Eco pioneer from Redditch gets accolade (From Redditch Advertiser)

Eco pioneer from Redditch gets accolade

9:41am Tuesday 27th July 2010 in News

A LEADING eco pioneer from Redditch has made it into the West Midlands Top 50 Green Leaders league.

Kevin White has been recognised by Sustainability West Midlands for his efforts in launching and developing a number of environmental projects, including Redditch Freecycle, Redditch Green Fair and a society for Vegetarians and Vegans.

He joined other green leaders in receiving their certificates from international campaigner Jonathon Porritt at a special event.

Kevin said: "I was absolutely overwhelmed when I heard the news.

“It's not often that grassroots campaigners are awarded so I’m delighted that my efforts have been recognised and will be used as an example of what can be achieved."

Kevin’s commitment to the environment started in September 2005 when he set up the Redditch Vegetarian and Vegan Society to promote healthy, compassionate and eco-friendly living.

From here, he put his creative and organisational talents into online group Redditch FreeCycle.

Now renamed Freegle it now has 11,000 members who use it to rehome unwanted items and it is estimated that 10 tonnes of useful items are saved from landfill every month.

Dr Simon Slater, executive director of Sustainability West Midlands said: “This is a diverse group of individuals who have all helped to implement and run activities that have had a positive environmental impact with additional social or economic benefits.

“Redditch has been involved in some excellent examples of low carbon innovation, communities tackling key green issues successfully and major public services adjusting the way they work to be more eco-friendly.”