60 students from Chigwell School united to create CBAC, which stands for Climate and Biodiversity Action Committee. The aim of this group was to “provide a voice for students to engage with the school in reducing its carbon footprint and increasing the biodiversity of its grounds” -Mr Lord, founder of CBAC. Last academic term, CBAC met weekly to discuss and formulate various strategies to reduce Chigwell School’s carbon footprint, making the school a greener site. 

 

Recently there have been many devastations due to climate change, such as wildfires. The number of wildfires has surged, with 4869 fires occurring in September- National Centres for Environmental Information. Wildfires along with other extreme weather conditions such as floods, storms and heatwaves are due to an increase in greenhouse gases, which are released into the atmosphere. The media has helped alert people of these various events and taught others how to reduce their carbon footprint. Young people having access to the media enables them to become informed and inspired to make a change. This is one of the reasons why many pupils have joined CBAC at Chigwell school. Schools, being large institutions, heavily contribute to our CO2 levels, with 9.4 million tonnes of CO2 emitted each year by schools in the UK- Polythene UK. Chigwell School wishes to become a part of an eco-friendly community, aiming towards being more sustainable.  

 

CBAC has already positively impacted Chigwell school by raising “awareness with assemblies, PSHE lessons, tutor periods, and Climate Action Weeks.” -Mr Lord, founder of CBAC. As an individual, there are numerous ways in which we can help lower CO2 levels, by making small changes in our day-to-day lives or implementing alternate methods. In an interview, Mr Lord said “The most important thing anyone can do is to join a local or national climate group…” if you are conscious of your carbon footprint, he also suggests a “change in diet, reduces animal products…” cutting down on the amount of meat consumed can have a significant decrease on one’s carbon footprint. By making small changes in our lives, we can help make a bigger difference. Chigwell School are working to make a difference within their local community.