater engulfed the terminal building, causing chaos and grounding flights for the remainder of the day. Staff at the...
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The costs, benefits and huge challenges to reaching 'net zero' according to politicians and experts
A debate this month about the cost of six new bungalows at a council meeting in Swansea was part of a larger story about what it takes to re-engineer our homes, transport, industry and agriculture to slash greenhouse gas emissions. It emerged that the properties built by the council in West Cross had low-carbon technology costing £51,000 each, taking the total construction cost to £283,000 per bungalow.The council wants to build 1,000 energy-efficient rental homes over…
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Woman developed rare life-threatening condition after swimming in sea with sewage
A 22-year-old woman ended up needing multiple blood transfusions and dialysis when she went swimming off the Welsh coast hours after a “suspected sewage spill” on a bank holiday weekend. Caitlin Edwards developed E. coli which led to haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS), a rare condition damaging her kidneys, after swimming at Amroth in Pembrokeshire last summer.Her mum Jayne Etherington said the five-month ordeal was "absolutely horrendous" as she looked on helplessly…
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Woman developed rare life-threatening condition after swimming in sea with sewage
A 22-year-old woman ended up needing multiple blood transfusions and dialysis when she went swimming off the Welsh coast hours after a “suspected sewage spill” on a bank holiday weekend. Caitlin Edwards developed E. coli which led to haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS), a rare condition damaging her kidneys, after swimming at Amroth in Pembrokeshire last summer.Her mum Jayne Etherington said the five-month ordeal was "absolutely horrendous" as she looked on helplessly…
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The story behind Oriel Jones, the Cardiff butcher taking the foodie scene by storm
A Welshman gave up his career as a primary school teacher to take up farming and take the Cardiff foodie scene by storm. Shaun Jones, 36, grew up on a farm in Ceredigion and his father and grandfather before him were both butchers. But for a young Shaun farming seemed like too much hard work with the 4am starts and long hours. Teaching year four at a local primary school seemed like a much better option. However, in his mid-twenties and looking towards the next stage of...
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The story behind Oriel Jones, the Cardiff butcher taking the foodie scene by storm
A Welshman gave up his career as a primary school teacher to take up farming and take the Cardiff foodie scene by storm. Shaun Jones, 36, grew up on a farm in Ceredigion and his father and grandfather before him were both butchers. But for a young Shaun farming seemed like too much hard work with the 4am starts and long hours. Teaching year four at a local primary school seemed like a much better option. However, in his mid-twenties and looking towards the next stage of...
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'Why the 20mph speed limit plan for Wales is a fantastic idea' | Will Hayward
On September 17 new legislation will come into force that will reduce the speed limit on most of Wales’ 30mph limit roads down to 20mph. This Welsh Government plan has been met with scepticism, confusion and (often fabricated) fury by their political opponents. As a journalist, nothing would make my life easier than if the 20mph policy was a dumb one. However, after a lot of research and weighing up the evidence I am forced to conclude that the policy isn’t just good,
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'We are really running out of time' warns scientist as Swansea University study says wildfires dange...
The risk of wildfires is rising faster than climate models have predicted, and a large area of burned forest in eastern Siberia has nearly doubled in 20 years, a study co-authored by Swansea University researchers has found. The study said hot dry conditions conducive to wildfires - known as fire weather - was increasing as the climate changed, making landscapes more susceptible to burning more often and more severely.The annual length of the fire weather season globally...
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Make it harder for people to Tarmac over their front gardens and put down artificial lawns - says We...
A scheme that rewards farmers for reducing the amount of polluting run-off which washes from fields into rivers should be considered, a Welsh Water director has said. Steve Wilson said he believed the idea had merit and that it would be brought up at this month's Royal Welsh Show as part of a discussion about problematic river catchment areas where new developments are on hold.Mr Wilson also felt that planning controls should be considered to make it harder for...
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Five new wind farm sites in sea off Wales identified by Crown Estate
Five areas in the sea off Wales have been mapped out for the development of floating offshore wind schemes, the Crown Estate has said.The organisation - an independent commercial business that manages lands and holdings belonging to the Queen - has identified five broad “areas of search” for potential windfarm sites. They will utilise innovative technology that can be deployed in deeper water with higher wind than conventional offshore wind farms, to support efforts to...
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Campaigners appalled that thousands of tonnes of rubbish from Swansea is incinerated in England
Much of Swansea's black bag waste now ends up more than 200 miles away in Bedfordshire, which hasn't gone down well with campaigners in the English county. Swansea Council stopped burying black bag waste at the city's Tir John landfill site earlier this year - to the relief of people living in nearby Port Tennant - and made agreements with two waste contractors to handle it.
A lot of this non-recyclable waste is now taken by one of the contractors, Geminor UK, to be...
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Land to be bought for tree-planting to replace woodland lost to wind farms
More land for tree planting is to be bought by Wales's environment body to compensate for woodland cut down for wind farms. Natural Resources Wales (NRW) chiefs have agreed to acquire sites totalling 260 hectares - the same area of woodland it manages on behalf of the Welsh Government which is expected to be lost to new renewable energy projects up to 2026.Buying the land and planting trees on it is expected to cost just over £8 million, and is on top of 350 hectares that...
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What this UK minister said about winter gas supplies, Wales' electricity grid and a new nuclear powe...
A UK minister has disagreed with Welsh MPs who put it to him that Wales's electricity grid infrastructure was not fit for purpose. Greg Hands, Minister of State for Energy, Clean Growth and Climate Change, said he felt the grid was working well in Wales "within the constraints of the system".But he said it would need a lot of investment to accommodate an anticipated doubling of demand by 2050 as more and more of the UK's transport and heating sectors were electrified. Mr...
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New commission to look at building a barrage or lagoons in the Severn Estuary
A new commission will look again at whether a barrage or tidal lagoons could be built in the Severn Estuary to generate green energy from the tides.The estuary has the second largest tidal range in the world and previously-mooted schemes have been estimated to have huge potential to generate renewable electricity. Earlier schemes have never been taken forward, despite expensive feasibility work being done, amid opposition due to the impact on bird life in the Estuary, the...
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Wales' first net carbon zero school and how it works
At first glance it looks like any other new build primary, but South Point Primary in Rhoose is radically different to all other schools in Wales. It is the country's first ever net carbon zero school and its design will be used to help inform future builds. The revolutionary design means greenhouse gas emissions will be slashed, neutralising the building’s environmental impact. Read more: A longer school day is being trialled in schools in Wales
Pupils...
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People in Wales disagree on whether speed limits should be changed to 20mph
A law to reduce speed limits across most residential areas is to be brought forward in Wales.The Welsh Government intends to make it law for most 30mph speed limits to change to 20mph in April 2023. There has been mixed reaction to the proposal, with some people saying it is a good thing, and others feeling negative towards towards the plan. Read more: A law to change the speed limit to 20mph across Wales is coming next year. Here's what people said when we asked them if...
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Massive landfill site where people claimed dead animals were secretly being buried is finally closin...
