PEOPLE passionate about the environment are invited to join a new group, People Planet Pint Wokingham.
Members meet over a drink at a pub in the town, to discuss sustainability, share experiences and ideas, and network.
Anyone with an interest in the environment can attend the free sessions, whether they are local residents, business owners, students, consultants, or those wanting to move into greener careers.
Group leader, Elizabeth Corse works for London-based solar tech company, Solivus.
She is passionate about climatech, sustainability, and creating opportunities for people to collaborate.
“If you live in the area, care about your children’s future, want to contribute to your community, or would just like to know what’s going on in Wokingham, come and join us,” she says.
“You don’t have to be an expert, or have any special experience.”
People Planet Pint was launched in Glasgow during COP26 when the city hosted the 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference.
“My world is climate technology, so I was very keen to get involved,” Ms Corse continues.
“And since the launch, groups are popping up all over the country.
“The idea has exploded, with new branches being set up every week.
“I kept wanting to join a meeting, but they were all too far away, so I decided to set up a local group.”
Ms Corse originally thought it should be in Reading.
“I didn’t know if there would be enough local interest to start a branch in Wokingham.
“But I really want to connect with local people, in the town where I live, and where my kids are at school.
“So I put my stake in the ground, and held the first meeting in November last year.
“Loads of people came, and it was great to find out that I’m not the only one.
“Everyone was amazed that there were all these Wokingham people interested in the environment.
“I think we’re on the cusp of something incredible.”
She is excited by the mix of people in the group, who are drawn from all ages.
“We’ve had students who are setting up the Regional Youth Climate Assembly for the South of England, and a farmer coping with the effects of climate change.
“We’ve heard about why a Wokingham zero waste and refillables shop owner changed career, and how an ex-engineer is starting a new climatech venture.
“It’s intergenerational, and there’s so much interest.
“Come along by yourself or with a friend – we’ll make you welcome.
“There’s no pressure – we’ll see what happens, but when you get people together, magic can happen.
“We’re putting Wokingham on the map.”
The group meets every couple of months at The Broad Street Tavern, Wokingham.
Events are always on a Thursday, from 6pm to 9pm.
Dates confirmed for 2023 are: Thursday, February 2, Thursday, April 6, Thursday, June 1, Thursday, September 7, and Thursday, November 2.
To find out more, visit: www.eventbrite.co.uk and search for People Planet Pint Wokingham.