Description

The Low Carbon Communities Network was formed to link, network and support the rapidly growing movement of climate change groups that are forming at a local and community level.

Following the 2009 LCCN Conference, a Company called Low Carbon Communities Ltd was formed as a not for profit (limited by guarantee). Two members of the Management Committee are now the Directors of this company and will be in touch with all members to keep them informed of progress.

Our Mission

To create a network of sustainable communities that offers mutual support, materials and infrastructure to make them more effective and efficient in collective action and lobbying for a low carbon future.

Our Aims

  * Work alongside and communities and organisations in the UK and across the world to halt global warming as far as is possible;
  * Encourage the adoption of low carbon and zero carbon policies, technologies and lifestyles through local action, and to enable groups engaged in this action to be as effective and efficient as possible;
  * Support greater community awareness of the urgency of action required on climate change, and offer clear pathways to identify high impact, positive and achievable local solutions; and to
  * Enable those active at a local level to positively influence UK national and local government policy and practice.

Our Approach

  * We are a membership organisation that exists to support community responses to climate change and to influence government policy in order to bring about effective solutions
  * We seek to achieve this by creating spaces in which diverse communities can develop effective relationships with decision makers and each other at regional, national and international level.

Our Values

  * We are member led
  * We believe in innovation and focus on solutions
  * We are committed to offering communities an inclusive model for local activism
  * We recognise the diversity that exists within and between communities and regard this as a strength
  * We believe in constructive, critical and challenging dialogue involving diverse views and opinions on policy matters
  * We are an advocate, prepared to speak out for communities
  * We are ethical in our employment and business practices, we believe in valuing our staff and volunteers and recognise the contribution our members make to our success.
  * We are open and flexible
  * Our committee members, staff and volunteers are encouraged to be passionate and creative about our work
  * We are committed to environmental justice
  * We believe that communities should determine their visions and make decisions on issues which will shape their future
  * We believe in encouraging and supporting people to initiate grass roots action in their own communities
  * We work co-operatively with other groups who share our aims

Founding groups and individuals include Tracey Todhunter (Cheshire and Warrington Low Carbon Communities),  Chew Magna Go Zero, Bovey Climate Action, Bollington Carbon Revolution, Mark Lynas (author of “Six Degrees”), Going Carbon Neutral Stirling and George Marshall (Director of Projects for Climate Outreach and Information Network).