The Green Tour of Wales 2024, by Adebayo Adetunji

The Great Big Green Week 2024 was an incredible journey, both in terms of the physical miles covered and the valuable lessons learned about sustainability and environmental stewardship. This year’s theme, “Let’s Swap Together for Good,” was a powerful reminder of the role we can all play in reducing waste and mitigating the effects of global climate change. The idea behind the theme is simple yet profound: by swapping knowledge, services, or goods, we can prevent wastage and keep items from ending up in landfills, thus contributing to a more sustainable future.

To align with the theme of sustainability, the team traveled using an electric vehicle, minimizing our carbon footprint and promoting the use of clean energy.

The tour started in Swansea, where the team embarked on a round trip that would eventually bring us back to the Swansea Environment Centre Pier.

Stop 1: North Wales African Society

The first stop on my journey with the was at the North Wales African Society. Here, I participated in a workshop that focused on actions towards combating global climate change. The discussions were engaging and insightful, with participants sharing their unique perspectives on how communities can work together to make a tangible impact. We explored practical steps for reducing waste, conserving energy, and promoting sustainable practices in our daily lives.

Take a look at Tammie’s video, below.

Stop 2: Ysgol Gynradd Hirael

Next, the tour moved to Ysgol Gynradd Hirael, where the team conducted an “Imagine Action Global Climate” workshop with Year 5 and 6 students. This session was particularly inspiring as it aimed to instill a sense of responsibility and hope in the younger generation. The students were eager to learn and participate, and it was heartening to see their enthusiasm for environmental sustainability. By engaging them in discussions about climate action, we aimed to empower them to be future leaders in the fight against climate change.

Stop 3: Caernarfon Lan

Our journey continued to Caernarfon Lan, where we lent our voices in support of environmental justice. The local community here is opposing the establishment of a peak gas plant and a concrete facility, which they believe will not only increase their energy bills but also lock them into reliance on fossil fuels for years to come. The community fears that these developments will be detrimental to their health and well-being. Standing with them in opposition was a poignant reminder of the importance of grassroots activism in driving environmental change.

Stop 4: Centre for Alternative Technology, Llwyngwern

At the Centre for Alternative Technology in Llwyngwern, the mission was to inspire, inform, and enable humanity to respond to the climate and biodiversity emergency. The center is a beacon of hope, demonstrating through various innovative projects how sustainable living can be achieved. The visit was both educational and motivating, reinforcing the importance of sustainable technology and practices in addressing the environmental challenges we face.

Stop 5: Ysgol Dolbadarn

The tour then took us to Ysgol Dolbadarn, where we conducted another workshop aimed at inspiring students to take action in preserving and protecting the environment. The workshop focused on remediation efforts and the importance of giving hope to our planet. We ended the session with some downtime, engaging the students in drawing and painting activities that allowed them to creatively express their thoughts on climate change.

Stop 6: Dyffryn Ogwen Community

One of the most impactful parts of the tour was our visit to the Dyffryn Ogwen community. This community is a shining example of what collective action can achieve. They have built their own renewable energy plant, generating power for local consumption and reducing their carbon footprint. The community has also developed an action plan to tackle climate change, which includes upskilling the local workforce, reducing costs for residents, and providing educational opportunities about the climate emergency. Their success is a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives in creating lasting change.

Stop 7: Graigfechan Growers’ Group

My journey on the tour was concluded with a visit to the Graigfechan Growers’ Group. This group of growers is doing remarkable work in supporting climate change efforts and promoting environmental sustainability. They grow their own food and vegetables in an eco-friendly manner and are committed to zero food waste. Any excess produce is donated to charity and local communities, ensuring that nothing goes to waste. Their work embodies the spirit of “Let’s Swap Together for Good,” demonstrating how small, localized efforts can have a significant impact on the global fight against climate change.

I was so sad to wave the team goodbye as they made their way onto Brecon and Langford’s Farm.

Conclusion

The Great Big Green Week 2024 tour was a profoundly enlightening experience. It showcased the power of collective action, the importance of education in driving change, and the vital role that each of us plays in the fight against climate change. From workshops and community engagements to innovative projects and grassroots activism, the tour highlighted the many ways in which we can all contribute to a more sustainable future. I am grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of Climate Cymru on this journey, and I look forward to continuing to advocate for environmental justice and sustainability in the years to come.

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