By Isle of Wight Observer
The Footprint Trust, set up in 2002 to reduce the ecological footprint of the Isle of Wight and to promote sustainable living, has helped thousands of local vulnerable people, it was revealed at their recent AGM.
The Trust was born out of a desire to take action to respond to the ‘Ecological Footprint Analysis of the Isle of Wight’, published in 1999, amd hold the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, which is the equivalent of an MBE for charities, for their pioneering work in the community.
Last year was very successful for the Island’s Footprint Trust, their Board of Trustees heard at the AGM. Nearly 2,000 vulnerable people were seen at outreach, training, events and home visits with over £100,000 of annual energy savings identified. Almost 300 home visits were provided for over 500 vulnerable people, identifying on average £300 per household in annual energy cost savings and cutting over 500 tonnes of CO2 emissions.
The staff were praised for making a real impact in reducing fuel poverty on the Island and helping to cut carbon emissions, essential for tackling climate change, as well as being involved in a number of nature conservation projects. They were also commended for their achievements in managing to raise basic funding, despite the declining availability of suitable grants.
The Footprint Trust has operated successfully over many years, assisting thousands of local people and reducing carbon emissions. This year the trustees have developed a strategy aimed at reducing the ecological footprint of the Island by 50% over 10 years. Whilst a challenging target, it is achievable with the support of the public. Those concerned about their energy bills can contact The Trust on 822282.