Tir John holds two million tonnes of rubbish but it won't take any more black bag waste from this month
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10 things you can do to help the planet for Plastic Free July
It's easier than you think to go plastic-free
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Air quality project to create 50 new jobs at factory site
A company based in south Wales is set to employ engineers and manufacturers as part of a pilot scheme aimed at improving air quality in residential areas
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First electric buses in Wales to launch next week in Newport
The zero-emission buses, which promise to improve air quality, are the first of their kind in the country after a trial in Cardiff in 2018
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We have 'responsibility' to tackle pollution, says Newport council
Newport has among the highest levels of air pollution in Wales, a factor which has also been linked to an increased chance of complications caused by Covid-19
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The massive piles of rubbish in Llanelli communities which people keep adding to
Residents in some areas of Llanelli say that their community is being used as a 'dumping ground'
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Air pollution rose in two streets in Carmarthenshire during lockdown
These were outliers though as most towns experienced cleaner air and significantly lower levels of harmful particles
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ADVERTORIAL: Wales’ biggest recycling campaign launches in bid to become a zero waste nation
The 'Be Mighty, Recycle' campaign has been backed by a celebrity chef
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The reason Newport has one of best recycling rates is 'due to bin size'
The city council has said the new roll-out has been a massive success
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Plans for 'world-first' power station conversion scheme near Newport
The coal-fired facility in Uskmouth would generate electricity from waste-derived fuel pellets
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Solar park planned on the Gwent Levels in Newport
The development is controversial with local residents and wildlife groups, who are concerned about the effect on the local environment
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Thousands of fish wiped out by pollution that devastated river
It has taken years to build up aquatic life in the river - which has now been wiped out in hours
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Hospitals are having to find a way to dispose of millions of items of PPE
They can't just be thrown in the bin
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The battle to make homes in Wales more energy efficient and cheap to run
It's complex and costly but the market could shift as younger buyers and tenants demand high environmental standards
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Plans to convert power station into sustainable energy producer
Developers have revealed details of an ambitious plan to convert a coal-fired power station into a sustainable energy producer. The project proposes to convert the existing coal-fired power plant at Uskmouth Power Station, near Newport, to operate as a plant which would generate electricity through the combustion of waste derived fuel pellets. SIMEC Atlantis Energy said the waste pellets would be composed of about 50% plastic and 50% material such as paper, cardboard and...
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Plans to convert power station into sustainable energy producer
Developers have revealed details of an ambitious plan to convert a coal-fired power station into a sustainable energy producer. The project proposes to convert the existing coal-fired power plant at Uskmouth Power Station, near Newport, to operate as a plant which would generate electricity through the combustion of waste derived fuel pellets. SIMEC Atlantis Energy said the waste pellets would be composed of about 50% plastic and 50% material such as paper, cardboard and...
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How lockdown gives us a glimpse of the Wales we want to see | Clare Pillman
This period of enforced change to our daily lives has undoubtedly been a time of discovery for all of us – some positive, some less so. We have rediscovered the wealth of compassion engrained within our communities, seen the speed at which financial support systems can be established to help those most in need, and seen afresh what is really important in our lives – and what is not. For me, it’s been an opportunity to reconnect with the landscape around…
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How lockdown gives us a glimpse of the Wales we want to see | Clare Pillman
This period of enforced change to our daily lives has undoubtedly been a time of discovery for all of us – some positive, some less so. We have rediscovered the wealth of compassion engrained within our communities, seen the speed at which financial support systems can be established to help those most in need, and seen afresh what is really important in our lives – and what is not. For me, it’s been an opportunity to reconnect with the landscape around…
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Days after McDonalds reopens, customers are dumping empty wrappers
Some people heading to Wale’s newly reopened McDonald’s drive-thrus have simply dumped their litter in car parks and beauty spots. The fast-food giant reopened 16 outlets in south Wales this week for people driving to collect meals - but there were almost immediate reports of the company’s packaging being tossed out of car windows, left at picnic spots and even blowing on beaches. People in Wales have said they can tell McDonalds has opened in their area…
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Days after McDonalds reopens, customers are dumping empty wrappers
Some people heading to Wale’s newly reopened McDonald’s drive-thrus have simply dumped their litter in car parks and beauty spots. The fast-food giant reopened 16 outlets in south Wales this week for people driving to collect meals - but there were almost immediate reports of the company’s packaging being tossed out of car windows, left at picnic spots and even blowing on beaches. People in Wales have said they can tell McDonalds has opened in their area…
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'The thunder of the lorries is gone': The change on Swansea's busiest roads
Amid the health and economic misery of the coronavirus pandemic, the air we breathe in towns and cities appears to have changed. The sharp drop in traffic has cut levels of a key pollutant, nitrogen dioxide: primarily emitted from vehicle exhausts. "Ultimately the polluters are us," said Professor Paul Lewis, of Swansea University. But weather patterns and wind direction, he said, also played an important part in air quality. Pollutants disperse more slowly when high...
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Will a low-carbon society form when Covid-19 lockdown ends? | Stuart Capstick
For some time now, many of us working on climate change have been calling for radical change at all levels, from how policy is designed, to the structure of the economy, to the practices and behaviours that shape our everyday lives. In making these calls, we have never felt this would be easy or straightforward. There has been a recognition, too, that the wrong type of social transformation could undermine the things that matter to our societies, and our wellbeing as...
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Wild flowers will be planted on top of Cardiff bus stops to help attract bees
Wild flowers will be planted on top of Cardiff bus stops to help attract bees. As part of work to redesign the layout of the city centre "bee bus stops" will spring up at various locations. More than 10 bus stops will soon get the makeover as part of the Cardiff Council project. The wild flowers and plants will aim to attract various insects, and have already been used in other cities across the world. A council spokesman said: "Cardiff Council is re-designing roads in the...
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How to check when you bins will be collected for every Welsh council
The coronavirus crisis is putting a hug amount of pressure on public services. A key responsibilities of councils collecting rubbish and recycling but this to is becoming a challenge during the outbreak. Many local authorities have already had to cut back on their services. We have collected the latest information from all Wales' local authorities so you know when you need to put your bins out, and what you are allowed to put out. All councils are doing things slightly...
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The small shop that's just opened and is determined to survive
Coronavirus has managed to disrupt most businesses up and down the country. From government advice to stay away from pubs and restaurants, to bigger companies having to send staff home, the pandemic is proving to be a tough time to be in business. But that hasn’t stopped one new company from ploughing on with launching its new venture. On Saturday, March 14, a brand new “zero-waste” shop opened its doors for the first time and the owner is determined not to…
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The intimidating fly-tipping gangs destroying the precious Gwent Levels
Walking along the sea wall on the Wentlooge Marsh, on the green, fertile strip of land nestled between the bustle of Cardiff and Newport, everything is idyllic. Or so it seems. Warning: this article contains an image of a dead animal which some readers might find distressing. In a nearby local café, a handful of residents have come together for the first time to discuss the ongoing issue blighting the levels and their communities - fly-tipping. The Gwent Levels are…
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ADVERTORIAL: Countryfile star gets behind revolutionary new Viridor recycling vision
UK recycling company Viridor has begun an exciting collaboration to give all plastic waste a recycling solution at an event supported by BBC Countryfile's Tom Heap and Prof Richard Thompson, Head of the International Marine Litter Research Unit at the University of Plymouth. The ground-breaking collaboration has been designed to allow the South West and South Wales to show regional leadership and take responsibility for all the plastic consumed in the area. Viridor is the...
