‘Local media can give a voice to grassroots environmental organisations’

I first arrived in Bristol in 2011, lured to the city by its glowing reputation for live music and environmentalism.

As a student on the Shift Bristol Practical Sustainability Course – a “one year adventure in sustainability” – I became immersed in organic gardening, local currency, green energy and natural building.

The course cranked open my imagination, demonstrating a nature-friendly way of life is possible at every turn.

I found that this reflected the ethos of the city at large. Bristol is alive with green activity and creative change-makers. It inspires climate action and an awareness of green issues. And the energy is infectious.

I enthusiastically joined the movement fighting for environmental justice.

But after jobs focused on the humanitarian impact of climate change, global food justice, and the UK’s soil fertility crisis, I was in need of an injection of positivity – and realised others may feel the same.

Ursula Billington is Bristol24/7’s new Climate & Sustainability Editor – photo: Ursula Billington

The activity I saw happening in the streets and communities around me contrasted so markedly with the widespread ‘doom and gloom’ climate narrative. Where global news prompted feelings of powerlessness, local action uplifted and inspired hope.

I wanted to share those positive stories, to shine a spotlight on the grassroots heroes making real change happen on the ground.

Eco-theatre, peri-urban farming, zero-waste restaurants, tiny forests… I was excited by it all, and thought others might be too – if only they knew about it. Sharing these stories could inspire people to get involved in the action happening on their doorsteps.

Climate devastation is real and it’s happening now. Biodiversity loss is accelerating, droughts are increasing and food security is faltering. Globally, extreme floods and storms have forced over 20m people from their homes every year since 2008.

Our Climate & Sustainability Editor role is funded by The Extra Mile – photo: Rob Browne

But it’s not too late. Local and citywide action can make a huge difference. And we have a unique opportunity to tackle the problem, here and now, in Bristol. The pandemic provoked a surge in demand for local food and access to nature. People enjoyed the clean air and quiet of carless roads.

Local organisers and authorities can build on this energy to take real strides towards a healthier environment.

Social justice is a big part of this story. While steps are being made to tackle environmental issues, Bristol’s inequality is on the rise. We need to make good local food available to all communities, increase access to green space, and make environmental action inclusive and representative.

This is where the role of Climate & Sustainability Editor comes in. Entertaining, accessible and locally engaged, Bristol24/7 is in the perfect position to draw attention to climate action and the steps being taken to tackle social injustice.

Local media can give a voice to grassroots environmental organisations and make sure communities are informed about the decisions taking place on their doorsteps.

Change can happen from the ground up. I hope readers will be encouraged to get stuck in where they can.

Ursula Billington is Bristol24/7’s new Climate & Sustainability Editor. This piece of independent journalism is supported by The Extra Mile, and Bristol24/7 public and business membership.

Main photo: Ursula Billington

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