About Us
We’re a voluntary group of people from different backgrounds but we’re all passionate about creating a thriving world for everyone. That means a healthy natural environment and a fair economy where everyone’s needs are met, now and in the long run. Our motto: ‘Think global, Act local’
We have been running for over 30 years and have more than 80 members. We meet monthly to plan our campaigns and celebrate our successes! Join us on the 2nd Tuesday of the month.
Our elected officers are:
Libby Owen, Coordinator
Amanda Thesiger, Secretary and Press & Publicity Officer
Jonathan Richardson, Treasurer
Swale Friends of the Earth reflects national FoE campaigns and gets involved in many local issues that affect people and the natural environment across the borough
What we Do
We aim to increase environmental awareness locally and bring a different perspective and positive solutions to issues like climate change, transport, energy, plastic waste, food, planning, biodiversity and sustainable development.We are currently pushing for a fair and green recovery from the coronavirus crisis.
We campaign in a number of ways;
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Organising and taking part in events, exhibitions, film shows etc
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Running educational activities with young people and schools
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Political lobbying – eg writing letters, running petitions, holding hustings and meeting with our MPs and other elected representatives
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Making representations on local planning proposals (eg for housing) and contributing to policy consultations
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Encouraging and promoting green lifestyles and activities
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Practical action, such as tree-planting, wilding, litter picks and clean-ups.
We are independent but we work closely with other local and national organisations and projects that share our vision and values.
We Are All Volunteers -
Join Us!
A group of committed regulars make up "the team" (scroll down to see who we are), but we're always excited to hear from people like you. If you want to do more to help the environment, and the people and animals who live on it, you’ve come to the right place. Want to volunteer with us?
Some things to know:
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No minimum time requirement: We have a number of campaigns and projects on the go at any given time, each requiring different levels of commitment. From spending 2 hours helping us out at an event, to leading your own campaign, you can give as much or as little time as you’re able.
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No experience necessary:The more the merrier! Whether you’re well-versed in environmental issues, or are simply driven by the desire to do some good, makes no difference. If you care about our planet, we care about having your help.
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There are many ways you can help:
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Collect petition signatures
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Help us fundraise for, organise or promote an event
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Volunteer for website support or help with social media
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Start your own campaign!
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Support our events by coming along
How to get involved:
We have monthly meetings (currently via Zoom) where anyone and everyone is free to stop by. This is a great opportunity to see what we’re working on, identify areas or of interest, and opportunities for getting involved. There are subgroup meetings for those interested or involved in specific campaigns.
Our monthly meeting details are posted on the events calendar, but take place the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 7.30pm.
You could also drop us an email with your questions or show up to one of our events or follow our Facebook or Twitter accounts to find out more.
If you decide after a few meetings that you would like to join us in our aims for a greener world, you can sign up to our mailing list and get involved as much or as little as you like - we always welcome new members.
Connections
We are affiliated with national Friends of the Earth and work with a number of like-minded organisations in our local Swale area and beyond to support action to protect and enhance our environment and to support a green and fair recovery. For example:
