Greening Campaign sees 3,700 volunteer hours in Hampshire

In Hampshire, more than 3,700 volunteer hours have been spent over the past year through the Greening Campaign, a grassroots initiative focused on climate action.

Efforts have focused on energy efficiency, biodiversity, promoting sustainable food security and reducing waste.

Terena Plowright, founder of the Greening Campaign, said: "It is simply incredible to watch these communities take action, the mass of volunteers are inventive, dedicated, fun, ethical, inspirational, and so much more, and the best bit is that not only is there support within each community, but each community supports other communities taking part.

"It is a privilege to stand beside them as they make real, tangible change across Hampshire."

In the past year, 436 homes received thermal imaging to identify areas for energy-saving improvements.

Greening Fleet volunteers taking thermal images of homes. (Image: Greening Campaign) Volunteers also created 8,093 square metres of new wildlife habitat.

Food waste reduction efforts saved an estimated £60,646, and 2,157 items were reused or repaired through repair cafés, a toy library and clothes swapping schemes.

One event saw families and children come together to plant more than 1,000 trees.

A volunteer described it as "the best community event I’ve ever been involved in."

Oona Muirhead, executive chair of the Greening Campaign board, said: "The Hampshire Greening communities have been doing fantastic work to make real and lasting changes.

"The particular successes achieved during 2024/25 show the impact that communities can have when they come together to take focused action, with the right expert support.

"The Greening Campaign just goes from strength to strength."

Greening Eastleigh Town help care home residents plant flowers and vegetables. (Image: Greening Campaign) The campaign is supported by organisations including the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust (HIWWT) and Garden Organic.

Fiona Taylor, chief executive of Garden Organic, said: "Garden Organic is proud to be supporting communities across Hampshire to create more opportunities for local food growing, reducing household waste and sharing resources.

"It has been particularly inspiring to see how groups have adapted their activities to suit specific local needs and priorities, reaching neighbours, schools, and businesses with positive and practical actions on how to cultivate a healthier, more biodiverse and sustainable place to live."

Dawn O'Malley, senior engagement manager at HIWWT, said: "The Space for Nature teams are so enthusiastic and dedicated in finding opportunities to help local wildlife and creating habitats for nature in their communities."