Relationship between food and climate change is on the table at West Lothian summit

The relationship between food and climate change is on the table at the first major event hosted by West Lothian’s new climate Hub this month.

Gather and Grow will bring together local food producers and growers, social enterprises, biodiversity experts and other specialists to share ideas about tackling the climate emergency from the ground up.

The day-long event on June 24 is hosted by West Lothian Climate Action Network Hub and is aimed at community action groups and organisations working to tackle the emergency.

The Hub’s network members, comprising grassroots groups, will discuss how organisations such as community gardens are stepping up efforts to reduce food miles for local residents, in tandem with projects to improve wellbeing, fight poverty, increase skills and aid empowerment.

Members of West Lothian’s business community and political representatives not campaigning in the General Election will also participate in the event, with West Lothian College providing the venue.

Key speakers will offer climate-related perspectives from work in community gardening, food networks, land use, training and enterprise.

Workshops will explore how food access and affordability, health and wellbeing interconnect with our climate and are being addressed in West Lothian.

It is the first themed event for West Lothian Climate Action Network Hub (WLCANH), which was recently funded for another year by the Scottish Government along with others across the country.

The Hub’s network has grown since its launch in January to 61 member groups and the team are developing a programme of events and climate literacy training which they have begun delivering to schools and other organisations.

Neil Barnes, senior development worker for the Hub, said: “We are very excited to launch our first major thematic climate and earth event.

“Going round the region, it’s clear that growing food is one of the key areas of climate action at grassroots level.

“Whether you’re just a passionate gardener and love growing your own food, or want to reduce your food miles, or share your knowledge.

“Please do sign up as we hope there’s something for everyone, particularly those who can represent their local group or a relevant organisation and take back what they’ve learned or connections they’ve made.”

Details and booking can be found on Eventbrite, search for West Lothian Gather and Grow.

Alternatively, on Facebook, search for Climate Action West Lothian where the event flyer can be found. This carries a QR code to scan with a phone, which will direct to the event page.

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