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Give all plastic a recycling solution – Viridor shares regional vision
Viridor has announced a ground-breaking collaboration designed to allow the South West and South Wales to take responsibility for all the plastic consumed here and work together to give it a recycling solution. The largest UK-owned recycling and energy recovery company, Viridor has its headquarters in the South West with a head office in Taunton. It is part of the FTSE 250 Pennon Group, which is based in Exeter. Viridor has brought together 150 representatives of local...
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ADVERTORIAL: How to help vital conservation work in Wales by downloading this clever app
The Welsh landscape is changing, and in some cases not for the better. So, the Long Forest app has been launched by Keep Wales Tidy, in partnership with the Woodland Trust, to capture it before it is too late. One of their urgent environmental concerns is the spread of such diseases as ash dieback, or, to give it its official name, hymenoscyphus fraxineus. It is threatening to kill up to 98% of ash trees across the UK, a devastation that will cost billions, changing the...
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The tears, fears and gritty determination to rebuild lives after the devastation of Storm Dennis
It’s a pleasant, sunny day in Pontypridd, temperate for this time of year. The sunshine glints above the hills that surround the town and the vista is that of a picture postcard. The weather system has finally brought a much needed inner calm to the valleys, a week after Storm Dennis wrought devastation in the town, a month’s worth of rain falling in a 24-hour deluge causing rivers to swell and burst their banks across the region. Besides the Taff in Sion Street,
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Prince Charles comes face-to-face with flooding victims in Pontypridd
The Prince of Wales has heard of the devastation caused by flooding to businesses and homes in south Wales. Charles met with residents and business owners in the Valleys town of Pontypridd, where 80 shops have been flooded in the centre alone. It is estimated that 1,100 properties - both residential and commercial - have been affected in the Rhondda Cynon Taf area. The heir to the throne first spoke to Emma Jamal, 40, the owner of KooKoo Madame, a boutique shop that…
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Recycling company flooded homes and blocked watercourse after illegally dumping 10,000 tonnes of was...
A recycling company that illegally dumped 10,000 tonnes of waste blocked a watercourse and caused nearby homes to flood. The incident, which required a £380,000 clean-up operation, threatened to contaminate the River Ely and damage water supply to 32,000 properties, with machinery getting stuck in the mud as Wenvoe Recycling tried to fix the problem. Christopher Rees, for company director Anthony Gaughan, accepted: “He was clearly ill-suited to be running a…
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Up to 1,000 homes and businesses in Rhondda Cynon Taf hit by flooding after Storm Dennis
Up to 1,000 homes and businesses in Rhondda Cynon Taf are believed to have been hit by flooding in the wake of Storm Dennis. The council said 537 houses and at least 300 commercial properties have been flooded after the latest downpour with the total expected to rise to at least 1,000. The rainfall caused a small landslide behind the Rhondda Cynon Taf Council headquarters in Clydach Vale which forced council staff and a cabinet meeting to be moved to different buildings...
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How this row of bungalows has become unlikely test bed for cheaper electric bills - but it comes at ...
A row of bungalows in the Swansea Valley has become an unlikely test bed for transforming cold and draughty housing stock into something fit for the 21st Century. Tenants at the six council-owned bungalows in Craigcefnparc used to heat their homes with oil, LPG and electric heaters. From now on they will adjust a master thermostat and keep an eye on their Tesla battery for their energy needs. And then, presumably, wait for considerably cheaper bills to arrive. It follows...
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'We just need to eat less meat' say Extinction Rebellion campaigners in demands made to council on c...
From disaster planning to food production, electric vehicles to rewilding, campaign group Extinction Rebellion put Carmarthenshire Council leaders under the spotlight with a series of questions about their new net zero carbon plan. The group had draped a huge banner over the walls of Carmarthen's County Hall saying ACT NOW (in both English and Welsh), and further banners were on show on the steps leading up to the building. Inside the chamber, executive board member for...
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ADVERTORIAL: A Swansea attraction is giving children the chance to plant a tree during half term - a...
All roads lead to Swansea’s Plantasia during half term when children can bag a very special present and help the environment into the bargain. The tropical hot house in the heart of the city is celebrating its 30th birthday on February 17. But instead of receiving gifts as you normally do on your birthday, it will be a case of role reversal with anyone under 16 visiting that day getting an oak sapling to take away and plant. It is free as part of the general admission...
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This is how Cardiff council is spending £21 million to make your air cleaner
Cardiff council has revealed the steps it is taken to tackle the cities appalling air quality. A recent Birmingham University study found that the Welsh capital's air quality was worse than London. London still has far higher total pollution but because people use buses and trains there is a smaller proportion of it lingering in the air. High levels of pollution can cause a huge range of negative health implications including increase risks of cancer and lung disease as...
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Carmarthenshire council declared a climate emergency last year - this is what it plans to do about i...
Leaders in Carmarthenshire want to install wind turbines and solar farms on council-owned land as part of a new plan to become net carbon zero by 2030. Executive board members have approved a plan to become carbon neutral in four areas initially - non-domestic buildings, like leisure centres and schools; fleet mileage, such as refuse lorries; business mileage - car journeys taken by employees; and street lighting. Targets will be developed as part of an annual review of...
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PSNI launches Newry Canal investigation after monument allegedly damaged
A PSNI investigation has been launched into alleged damage at Newry Canal.The 300 year old canal structure, listed as a scheduled monument, opened in 1742 and is one of the oldest man made canals in Europe. Under the Historic Monuments and Archaeological Objects (NI) Order 1995, it is unlawful to disturb, damage or destroy a scheduled monument. READ MORE: Newry Canal lock damage report being investigated by authorities. The Historic Environment Division (HED) of the...
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Belfast "disappointed" as Lisburn Castlereagh fails to commit to help crisis-hit Lagan Valley Park
Belfast councillors have said they are "disappointed" over a failure by neighbouring Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council to agree to match-fund the crisis-hit Lagan Valley Regional Park. At a recent committee meeting at Belfast City Hall, elected representatives for the city noted a response letter from Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council in which they failed to agree to a request from Belfast to match their obligation of a £21,000 funding package this year for the...
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Bible verses in plastic bottles dumped in Coleraine on 'industrial scale', marine clean-up group say...
Bible verses inside plastic bottles are being dumped into the River Bann in Coleraine on an "industrial scale", an environmental group has said.The Sea2It organisation launched an appeal on social media to try and identify those responsible. The organisation, a not-for-profit community interest company dedicated to protecting the marine environment, said it has been removing the bottles from the Bann "for years". Read more: M&S Coleraine announces golden ticket giveaway...
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South Belfast primary school children plant over 550 trees to help local environment
Knockbreda Primary School has been taking part in the Belfast City Council One Million Trees projectSouth Belfast school children have planted over 550 trees in an effort to boost local wildlife and the environment.Knockbreda Primary School pupils have been taking part in the Belfast City Council One Million Trees project and have planted hundreds of trees around their school grounds on Tuesday morning.Every year group in the school has been involved in planting the trees, with them being...
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Newry, Mourne & Down to seek Shared Island Funds to 'swifly invest' in flood defences
A flood hit council is to seek Shared Island funding to "swiftly invest" in its water way defences in the absence of a functioning Stormont Executive. Newry, Mourne and Down District Council's (NMDDC) environment committee approved two motions this week to prepare and defend against future flood risks. The chamber was also presented with an update on the fallout of the October/November (2023) floods in Newry and Downpatrick, with an independent consultant's report due to...
