Last year like never before, we saw people from all walks of life coming together to affect positive change. As the famous anthropologist Margaret Mead said: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”
As we move into 2021, perhaps we can all learn to ‘Rethink’ where our environment and lifestyle are concerned. The dictionary definition of rethink is to consider or assess (something, especially a course of action) again, especially in order to change it. It’s by being conscious of our everyday actions that we can learn to change.
We hope that as we move into 2021 and start to make resolutions, you too will pause and rethink and be inspired to choose at least one of these actions for the New Year, knowing that we can make a change for the good of all.
Things You Can Do in 2021:
? Move to renewable energy – bigcleanswitch.org is a great resource to help you. I personally use Ecotricity as they produce all of their own renewable power rather than buying it in. If you’re considering buying an electric car this year, you need to first ensure that your electricity comes from a green source rather than from fossil fuels.
? Make your home more energy efficient – check out www.warmersussex.co.uk to get you on your way.
? Rethink your diet – reduce meat consumption and buy meat from local producers. We have so many amazing farm shops and suppliers locally and are working on a directory to be published in the next few months.
? Rethink food miles – buy local wherever you can rather than from large supermarkets. Thinks about whether the food you buy is in season.
? Change bank accounts to an ethical supplier – we recommend Tridos or Starling. Also consider where your pension funds are invested. Ethical funds have outperformed traditional funds in recent years so make that swap!
? Rewild your garden – leave part of your garden to nature and see what happens! We’ll be running a campaign on this in the spring.
? Make a hedgehog corridor in your garden
? Reach out to a neighbour on a regular basis – or why not set up a neighbours WhatsApp group so you can all keep in touch?
? Terracyle your crisps packets/toothpaste/cosmetics – news on collection points in Hurst coming soon!
? Walk or cycle instead of using the car for local journeys
? Support local businesses whenever possible
By working together under the heading Hurst Rethink a group of locals have already begun to drive sustainable change in the village adding to the great work many unsung heroes have been doing for some time! In the 3 months since deciding we needed a Rethink, we have secured an electric charging point in Trinity Road long stay car park, set up a Terracycle group for packaging that can’t be recycled by the usual route, are working with our local councils to try and leave more of our verges wild and are in talks with the authorities about a cycle lane from Hurstpierpoint to Hassocks.
Why not join our group? Contact us today to find out more. We’re currently meeting once a month on Zoom while we put our action plans together for 2021.