ECO-MINDED people living in the Chard area have started a community group with the aim of improving the town and reducing its impact on climate change.

Goals of increasing recycling levels, improving energy efficiency and supporting local traders while encouraging new independent traders into the high street are high upon the agenda.

Tim Eggins, of the newly-formed Sustainable Chard group which held its first meeting at the Phoenix Hotel last Wednesday (July 29), said: “Potentially, Chard could become a green beacon in the West Country. – "Solar fields are either under development or in the planning stage, power is being made on Snowdon Hill from the methane extracted from cow manure which is used to generate electricity, the conversion rates of materials used at the recycling centre are at 86 per cent.

“Even the schools are involved with the Redstart primary achieving its Bronze Eco award in June and most of the other schools either running Forest School classes or intending to take on the Eco school challenge themselves.

“Do not be surprised to see more people looking to help the planet while creating a brighter cleaner future and others in the streets and hedgerows picking up and recycling the litter.”

Tim said many of the shops already have full environmental credentials, selling locally sourced and produced items or ones that are organic, fair-trade or have a green ethos.

“Dovetails, Eleos, Complete Meats and Razooks are among the vanguard of outlets who are playing their part,” he said.

“We even have Tapstone, Chard’s own micro brewery, which enables the beer drinkers to reduce their carbon footprint by consuming a fine quality ale that has travelled less than a mile.

“With more businesses within Chard now thinking more ethically and offering an increasing range of goods with a greener background it will undoubtedly bring in more people from outside the area.”

The next meeting of Sustainable Chard will be held at the Phoenix Hotel in Fore Street on Wednesday, August 12, at 7pm with monthly meetings to follow.

“These will incorporate guest speakers who will share their knowledge and help drive Chard onwards,” said Tim.

“These are free meetings of around an hour in duration, refreshments available and donations gratefully received to help pay for them. Every one of all ages are welcome, just bring along your suggestions and enthusiasm.”