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Saintfield chemical free community garden gets extension approval
A Co Down chemical free community garden is to be extended following council approval this week. Newry, Mourne and Down District Council's (NMDDC) active and healthy community committee signed off on the extension request from the Saintfield Community Association. READ MORE: The Co Down community garden thriving in first year A council officer said: "Following committee approval in June 2021, Saintfield Community Association has created an allotment and community...
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Belfast city centre site to be transformed into community garden under 'grey to green' initiative
A site in Belfast city centre is set to be transformed into a community garden as part of an initiative to launch temporary green projects in the city. Around £115,000 is being invested in making the city greener as part of A Bolder Vision for Belfast thanks to Belfast City Council and the Department for Infrastructure Blue Green Infrastructure fund. The 'Grey to Green' initiative from Belfast City Council invited the city's businesses, social enterprises, charities, and...
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The Earth's Corr: Lough Neagh operational taskforce didn't meet until months after blue-green algae ...
Toxic algae has been a problem on Lough Neagh since June - yet the department tasked with protecting our environment didn’t hold their first operational taskforce meeting on the issue until August 18.If that doesn’t highlight the complacency of our supposed environmental guardians, I don’t know what does. I think it’s well past time the Audit Office looked into how the Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs is managing its obligations when it comes…
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Environmentalists hold ‘wake’ for Lough Neagh over toxic algae bloom
Environmentalists have held a wake to mark the “death” of the UK and Ireland’s largest freshwater lake as they accused polluters of causing a huge bloom of toxic blue-green algae.Activists dressed in black and carried a makeshift coffin to the shore of Lough Neagh on Sunday afternoon. A wreath with the name of the lough was placed atop the black coffin during an event on Ballyronan beach, Co Derry, organised to highlight the scale of the ecological damage. The…
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Campaign launched to encourage wider support for East Belfast's greenways
A new campaign has been launched in order to encourage support for the upkeep and investment in the future of the East Belfast greenways. The Go Greenway campaign is a chartiable project run by the Eastside Partnership that aims to keep the Connswater Community Greenway a special green space for everyone to enjoy and hopes to gain support from local businesses and individuals to support those managing it. It will allow people to make doantions in a variety of ways, such...
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Belfast Council criticises all-island rail plan for leaving out Port of Belfast
Belfast Council has described as “disappointing” a failure to include the Port of Belfast in a plan for extended rail networks across the island of Ireland.Elected representatives at a recent committee meeting approved a response from Belfast City Council to a consultation on the draft report of the All-Island Strategic Rail Review. The review was launched by the Stormont Department for Infrastructure and the Dublin Department of Transport in 2021. It is the first...
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North Down coast bad smell sparks call for action just weeks after sewage spills
An affluent area in North Down which suffered bad smells linked to sewage spills is continuing to experience unpleasant odours - this time possibly due to rotting seaweed.The source of recent malodours at Kinnegar and Seapark in Holywood may finally have been located, a local councillor has revealed, weeks after Northern Ireland Water was called in to resolve a sewage blockage near Cultra, an affluent residential neighbourhood nearby. The foul pong near Cultra which caused...
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Law firm exploring legal action over Lough Neagh 'crisis'
A law firm is exploring group and individual actions around the crisis unfolding on Lough Neagh.PA Duffy & Co, whose founder Paddy Duffy also helped form Lough Neagh Fishermen’s Cooperative in 1965, has an historic interest in the lake. Mr Duffy, a solicitor and politician, was involved in the campaign to secure sole ownership of the eel fishery from the government in 1971 and later spoke of his concerns about management of the lough. Read more: Lough Neagh fisher…
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MOT tests on diesel cars before High Court this week
The Department for Infrastructure’s 17-year failure to test emissions from diesel car exhausts is due before the High Court for a landmark hearing on Thursday.Lawyers, environmental justice groups and the NI children’s rights watchdog have come together to try and force the Department to carry out the full statutory tests. DfI told us in May last year: “The reintroduction of a full emissions test for cars and light goods vehicles under 3,500kgs, will require a…
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Ballymurphy social housing scheme to go ahead despite Stormont flood warning
A social housing scheme approved for Ballymurphy in West Belfast is to go ahead despite Stormont officials warning 34 of the homes might be vulnerable to flooding. At a meeting of the Belfast City Council Planning Committee in February, elected members approved a proposed social housing/mixed tenure residential development comprising 122 residential dwellings, at lands north of Mill Race and Belfield Heights and south of St Gerards Manor, Ballymurphy. The site has access...
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NI Water warning farmers not to poison water supplys during slurry season
Northern Ireland Water is warning farmers to be careful not to poison water supplys during the coming slurry spreading season.In a climate of high public interest in river and lake pollution, NI's public water body is giving urgent advice to farmers here for spreading during an unusualy muddy September. The authority states: "As we approach the slurry closed season on October 15, it will be a busy time for farmers trying to get the slurry tanks emptied before the winter...
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Irish travel lovers top hacks after trekking to Japan without boarding a plane
A travel lover who has visited more than 40 countries uses “clever hacks” to reduce her carbon footprint, from packing less than 10kg to taking plastic food containers so she can have “leftovers for brekkie” and asking hotels ahead of her stay to remove any free toiletries.Caitlin Weich, 31, from Dublin, tries to avoid flights at all costs and has travelled more than 1,800 miles from Greece to the UK using only buses, trains and ferries – while her partner, Adam…
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The Earth's Corr: Big oil and their politicians doing a great job delivering the end of days
If oil and gas companies didn’t drill and frack - we wouldn’t be facing climate breakdown.If agriculture hadn’t razed nature to grow grass and soy to feed animals the world’s burger giants are only to keen to sell you in largely throwaway packaging - we wouldn’t be facing a biodiversity crisis. If foresters and developers hadn’t cut millions of hectares of old forests down to make way for pines and industry - the out of control wildfires burning across countries…
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The Earth's Corr: Big oil and their politicians doing a great job delivering the end of days
If oil and gas companies didn’t drill and frack - we wouldn’t be facing climate breakdown.If agriculture hadn’t razed nature to grow grass and soy to feed animals the world’s burger giants are only to keen to sell you in largely throwaway packaging - we wouldn’t be facing a biodiversity crisis. If foresters and developers hadn’t cut millions of hectares of old forests down to make way for pines and industry - the out of control wildfires burning across countries…
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Campaigners 'disappointed' as judge dismisses case against Larne Lough gas caverns
Campaigners say they're ‘very disappointed’ by the outcome of their judicial review against a marine licence for seven gas caverns under Larne Lough.Former Environment Minister, Edwin Poots, gave Islandmagee Energy the greenlight to salt mine the 1,350m deep caverns and discharge up to 24,000 cubic metres of the resulting brine into the sea every day in November, 2021. Civil servants recommended he approve the application but he was also given the option to refer it to…
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Campaigners 'disappointed' as judge dismisses case against Larne Lough gas caverns
Campaigners say they're ‘very disappointed’ by the outcome of their judicial review against a marine licence for seven gas caverns under Larne Lough.Former Environment Minister, Edwin Poots, gave Islandmagee Energy the greenlight to salt mine the 1,350m deep caverns and discharge up to 24,000 cubic metres of the resulting brine into the sea every day in November, 2021. Civil servants recommended he approve the application but he was also given the option to refer it to…
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Lagan Valley Regional Park facing "collapse" thanks to Stormont funding cut
The manager of Lagan Valley Regional Park has said a Stormont cut to funding this year risks “the collapse” of Northern Ireland’s most visited outdoor attraction. Dr Andy Bridge was reacting to a withdrawal of the total Department of Infrastructure funding grant for this financial year, amounting to £42,000. He said: “The Lagan Valley Regional Park has worked constructively with funding from the Department for Infrastructure for more than 20 years, sharing goals…
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Lagan Valley Regional Park facing "collapse" thanks to Stormont funding cut
The manager of Lagan Valley Regional Park has said a Stormont cut to funding this year risks “the collapse” of Northern Ireland’s most visited outdoor attraction. Dr Andy Bridge was reacting to a withdrawal of the total Department of Infrastructure funding grant for this financial year, amounting to £42,000. He said: “The Lagan Valley Regional Park has worked constructively with funding from the Department for Infrastructure for more than 20 years, sharing goals…
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Cultra bad smell identified as wastewater flooding into Belfast Lough
A foul odour near Cultra, which has caused a wave of complaints from residents, has been identified as waste water leaking into Belfast Lough.NI Water has been working to resolve a blockage near Cultra, an affluent residential neighbourhood near Holywood, in North Down, after complaints to local elected representatives. Alliance MLA for the area Andrew Muir said: “This leakage of waste water has not only caused a poor smell within the locality, it also poses a real public...
