Climate fair uses microgrant to grow community knowledge

Spreading the message about how everyday actions can impact on climate change was the aim of a vibrant community fair held in Roehampton.

Recycling household items, reusing textiles and even growing vegetables at home were some of the tips shared at the eco event, which was supported by Wandsworth’s Climate Action Microgrant scheme.

The microgrants programme is part of Wandsworth’s climate goal of becoming a net zero borough by 2043 – and it is expanding for the next three years.

More than 100 local residents gathered for the sustainability-focused fair organised by Roehampton Wellbeing for Women and Children.

Backed by the council’s grant scheme – which provides up to £500 for each locally-led climate action initiative – the green event brought sustainability to life.

“People really want to come together to find out more about issues that affect them, especially after Covid when there has been more isolation,” explained Asma Choudhry, chair of Roehampton Wellbeing for Women and Children.

“These types of events are about connecting people and helping to share information about how issues like climate change, rubbish and recycling and even air quality can impact on their lives.

“The aim is to help people to become healthier and happier and share messages around sustainability and how we can make a difference in our communities through small actions.”

Sharing knowledge

Educational games and demonstrations on mending clothes were among some of the 17 stalls at the fair.

Community members shared tips on recycling bottles into vases for flowers, as well as planting and growing herbs and salad vegetables in old egg boxes.

Judi Gasser, Cabinet Member for Environment, joined the event held at Alton Community Hall in Petersfield Rise.

“I’ve learned some new tips and I’m delighted to see our Climate Action Microgrant scheme being used to share so much useful knowledge among the community,” she said.

The council ran information stands on air quality and waste – while handing out recycling sacks to local residents.

Hosting activities around recycling, the life cycle of a plant and climate change, local mum Sadia Aziz said the event was a highlight for the community.

“We are all learning something related to the environment and sharing tips. It’s been good to share knowledge among the community in a fun and lively way,” she said.

Wandsworth Sustainability Network meeting

As a listening Council, all are invited to join our next Wandsworth Sustainability Network meeting on Tuesday 18 March to find out more about what’s happening in 2025 in Wandsworth and share your views.

Wandsworth Council’s new round of Climate Action Microgrants will mean individuals, community groups and schools can easily apply online any time through the year, with monthly panels to agree where the cash goes.

In its first year, the new microgrants scheme has already provided £15,000 in funding to local community projects, engaging more than 3,000 people in activities like the climate fair.

This year, we are expanding the scheme for a further three years with a total pot of £23,000 each year.

For the first time the grant scheme will include ringfenced funding for schools worth £5,000. To get the latest news and information about climate action and sustainability in Wandsworth, sign up to our dedicated newsletter.