getting started

where to begin??

Finding your way to Fair Shares, Fair Choice (FSFC) shows you, or your community group as a whole, are already up for taking positive action on climate change - a great start!

The low carbon challenge is a fairly new thing for many of us and there's no 'blueprint' for how your group should begin its low carbon journey You are likely to be the best judge of exactly how to engage other members of your group (along with the wider community)!

Over time we'll gather and share lots of fantastic examples of cool communities taking action. In the meantime Colin & Curtis's 1-2-3 below should help you to gear up for action...

Colin & Curtis's 'getting started' 1-2-3!

1. Improve your awareness and understanding of the issue (your own first if you're taking a lead) and then think of creative ways to explore this within the group. For example, you may plan a video/dvd showing (Al Gore's The Inconvenient Truth or the Panarama 'Go Green or Else' programme), a presentation from an outside speaker, a discussion evening (check back soon for 'Discussion Topics' download) or a group web-browsing session (FSFC website, Energy Saving Trust website etc.).

2. Work out your individual and collective carbon footprints. If your group members have access to the web they can each use the FSFC carbon calculator. If not, we have prepared a special paper version (see below). Once you've worked out your individual footprints use the worksheet (for community groups or schools - see below) to work out your collective footprint. On the sheet you can commit to offering each other mutual support to reduce both individual and collective carbon footprints.

3. Move quickly from focussing on climate change as a big and scary issue to positive, achievable actions that your group (or school) can take - see taking action!

FSFC - and Colin & Curtis - are rooting for you all the way!