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Cultra bad smell identified as wastewater flooding into Belfast Lough
A foul odour near Cultra, which has caused a wave of complaints from residents, has been identified as waste water leaking into Belfast Lough.NI Water has been working to resolve a blockage near Cultra, an affluent residential neighbourhood near Holywood, in North Down, after complaints to local elected representatives. Alliance MLA for the area Andrew Muir said: “This leakage of waste water has not only caused a poor smell within the locality, it also poses a real public...
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Public warning after dead whale washes up on Co Down coast
The National Trust has temporarily restricted access to paths to Ballymacormick Point inCo Down after a dead whale washed up on the shoreline.The area is between Ballyholme beach and Groomsport near Bangor. The Trust says it has temporarily restricted access to the area as the whale carcass "poses a health and safety risk". Read more: Co Down coastguard save two dolphins stranded on beach In a post on its Strangford Lough & Ards Peninsula Facebook page, the National…
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Public warning after dead whale washes up on Co Down coast
The National Trust has temporarily restricted access to paths to Ballymacormick Point inCo Down after a dead whale washed up on the shoreline.The area is between Ballyholme beach and Groomsport near Bangor. The Trust says it has temporarily restricted access to the area as the whale carcass "poses a health and safety risk". Read more: Co Down coastguard save two dolphins stranded on beach In a post on its Strangford Lough & Ards Peninsula Facebook page, the National…
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Endangered lapwing makes return to Northern Ireland bog thanks to conservation efforts
An endangered bird has returned to a Co Down bog thanks to conservation efforts.For the first time in several years, two breeding pairs of lapwings have been spotted at Lecale Fens special area of conservation, just outside Downpatrick. The breakthrough comes after efforts by Ulster Wildlife working with local farmer John Crea. Like many other ground-nesting birds, the lapwing has suffered major declines over the last 40 years due to the loss of wetland habitat and changes...
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Belfast Council demands meeting with Stormont over "joke" cycling infrastructure
A Belfast councillor has described Stormont cycling infrastructure policy as “a bit of a joke”. At a recent Belfast City Council committee meeting at City Hall, councillors from the Alliance Party and the Green Party criticised the Stormont Department for Infrastructure during an item about Stormont responses to council correspondence. Alliance Councillor Mickey Murray said at the City Growth and Regeneration Committee: “There is quite a lot going to DfI but not a…
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Belfast and Cork join forces on solar heating project with Shared Island funding
Belfast and Cork are joining forces on a rooftop solar heating project with money from the Irish government’s Shared Island Fund.At a recent committee meeting at City Hall, councillors received an update on a new partnership between Belfast City Council and Cork City Council exploring the potential for solar PV on council buildings. Solar photovoltaic (PV) technology is a renewable energy technology that converts sunlight into electricity using thin sheets of...
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Stormont £300k funding approved for new Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO geopark
A Stormont grant of almost £300k is set to develop "key environmental activities" in a newly designated UNESCO global geopark. The Mourne Gullion Strangford geopark, only the second in Northern Ireland to attain the global title, encompasses three areas of outstanding natural beauty (AONB), Mourne, Ring of Gullion, and Strangford Lough and Lecale. Newry, Mourne and Down District Council (NMDDC) has this week accepted an offer from DAERA for funding of £291, 520, which...
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'DfI really need to step up and build infrastructure for cyclists' - All Party Cycling Group
Cyclists have urged infrastructure and transport chiefs to “step up” and build the active travel infrastructure people want.The comments follow an All-Party Cycling Group meeting with the Department for Infrastructure on Wednesday. Andrew McClean from Cycling UK said businesses are firmly behind the calls for less car parking and more emphasis on active travel. Read more: Belfast Cycle Network Plan 'already at risk of collapse', says councillor He told us young people...
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Stormont urged to encourage 20% reduction in meat and dairy consumption by Westminster committee
Stormont has been urged to encourage a 20% reduction in meat and diary consumption in Northern Ireland by Westminster’s Climate Change Committee.It was among a list of recommendations included in the CCC’s 2022 report to Parliament on our progress in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The independent statutory body was established in 2008 to advise the UK and its devolved governments how to meet legally binding climate targets. Read more:Planners should be looking…
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Belfast tidal flood alleviation meeting gets heated
Discussions got heated at a public meeting about the Tidal Flood Alleviation scheme in South Belfast.The Department for Infrastructure project, subcontracted to civil engineering firm Charles Brand, sparked outrage after 14 mature trees were chopped down along the Lagan without any public consultation. On Thursday night, some of the team behind that decision faced the whole community for the first time since the flood scheme was announced. Read more:Belfast folks 'despair'...
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The Earth’s Corr: People in more deprived Belfast neighbourhoods deserve tree-lined streets too
I absolutely love this time of year.As you walk past nature-friendly hedges and trees, birdsong rings through the air and it always brings a smile to my face. Then there’s the fact that just about every plant we allow to grow is at its best after the lift in temperature, a lot more sun and some sprinklings of rain. Read more:The Earth's Corr: Police probe on council 'wildlife crime' raises more questions Tree lined avenues throughout the city are showing off their Sunday...
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Belfast councillor says six workers "not enough" to clean dirty city centre
Sinn Féin have criticised Belfast City Council for the amount of people employed to clean the city centre. Sinn Féin Councillor Ciaran Beattie said during the full council meeting at City Hall this week that six cleansing employees for the city centre area was “not enough”. Councillor Beattie tabled the council motion to create the new Belfast Cleansing Task Force in May, which received cross party support. Belfast has seen months of bad headlines concerning…
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Minister for environment 'unavailable' to answer questions on environmental impact of bonfires
Northern Ireland’s Environment Minister is ‘unavailable’ to answer any questions about the environmental impact of bonfire night. Belfast Live requested an interview with Edwin Poots to ask about everything from the air pollution impact of the Eleventh night to his main environmental concerns about the celebration. The opportunity to put direct questions to Mr Poots was declined by his department press office - even after we offered to extend the deadline so he could...
