Bootle festival this Thursday 14th July will put the spotlight on climate action

A major new event in Bootle on Thursday will put the spotlight on ‘green’ measures that can help to protect the local community and contribute towards saving the planet.

The Bootle Climate Action Festival will take place between 12 noon and 5pm on Thursday 14th July at Bootle Canalside, next to the Strand shopping centre, between Stanley Road and Washington Parade.

The event is being organised by Bootle-based social enterprise Regenerus and the Taking Root in Bootle community gardening network.

Funded by Linacre Ward elected members, the event is being sponsored by Liverpool John Moores University, The Printroom UK and Service Electrical Distributors Ltd, and is receiving extensive support from Southport Ecocentre.

Organisers say the festival will feature a series of talks and workshops, the opportunity to take part in an air quality interactive experience and the chance to get involved in a canal clean-up.

Free bike MOTs and repairs to encourage cycle use will also be on offer, as will a variety of free eco giveaways.

Meanwhile, exhibitions and displays from local organisations will focus on ‘green’ topics including how to recycle well, saving energy, healthy eating and cutting down food waste, growing your own food and shopping local, and walking and keeping fit.

Commenting on the festival Ruth Livesey from Regenerus, said: “This event will be a great opportunity for local people to find out what we can do in Bootle to help save our planet and protect our community for future generations.”

“From clean air to reducing your carbon footprint, from the circular economy to buying local, we’ll have exhibitors on hand who will be able to provide expert information and advice on these and other key ‘green’ themes.”

“We’re really excited about this event, and hoping for good weather and a very good turnout on the day,” added Ruth.

Sefton Council Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Skills, Cllr Marion Atkinson, commented: “Sefton Council have declared a climate emergency and a big part of our commitment is supporting grassroots activity like this.”

“Climate change is a problem for all of us and small changes can have big, positive consequences. I hope this festival will encourage local people to consider their own impact on their environment and how they can support and encourage others to make a change too.”

“I am delighted that Regenerus have chosen Bootle Canalside to host their climate festival. This is exactly the type of community event that we want this space to be used for and I know we will host many more community events as we move forward on our completed site later this year.”