On 3rd September I attended the Community Council Environment Forum. It was hosted by Maggie from Inchinnan Community Council and Inchinnan Community Development Trust. This was our first proper get together and we had a really energising discussion about how Community Councils can work together across our region to address the climate and ecological crises. We have set out a number of themes and action areas, which include, how to prepare and adapt to the changing climate, improving local democracy within the planning system, improving our understanding of Renfrewshire Council ‘s waste management audit trail, and enhancing biodiversity, including through addressing herbicide use on Council land. So we have plenty to be getting on with!

It was also inspiring to hear from Maggie about how Inchinnan Development Trust are using the Community Empowerment Act to take land into local control so that it can be managed for the benefit of the environment and the community. I would be interested to find out if there was any appetite for this within our area.