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Diggers tear up wildflowers at church that won £100,000 Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Pollinator Garden A...
Diggers are tearing up part of a wildflower meadow at a church after Environment Minister Edwin Poots awarded it £100,000 to create a pollinator garden to honour the Queen. Magheralin Parish Church in Co Down was chosen from seven applicants for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Pollinator Garden Award. Destruction of around a quarter of the existing naturally rewilded area has drawn criticism. Read more:Belfast tidal flood alleviation meeting gets heated Minister Poots...
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Artist who added Belfast to iconic tour about togetherness moved by peace walls
A world renowned street artist says he was moved by a visit to Belfast’s ‘peace walls’ after sowing a message of togetherness on Stormont lawns.
Swiss-based Frenchman Saype’s ‘Beyond Walls’ project aims to promote global connectivity and sustainability through al fresco art.
Belfast is the fourteenth stop on a tour that has allowed him to make his mark on cities including Paris, Capetown and Venice - if only for a short time.
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Six NI councils to fight Stormont decision to refuse arc21 waste incinerator through courts
Six councils and a private waste firm are taking legal action against a Stormont department over planning refusal for a waste incinerator, we can reveal.
Arc21 was set up in 2003 to act on behalf of Belfast, Antrim and Newtownabbey, Ards and North Down, Lisburn & Castlereagh, Mid and East Antrim and Newry, Mourne and Down councils.
The umbrella waste group has spent £553,927 of taxpayers’ money on the planning application and public relations up to January this year...
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Belfast cycling plan for a host of covered stands, secure parking and repair kits
Belfast City Council has outlined a plan to deliver a host of new covered cycle stands, cycle repair kits and secured cycle parking provision throughout the city.
The service is part of the council’s "Active Travel Enablers" projects supported by Green and Blue Infrastructure Fund coming from Stormont’s Department for Infrastructure.
At the council’s recent City Growth and Regeneration Committee elected representatives approved ten new covered cycle stands,
Mediterranean sea-slug found off Ulster coast as climate concerns highlighted on World Oceans Day
A sea-slug that’s native to much warmer waters has been found off the Ulster coast in a possible first of its kind sighting.Natural sciences and biology student, Libby Keatley, made the ‘unusual’ discovery while diving at the weekend. The Diaphorodoris alba - which is yellow rimmed nudibranch - was pictured off the coast of Rathlin O’Birne island, Donegal on Sunday. Read more: Watch: Behind the scenes with Rathlin Islanders helping endangered puffins And its…
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Belfast Council warned of "crisis of confidence" in cleansing services as city labelled "dirty"
Belfast councillors have been told people think the city is “dirty and unclean”. Elected representatives at City Hall this week warned of a residential “crisis in confidence” in the state of the council’s cleansing efforts amid a growing storm concerning littering, fly tipping, missed collections and graffiti. All parties came together at Tuesday’s People and Communities Committee to back a 'Cleansing Task Force', consisting of members from each party, senior…
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Belfast firm launches “world first” workboat that “flies” above water
Maritime engineers have launched a “world first” commercially viable workboat that “flies” above the water using electric-powered hydrofoils.The eco-friendly vessels deploy the same foiling technology used by America’s Cup racing yachts, with hydrofoil wings attached to the hull with vertical struts. Much like a plane taking off on a runway, the underwater wings drive the workboat up and out of the water as it picks up speed. Read more: Details of four-day festival…
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Diesel cars still not tested for toxic emissions by Northern Ireland DVA
The level of toxic emissions pumping from the exhausts of diesel cars is still not being fully tested in Northern Ireland regardless of the law. It was revealed in 2018 that tests on the potentially harmful fumes had not been carried out since 2006 in a Spotlight special. Despite the outrage that followed, we can reveal diesel cars still aren’t being fully tested for emissions that could add to the air pollution that kills around 500 people in Northern Ireland every...
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The Earth's Corr: I'm not the only one with train rage
Let me tell you a story about a wee girl who just wanted to take the train.Trains you see are the most environmentally friendly way to get people from A to B. They hold lots and lots of folks (even dogs) and can be electrified so they don’t use the fossil fuels slowly poisoning us and the planet. And have you seen the modern price of filling your tank?! Read more: World Oceans Day: How the scenes beneath NI waters are changing That’s why we need trains that go fast…
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Climate Bill NI: Agrifoods claim NI will lose 9 out of 10 cows and sheep if net-zero plan passed
Agrifood groups are claiming NI farms will lose nine out of 10 sheep and cattle if a net-zero Climate Bill is passed in NI.The statistic came from an industry commissioned report by KPMG on the impacts of climate legislation on NI’s farm economy. But the figures used to arrive at the estimate did not include farming subsidies, which make up around 87% of what farmers earn. Read more: Glider in Carryduff 'will cut down on a lot of traffic' say residents Advertisements...
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The Earth's Corr: Putin's dirty war should end our fossil fuel reliance
As the disgusting invasion of Ukraine continues sending fossil fuel prices rocketing further, I have high hopes this unwanted war is driving home the sheer urgency of ending our reliance on oil and gas. I have never seen the western world so united since Russia started on its neighbour. What’s happening in Ukraine at the hands of Vladimir Putin has many layers but here I want to focus on what we can glean from the role of oil and gas in this whole mess. I spoke last week...
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Climate Bill: MLAs vote to split greenhouse gas reduction targets in Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland politicians voted in favour of splitting targets for greenhouse gas reductions in the latest debate on Edwin Poots’ Climate Bill. The legislation, which has now passed its further consideration stage at the Assembly, will see methane targets reduced to 46% on baseline levels. Methane is a more potent greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide as it retains more heat. Because of the distinction, other greenhouse gases will now have to be reduced at a faster rate...
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Co Down farmer reveals how working with nature literally made his grass greener while halving costs ...
The grass is greener when you work with nature says a Co Down farmer who halved his costs and grew profits with sustainable methods. Patrick Flynn turned his back on ‘modern farming’ techniques that push monoculture around five years ago. In that time the effect regenerative agriculture practices are having on his fields has become clear for all to see. Now he has joined forces with sustainable start-up, Farming Carbon, to document and continue researching how the…
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The Earth's Corr: Scare tactics around climate legislation won't help farmers beef up profits
Take a second and think about the veg on your plate, the steak you order on night out or the milk in your cuppa. How much does a good meal or a good brew mean to you? Does it leave a smile on your face as your belly fills?Aside from air, water and warmth, there really is nothing more important to our survival and physical health than the food we eat. We’ve all seen and heard the ads on TV showing fields filled with happy cows; how the meat you eat is traced from farm to...
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Northern Ireland Assembly passes net-zero carbon emissions climate change legislation
The Northern Ireland Assembly has passed climate change legislation committing the region to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. A Bill tabled by Agriculture and Environment Minister Edwin Poots passed its final stage in the Assembly chamber and will now go forward for Royal Assent.While there is an overall net-zero target for 2050, there is a separate reduction target of 46% for methane emissions, which are largely associated with the agricultural sector. Northern Ireland...
