Public inquiry

Wendy Edwards, community champion, Newbury

What does a community champion do?

I go out and visit local groups to encourage people to be more environmentally conscious. This means talking about saving energy, environmentally friendly travelling, ethical shopping, saving resources, and caring for the local area.

Why did you become a community champion?

I've always been keen on protecting the environment, but there are so many people who don't have a clue where to start.

How receptive are people?

Some are sceptical at first, but most come on board. I agree with the idea that every little helps, so I speak about simple stuff, such as organising car pools and where to buy energy-saving light bulbs.

How environmentally friendly is your community?

They could do a lot better. It's quite shocking how much people waste. Even institutions that are supposed to be role models, such as the church and schools, don't do nearly enough recycling.

What was the last green thing you did?

This morning I used environmentally friendly washing up liquid and took my and my neighbours' cardboard to the recycling. I try to eat fairtrade when I can, and to save water.

What about flying?

I'm afraid I haven't quite kicked that habit.

What's the simplest thing that community groups can do to help the environment?

Probably just getting better at recycling. It's not rocket science.

What makes you angry?

The amount of litter that people drop, and sitting in a traffic jam and seeing all those cars with just one person sitting in them. It's hard because our transport system is so bad out here, but it's still a really selfish mentality.

What book are you reading?

Change the World 9 to 5, by Steve Henry and Antidote. There's a lot about the environment in there.

Name a president for the UK.

Probably my church leaders because they have a pretty inspiring, positive outlook on life. They pray for you as well, which is obviously a good thing.
