Features / Environment
Buy woodland to help the environment
A business owner on Gloucester Road has developed a sustainable plan to help her customers offload their carbon footprint while they shop.
Sarah Thorpe, who owns gallery Room 212 and cafe bar Alchemy 198, has partnered with Avon Needs Trees – a charity buying land in the Bristol area for reforesting.
………………………………
is needed now More than ever
Bristol24/7 relies on your support to fund our independent journalism and social impact projects. Become a member and enjoy exclusive perks from just £5 per month.
………………………………
“I’ve always been concerned about climate change,” says Sarah. “I’m very active in extinction rebellion and help run the North Bristol Art Trail, so I think I’ve found a great way to combat my concerns.”
Sarah is hoping her customers and the community purchase some woodland when shopping on Gloucester Road
Working with Avon Needs Trees, Sarah has created a voucher system where customers can buy as many square metres of woodland they wish, with very £5 equalling two square metres of woodland. The vouchers will be business card-sized and printed on sustainably sourced paper.
“The vouchers will be perfect for customers to send as gifts in the artists cards we sell or a way for people to offset against the purchases they make,” says Sarah. “Planting a tree has such a meaningful impact, which is something not many people realise.”
Alchemy 198 are hosting a woodland themed New Years Eve party which is open for everyone who makes a donation
Sarah’s idea started when planning her New Years Eve party at Alchemy 198. Instead of having a ticketed event, Sarah has decided to ask customers to contribute to the scheme to offset their carbon footprint for the evening instead.
“It would be great for people to buy a few square meters with their cocktail or pint. It’s going to be a woodland themed party, with DJ’s and a range of local foods.” Says Sarah.
The vouchers will be available at a range of independent shops along Gloucester Road, as well along the North Bristol Art Trail which begins on November 23.
The vouchers are made on sustainably sourced paper using environmentally friendly ink
Sarah also hopes to raise awareness for the idea at the Gloucester Road Central Christmas Street Party on Thursday, December 5, where Avon Needs Trees will have their own stall to meet members of the community.
Sarah adds: “I’m so glad we’re able to do something about the climate crisis. It’s great to support a good cause with a community vibe.”
Avon Needs Trees vouchers are available at Room 212 and Alchemy 198. Find more information at www.room212.co.uk/news/avon-needs-trees-gift-cards
Read More: Bristol’s response to the climate emergency
Our top newsletters emailed directly to you
