At the last meeting of the group, on October 23, members were most impressed by a talk given by Jo Horsley giving a comprehensive survey of the work carried out by Environmental Wales.
As a development officer for Environmental Wales, Jo was able to give a list of projects which had been supported and financed by her organisation. All made a significant contribution to sustainability and environmental enhancement. Though needing financial support at their inception, a significant number of these activities moved on to become financially self-supporting. A clear indication that projects could be both environmentally beneficial and financially successful.
The group was also delighted to hear that Environment Wales had agreed to provide 'start-up' funding for PSEEG, making the group financially viable for the remainder of this financial year. In addition to the usual requirements, such as insurance and office materials, this funding would also enable the group to invest in energy monitoring equipment. The aim would then be to issue this equipment on free loan to members of the community who wished to check how much electricity the various appliances in their home were using.
Further details were also given by Darren Gibbs, of West Wales Eco Centre, regarding their Low Carbon Communities Project. Members were going to check whether local participation in this scheme would be possible.
It was then brought to the attention of the meeting that PLANED were organising a Community Climate Change Event at the Bloomfield Centre, Narberth, on Saturday, November 22, from 10.30 am to 3 pm. This would include expert advice on renewable energy products, details of community environment groups, practical advice on reducing energy use, a recycled art workshop for all ages and a recycled Christmas decoration competition. Locally made cakes and pies would also be available.
The meeting decided that PSEEG should also provide a display at this event. An outline of the display would be provided by the secretary at the next meeting. This will be on Thursday, November 20, at the Regency Hall, Saundersfoot, at 7 pm. All members of the public are cordially invited to attend.