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Russia Ukraine: Ship carrying coal from Russian port to unload in Belfast Harbour
A cargo ship carrying coal from the Russian port of Murmansk is on its way to Belfast Harbour.Clipper Talent is registered in the Marshall Islands according to Belfast Harbour traffic information. The port's website suggests the almost 180m long bulk carrier was due at 2.15pm on Thursday afternoon but has not docked yet. Read more:DAERA facing legal action over gas caverns near Game of Thrones site Live ship tracking information shows it is currently making its way into...
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The Earth's Corr: Planning flaws leaving NI folks traumatised claims expert
Northern Ireland’s planning system was branded “professionally corrupt” at a Stormont committee this week by a planning expert.Dean Blackwood was among four people from across Northern Ireland speaking on behalf of environmental group The Gathering at the Public Accounts Committee on Thursday. The town planner told MLAs he could fill the chamber with people “traumatised” by a dysfunctional planning system that birthed many of the community groups fighting “bad…
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Arc 21: Co Antrim community claim waste incinerator approval risks their health unnecessarily
As the clock ticks on a decision about a disputed rubbish incinerator, a growing community in its shadow stands steadfast in the belief its approval will risk their health unnecessarily. Arc 21, which represents a group of NI councils, has been working on proposals for the £240m energy from waste plant at Hightown Quarry in Mallusk for almost 20 years. They have long argued for its need, saying Northern Ireland needs a solution to landfill and the rubbish we export...
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Energy crisis NI: Why your gas bills are going up so much
"Consumer natural gas bills are increasing because of exceptionally high global wholesale gas prices"
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NI renewable electricity firm fined over pollution that caused major fish kill
"This incident was classified as High Severity due to the distance impacted by the pollution and the significant number of fish mortalities"
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All Northern Ireland homes powered by renewables as Irish Rugby fans got ready to watch the Six Nati...
NI has broken the record for wind generation three times in 2022
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Climate Bill Northern Ireland a step closer to law after 25 hours of debate
Amendments to Edwin Poots' legislation include 80% renewable electric by 2030 and money for farmers
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City kids help Nichola Mallon launch new forest school, trail and natural flood scheme at Belfast Ca...
"I would really love to be able to roll this out in other places," said the Minister
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DUP supports moratorium on fracking, oil and gas exploration in Northern Ireland
"My paper recommended the Executive agree a preferred policy option of a moratorium on all forms of exploration and extraction of oil and gas" said Gordon Lyons
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Mark Ruffalo applauds 'unexpected' DUP move on fracking in Northern Ireland
"This is welcome news and a step in the right direction"
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NI consultation launched on wild swimming sites and length of bathing season
NI's bathing season runs from June 1 to September 15 each year with 26 spots tested
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Belfast docks fires cause huge spike in most harmful levels of air pollution
Levels of PM2.5 and PM10 measured further along the lough shore rose considerably
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Changes to Northern Ireland public transport expected in 2022
From the zero emissions buses to contactless payments, our transport systems are changing
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The Earth's Corr: Slurry is ruining our rivers, lakes and the air around mega farms
I don’t claim to know where it all went wrong and I don’t hold our farmers totally to blame
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Anti gold-mining group from Co Tyrone to stage protest in Dublin
The Greencastle People’s Office is organising the ‘Greencastle GPO to Dublin GPO’ protest on Saturday, August 21
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The Earth's Corr: Sacrificing badgers over bovine TB is barbaric and stupid
Culls in England and the Irish Republic where hundreds of thousands were slaughtered, proved to be ineffective
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See inside award-winning eco-friendly home in Co Antrim
It's one of very few homes in NI to meet Passivhaus energy-efficiency standards
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The Earth's Corr: We’ve got to get wild about threats to our environment
Our endemic and repeated failure to meet carbon emissions targets is one thing - but what about everything else?
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Guide to enjoying the Summer Solstice in Northern Ireland
It's the day of the year with the longest period of sunlight
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Dog mess fine scheme in Derry and Strabane 'is failing'
Over 16,290 patrols have been carried out - but only four four fixed penalty notices issued
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New campaign launched in face of 'littering epidemic' in NI parks
The not-for-profit organisation will be teaming up with a number of NI personalities asking them to champion the key messages
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Swan suffers 'huge belly wound' in dog attack
GRAPHIC IMAGE WARNING: It's the seventh swan attack since September
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Shame of the Co Down litterers dumping big brand rubbish
Nine bags were stuffed with other people's rubbish from a one mile stretch of road
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Much-loved 200-year-old tree burned in arson attack finally faces the axe
Generations of youngsters have climbed its branches at Cookstown's Drum Manor Forest Park
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£160k Belfast to Lisburn greenway extension to open next month
The project was originally due to open in January
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SPONSORED: Why nature is key to tackling climate change in Northern Ireland
Hughes Insurance and Woodland Trust NI have joined forces to plant thousands of trees by 2022
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Row erupts over which electric car to buy for the Belfast mayor
Sinn Fein has hit out a vote for one of the most expensive options
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Fears over emissions after NI 'left out' of UK climate change system
It is 'deeply troubling,' said one politician
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Good news stories you may have missed this week
There's been plenty of uplifting yarns over the past week
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Exec accused of catastrophic failings in protecting our 'life support system'
Government failed 83% of its commitments in already "inadequate" NI Biodiversity Strategy
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Bin collections could be cut across country due to funding crisis, report warns
Stormont leaders have been warned ahead of a potential crisis
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'Alarm' as environment minister dumps countryside greening protections
Audit Office called to investigate
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Belfast's zero waste shop celebrates first birthday after 'challenging year'
"It wasn't quite the year we expected but it's been amazing" says co-owner Alice Wilkinson
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Frustration as Holylands alleyways fly-tipped in days after clean-up
Local residents and politicians have expressed disappointment at the illegal dumping
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North Down councillor finds dolls, toothbrushes and beer cans on beach
Dozens of waste items were found by NI beach cleaners who scoured the shores for rubbish
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Appeal after dog cuts paw on broken bottles dumped on beach
Graphic image warning
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Single use face masks becoming a growing litter problem in NI
arc21, a waste management group representing six Northern Irish councils has called for increased use of reusable face masks
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Environment bosses 'complicit' in 'environmental travesty' on NI's lakes
More than half NI lakes rated either "poor" or "bad" with results worsening
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Moth species spotted in NI for the first time
A total of 793 species of months and butterflies have been recorded at the site
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Support our Don't Trash Our Future Campaign and stand up to litter louts
Today we are standing up to it, and urging you to do the same, with our new campaign Don’t Trash Our Future
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Kitchen sink, shopping trolleys and bike found dumped in river in Co Down
The items were found during a clean-up in the area
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Keep NI Beautiful found more than 500 pieces of litter per 100 metres of beach
Five bits of rubbish were found for every step
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Investigation launched after 'rubbish' found in Crumlin Road warehouse
NIEA were at the site on Crumlin Road
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Watch as Belfast man hikes up Mourne Mountains to show how much litter is dumped
Andrew Kenny, 33 made the video after discovering the extent of the issue over the lockdown period
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Belfast tree poisonings "most bizarre thing I've ever seen" says councillor
The incidents happened in the past week and the matter is being investigated by the PSNI
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NI goldmine application will be subject to public inquiry
Over 90% of representations on the planning application are against it
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Watch Environment Minister take to the water to help clean up on River Bann
More than 20,000 bottles, 800 balls and 120 bags of rubbish has been hauled from Northern Ireland's longest river
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Nearly 60 bags of rubbish collected from Northern Irish beauty spot
Murlough Beach in Newcastle has seen its shores be the victim of fly-tipping with massive amounts of litter discovered along the stretch of land.
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Eleven shopping trolleys, seven bikes and bags of rubbish pulled from NI river
The amount of rubbish polluting an NI river has been described as "truly appalling"
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Peregrine falcon chick rescued by Mount Everest climber Dawson Stelfox
The baby bird had become entangled in plastic twine in its nest
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Positive reaction as pop-up cycle lanes introduced along Dublin Road
The new lanes are designed to improve access into the city centre
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11,000 trees transform landfill site into community woodland
"The landfill site was originally a sandpit which successfully met the waste disposal needs of the Cookstown area for two decades"
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Watch: Tyrone teen with vet dreams grows thousands of tadpoles on TikTok
Hannah McSorley's mum said it has given her nature-inspired daughter a hobby in lockdown
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Swarm of bees that nested on hospital roof get a new home
They were moved by bee keeper Joanne Fearon on Monday
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Powerful tribute video sends message of hope to Northern Ireland
A video has been made in a special tribute to the people of Northern Ireland during lockdown. The Tourism NI video showcases the natural beauty of Northern Ireland - as well as the thousands of citizens keeping up their "Giant Spirit" during lockdown. The 1 minute 40 second film is narrated by Ian McElhinney, who has voiced previous Tourism NI campaigns and is a gesture designed to raise spirits and "send a small message of hope and resilience" to the community. Some of...
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Environment Minister reveals NEW personal waste guidelines for Covid-19
Environment Minister Edwin Poots has urged people to help protect key workers like those collecting and emptying our bins during the Covid-19 crisis. The Minister has issued new guidelines on what to do with personal waste including, used tissues and protective gloves if you are self-isolating with the virus. He said: "We must protect all our essential workers during this unprecedented public health emergency, not least the men and women who ensure our waste is collected...
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Weird items washed up on Northern Ireland beaches among UK 'top 20'
Russian bug spray, a council bin and the remains of a 1980s picnic are among the most unusual items found washed up on beaches cared for by the National Trust. The charity has unveiled the 20 oddest objects found on our shores to shine a spotlight on marine pollution. And they include a working Canadian research buoy and Texan sonar equipment that washed up in Northern Ireland, tiny plastic soldiers and thousands of neon pink detergent bottles washed up elsewhere. Phil...
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Belfast residents want city to have less cars and become more cycle-friendly
The majority of residents in Belfast want measures to reduce car traffic and make more space available for cycling in the city, according to the latest Bike Life report. There are two miles of protected cycle-lanes in Belfast and 77% of residents think more cycle tracks along roads physically separated from traffic and pedestrians would help them to cycle more. The Bike Life survey, the biggest assessment of cycling in urban areas in the UK and Ireland, is produced by...
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New report reveals cost of litter in Northern Ireland each year
A new report has revealed the cost of littering to the public purse in Northern Ireland. It's estimated that 1,294,164 items are littered on our streets at any one time, weighing approximately 28 tonnes. That costs the public purse £45million annually according to the new report from Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful. The Litter Composition Report was funded by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) According to the report, a…
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Belfast school opens time capsule from 1995
A Belfast school has taken a glimpse into the past by opening a time capsule buried by children 25 years ago. Pupils at Clarawood School in 2020 dug up the capsule created by kids from the East Belfast school in 1995. It was in celebration of European Nature Conservation Year and the project was called Vision 20-20. Former Deputy Secretary at the Department of the Environment, Richard H. Mackenzie CB, was in attendance for the planting of the time capsule back in 1995....
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Busting the myths around car travel in Belfast
How long do we spend in our cars getting into Belfast for work? According to Inrix and TomTom, commuters in Belfast lose between 158 to 190 hours a year to congestion. To put that in context the average person is losing nearly 5% of their time awake every year in congestion or the ability to watch all eight seasons of Game of Thrones, twice! There is also the issue of what petrol and diesel cars are doing to our health. A recent report, Cities Outlook 2020, showed Belfast...
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Valentine's Day climate strike rally to be held by Belfast teens
Student strikers will pledge their love for the Earth at a Valentine's Day rally in Belfast today. The Cornmarket strike marks one year since monthly student strikes began in the city - and for one of the organisers, her 24th straight week protesting alone. They will join their protesting peers in rallies held across the globe.
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Anna Kernahan won...
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ADVERTORIAL: 'Clearing the Air' author brings hope for the future of air pollution
It’s the unavoidable truth, air pollution is something that everyone experiences. Whether living in the country near fields and trees or up in the Mourne Mountains, it takes one plume of exhaust fumes from a tractor or a car to inhale enough particle matter (PM) to enter the blood stream to alter it. Tim Smedley, sustainability journalist and author of Clearing The Air states – “motor vehicles, in particular those powered by diesel engines, are now pumping…
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Belfast City Council's climate change action plan
In October 2019, Belfast City Council declared a climate emergency. A motion was put forward by West Belfast Councillor Matt Collins and was supported by all parties. At the time People Before Profit man said: "The debate about climate change should be long over and climate change deniers are fools. "We face an existential threat to our planet and to humanity, and we must act now to thwart the worst effects of catastrophic climate change. That means Belfast City Council...
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Climate change on agenda as Belfast City Council launches 'resilience' strategy
The three key action areas in Belfast City Council's'Resilience' strategy have been named as climate, children and young people, and connectivity. People from across the city joined Lord Mayor Daniel Baker at Portview Trade Centre in East Belfast for an event on Thursday. It was an opportunity for feedback on the council's draft resilience strategy which is out for public consultation. Lord Mayor of Belfast Daniel Baker said: "Our aim as a council is to show leadership...
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Co Antrim Infrastrata gas caverns "considerable threat" to marine animals and birds say wildlife gro...
Protected habitats and species off Islandmagee in Co Antrim“are under considerable threat” if a gas storage project gets the go ahead, say wildlife and environmental groups. InfraStrata, which now owns Harland & Wolff, wants to hollow out seven large caverns under Larne Lough for gas storage and pump the waste water and dissolved salt brine into the North Sea at Islandmagee. But the Northern Ireland Marine Task Force - a coalition of environmental NGOs,
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Upper Springfield residents boosted by new equipment to tackle eyesores
A community in West Belfast has been received a funding boost to tackle eyesores in their area. This funding for the Upper Springfield area was secured from Co-operation Ireland through a collaborative effort from the Turf Lodge Residents' Association, Springhill Residents' Association, Gort na Móna GAA club and Newhill Youth and Community Assoication. The funding has allowed the groups to buy equipment including power washers, leaf blowers and strimmers. Micheal...
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ADVERTORIAL: 10 easy things you can do to make your family eco-friendly
The NI Science Festival is championing sustainability in this year’s packed programme of events and workshops from February 13 – 23. Sustainable living can happen cost effectively by shopping local, knowing your labels and growing a wild garden. Here are the top 10 pieces of advice from NI Science Festival participants - scientists from the School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University Belfast, Dr Niamh O’Kane and Dr Paul Caplat - to help…
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