“Change starts at a community level” The Salford mum hoping to raise £100,000 for new eco-friendly centre

A Salford mum has launched a fundraising campaign to create a sustainability centre in the city.

Steph Bateman, a wildlife student at the University of Salford and mother of two boys, has launched a crowdfunder for a Salford sustainable living centre.

Her mission is to raise £100,000 to create a place where sustainable living is accessible to everyone in the community.

Steph started this project when she became aware of how serious the environmental crisis is.

She said: “As I am now a mother of two boys, I want to gift my children with a world that is healing.

“It will consist of a community shop, a farm, education centre, as well as a green energy scheme… The centre will have sustainable swap items such as bamboo toothbrushes, and a refill station.

“The shop will source locally produced goods and food items, as well as including a repair and upcycling café.”

Steph also wants to provide work and volunteering opportunities for those in the local community who want to get involved.

She said: “It is also my hope that the various parts of the centre will create jobs and volunteering opportunities.

“I want to spread the message that sustainability should be accessible to everyone.”

What is a sustainability project?

A sustainable project involves using natural resources responsibly, so present and future generations can be supported.

In recent years, climate issues and unsustainable living have been bought to the nation’s attention, with many people believing we are living in an inevitable climate crisis.

Steph has prepared to launch a smaller target if £100,000 is not pledged by January 11.

Steph explained: ”If anyone wants to help out please feel free to get in touch.”

Details on the fundraiser can be found here.

What can you do to help?

Steph has created The Environment Coach, a website and social media account that offers advice for those who want to help the environment but don’t know where to start.

She has listed a few tips to help the community:

• Ensuring lights are off when you are not in a room
• Using a refillable drinks bottle
• Getting involved with local charity work

More tips can be found on Steph’s instagram.

 

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