HOPEing to help the climate

Local climate change campaigners from HOPE In North East Cheshire met with Macclesfield MP, David Rutley, recently, to discuss important climate change issues, as part of the national Climate Coalition Campaign.

Around a dozen members of the group were present for a thoughtful and informed discussion, at which attendees highlighted the problems posed by climate change, and the need to do more to tackle its causes and effects. David also received a petition from HOPE, signed by many local residents, calling on the Government to continue to make climate change prevention and mitigation a high priority.

As well as highlighting the effects of climate change in Cheshire and the UK, the group also explained its impact across the world. HOPE member Rev William Alaha Pwaisiho, Rector of Gawsworth and North Rode, spoke knowledgeably about his experiences relating to the Solomon Islands in the Pacific Ocean, where he was born. He explained how many of the landmarks and landscapes on the low-lying islands that he remembered as a child are now submerged as a result of rising sea levels caused by climate change.

In addition to important climate change issues, David spoke with HOPE members about other pressing environmental issues, including reducing single-use plastic waste, and conserving much-loved elephant species. David was able to update the group on his work in taking the Ivory Bill forward in Parliament.

HOPE In North East Cheshire brings together thirty-nine churches in and around Macclesfield and Bollington to support those in need in local communities and advocate for positive change on a variety of issues. Anyone interested in joining the group can contact Pop Mosscrop on pipmosscrop2@yahoo.co.uk.

Speaking after the event, David said, “I was pleased to be able to once again join campaigners from HOPE In North East Cheshire to discuss the important subject of climate change. The group has also been a tireless and committed voice for positive action in local communities, which has been a huge benefit to those in need – I am very grateful for this important work.”