On 28 September 2008, COIN in partnership with Greater Reading Environmental Network hosted a “matchmaker event” aimed at facilitating the formation of Climate Action Groups across Reading. A Climate Action Group is a group formed by local people which takes action on a particular theme of their choice related to climate change over a six-month period.

Of the 40 people who attended the 28 September event, 27 have joined one of the five action groups created on the day.

The Climate Action Groups formed are:

• Home-Owners Energy Group: Aimed at encouraging people to reduce energy in their homes through setting up a discount bulk buying system for renewables and insulation.
• Monthly Car Free Day: Aimed at making the annual car free day a monthly event.
• International Solidarity: Aimed at forging environmental links with existing twin towns in Nicaragua.
• Reading Lobby Action: Aimed at setting up a public meeting on climate change and building links with the council.
• Skills Swap Shop: Aimed at establishing a low carbon artists/ community skills swap shop to help people exchange low carbon skills.

It's not too late to get involved. If you live or work in the Reading area and would like to get involved in any of the above action groups, contact Catrina Pickering, CAG Project Manager, catrina_at_coinet.org.uk, 01865 403 334.

Click here for more general information on Climate Action Groups.