Sustainable Backyards a way for people to share sustainability activities

Sustainable Backyards brings the community together for a range of activities. Photo/Supplied

People keen to share their passion for sustainability with the community are encouraged to register an activity and be part of a calendar of events.

Sustainable Backyards is a month long calendar of events in March hosted throughout the Bay of Plenty.

Envirohub Bay of Plenty project manager Lindsey Bowles says this will be the 13th year Sustainable Backyards has been held.

She says similar events take place all throughout the region, with the programme hosting a range of activities.

These include growing your own food, beach/estuary clean ups, consumer choices, cooking, solar home seminars, bush walks, exhibitions, farmers/night markets, children's events and movie screenings.

She says last year Rotorua had a walking festival, art shows, working bees, candle and face mask workshops, guest speakers, D.I.Y workshops and an Autumn Harvest Festival.

The whole purpose of Sustainable Backyards is to bring awareness to the initiatives which are already taking place in the Bay of Plenty, she says.

This is so that, "people understand their options for living more sustainable lives and have opportunities to be inspired, educated and empowered to make meaningful changes and take proactive steps to bring the community towards a brighter, healthier, green future, for the good of New Zealand and future generations".

Lindsey says it is a great idea to register and hold an event if you have an idea/initiative or cause you want to share, as there is a huge network and promotional reach with Sustainable Backyards.

"It benefits everyone. If you don't have something to share, but want to be a part of it, just try to come to the events that interest you, or as many as possible to support the people in your community and take advantage of what is being offered to you, your friends and your family.

"It is by the community for the community. Anything you think may fit in with our mission is welcome."

If you have an idea for an event you would like to see in March, or have something of your own to offer, email projects@envirohub.org.nz or go to envirohub.org.nz.