We’ve all seen the changes: fewer insects and butterflies; more wildlife becoming endangered; sewage in our rivers; increasing litter; and rising energy costs.

Without looking beyond our hometown we can see the natural world is fading. 

Within our communities, mental health is worsening and few of us have access to healthy food.

Our roads are heaving with traffic and developers regularly threaten to build on our green spaces.

In Mid Cheshire we have two environmental groups determined to change things.

They have teamed up to bring you a new ‘Green Voices’ column, here at the start of each month, so we can all learn more about the climate and nature crisis, and discover how to make positive changes.

Sustainable Northwich (Transition Northwich) campaigns for a better, greener town: tackling local issues such as fighting the expansion of the Lostock Incinerator.

We invite residents to share opinions, hosted a Q&A on the proposed Peak Cluster Pipeline, and have regular talks with our MP.

Our members share skills and inspire one another to lead happier, more sustainable lifestyles.

You can volunteer at Rod’s Secret Garden and the Dane Valley Community Orchard or attend our friendly meetings.

Visit TransitionNorthwich.weebly.com and Sustainable Northwich on Facebook.

Just a year after launching, with support from Winsford Town Council, Winsford Sustainability Partners (WiSP) has provided energy saving advice to local residents, hosted stalls at local festivals, kick-started an air pollution project at local primary schools, and co-organised a climate debate before the general election.

We welcome new members. Visit our website for further information and to contact us or sign up for newsletters: winsfordsustainability.wordpress.com and Facebook.

You will find details of upcoming events, and a list of local partners including the Cheshire (reusable) Cup scheme and The Very Green Grocery.

We would love to see you at a meeting or event, and if you have ideas, please share!

Wherever you live in Mid Cheshire, we invite you to become a Green Voice!

Look out for our monthly column for practical tips to save energy (and money), family activities and fun ways to create a happier, greener community.