# SWaCS

> Sustainable Waltham Chase and Swanmore


## Pages

- [Topics Directory](https://swacs.co.uk/resource-directory-topics)
- [A-Z Index](https://swacs.co.uk/a-z-index): A-Z list of tags used on the SWaCS website to explore by topic area.
- [SWaCS FAQs](https://swacs.co.uk/swacs-frequently-asked-questions): Sustainable Swanmore and Waltham Chase FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
- [SWaCS Updates](https://swacs.co.uk/swacs-activities): The latest updates on SWaCS activities
- [Cookie Policy (UK)](https://swacs.co.uk/cookie-policy-uk)
- [Search](https://swacs.co.uk/search)
- [Local news](https://swacs.co.uk/local-news): Local news relating to carbon footprint reduction in Swanmore, Waltham Chase and the surrounding areas.
- [Resource Directory](https://swacs.co.uk/resource-index): Links to useful resources that could help cut our carbon footprint in our area.
- [Our Links](https://swacs.co.uk/our-links): SWaCS works with a number of local organisations. Please contact us if you would like to discuss working together. WeCAN...
- [Home](https://swacs.co.uk/)
- [Contact](https://swacs.co.uk/contact)
- [Our Projects](https://swacs.co.uk/our-projects): SWaCS has already started several local projects aimed at cutting the carbon footprint in Waltham Chase, Shedfield and Swanmore. Please...
- [About SWaCS](https://swacs.co.uk/about-us): The group formed after a climate café held in Swanmore by Winchester Action on the Climate Crisis at the end...
- [Join Us](https://swacs.co.uk/join-us): Looking to do a bit of give back? Meet new people? Find a new challenge? We’re always on the lookout...


## Posts

- [Air quality monitoring](https://swacs.co.uk/air-quality-monitoring): The air quality monitoring project is an initiative to collect reliable local data on air quality.
- [Join the SWaCS air quality monitoring network](https://swacs.co.uk/join-the-swacs-air-quality-monitoring-network): We are look for volunteers to host an outdoor air quality monitoring to complement the existing monitor in Swanmore.
- [Thermal imaging camera season closes](https://swacs.co.uk/thermal-imaging-camera-season-closes): As we move into warmer months, another thermal imaging camera season has drawn to a close.
- [Swanmore air quality breaches WHO guidelines](https://swacs.co.uk/swanmore-air-quality-breaches-who-guidelines): Swanmore air quality had already breached the WHO annual air quality guideline by the 26th January this year.
- [Hampshire battery site approved](https://www.hampshirechronicle.co.uk/news/25934464.hampshire-battery-site-approved-despite-industrialisation-fears/): Winchester City Council's approve plans for a Battery Energy Storage System on Titchfield Lane, near Wickham.
- [Call for traffic order at river crossing](https://www.hampshirechronicle.co.uk/news/25906016.call-traffic-order-mill-lane-droxford-river-crossing): residents call for a traffic order to shield one of Hampshire’s rare chalk streams from damage caused by vehicles.
- [New solar panels for Wickham homes](https://meonvalleytimes.co.uk/new-solar-panels-installed-on-wickham-homes-to-cut-bills-and-emissions/): £35,000 solar retrofit for four Wickham Community Land Trust homes
- [Sewage spills threatening salmon survival, says MP](https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c9dn6q4n80eo): Sewage spills into a Hampshire river could threaten the future of Atlantic salmon, an MP has warned.
- [Sewage discharged into river Meon](https://meonvalleytimes.co.uk/sewage-discharged-into-river-meon-for-767-hours-in-first-two-months-of-2026/): Sewage discharged into the river Meon for 767 hours in the first two months of 2026
- [Food waste collections start](https://swacs.co.uk/food-waste-collections-start): Most of us in Swanmore should now have received our food waste bins from Winchester City Council
- [Live Swanmore Air Quality](https://app.airgradient.com/display/yGxqldRqV6/charts): Live Outdoor Air Quality monitor for Swanmore
- [New solar-powered post box in Swanmore](https://www.hampshirechronicle.co.uk/news/25588605.new-solar-powered-post-boxes-installed-hampshire/): New solar powered post boxes now accept small parcels
- [Planners approve massive 63 hectre solar farm in Wickham](https://www.dailyecho.co.uk/news/25501775.winchester-planners-approve-massive-63-hectre-countryside-solar-farm/): The plan would see 63 hectares across ten parcels of land near Shedfield and Wickham be used for solar panels.
- [Chat Climate](https://swacs.co.uk/chat-climate): If you’re interested in any aspect of caring for our environment join us at Chat Climate. We meet at local...
- [Winchester marked as the ‘top performing’ district council](https://www.winchester.gov.uk/news/2025/jun/winchester-city-council-marked-as-the-top-performing-district-council-in-the-country-for-their-work-on-the-climate-crisis): Climate Emergency UK awards Winchester City Council a score of 68% overall (an increase of 19%)
- [Hampshire-wide food waste recycling from April 2026](https://www.hants.gov.uk/News/20250623Foodwasterecyclying): Hampshire County Council has agreed to progress with arrangements that will see an estimated 30,000 to 50,000 tonnes of food...
- [Waste plant plan to boost home recycling wins £50m](https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c4g9yrvv181o): The materials recovery facility (MRF) will allow kerbside collections of waste such as glass and plastic trays, Hampshire County Council...
- [Winchester City Council awarded £3.4m for energy efficient homes](https://www.hampshirechronicle.co.uk/news/25067997.winchester-city-council-awarded-3-4m-energy-efficient-homes/): Winchester City Council has been awarded £3. 4 million to improve the energy efficiency of its council homes.
- [Hampshire Market Garden](https://hampshiremarketgarden.co.uk/): Hampshire Market Garden are a not-for-profit social enterprise that grows organic veg with a focus on soil health.
- [Save 9% in gas use, by turning down the 'flow' temperature](https://www.theheatinghub.co.uk/articles/turn-down-the-boiler-flow-temperature): Lowering your boiler flow temperature can make your existing gas boiler more efficient.
- [Wildflower and wildlife haven for Swanmore car park](https://www.hampshirechronicle.co.uk/news/24926085.area-swanmore-car-park-become-wildflower-wildlife-haven/): Swanmore Wildflower Group to rewild an unused patch of land in the village car park.
- [A forest community's battle for affordable clean energy](https://swacs.co.uk/a-forest-communitys-battle-for-affordable-clean-energy): This inspiring video shows how a local community can come together to work for affordable, clean energy to power their...
- [Have your say on South Downs National Park’s Local Plan Review](https://www.southdowns.gov.uk/have-your-say-on-south-downs-national-parks-local-plan-review/): An eight-week consultation begins this month as the National Park invites people to have their say on how and where...
- [Winchester electric vehicle charging hub construction](https://www.hampshirechronicle.co.uk/news/24760115.winchester-electric-vehicle-charging-hub-construction-update/): The superhub, developed by InstaVolt, is set to have 44 ultra-rapid chargers powered by 100 per cent renewable energy when...
- [Could a thermal camera reveal your home's hidden heat loss?](https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cy9j10wj78wo): Thermal cameras are becoming more popular, as homeowners seek to slash their heating bills and carbon emissions.
- [Winchester City Council reveals major carbon reduction](https://www.hampshirechronicle.co.uk/news/24742804.winchester-city-council-reveals-major-carbon-reduction/): Winchester City Council is set to reveal a forecasted 96 per cent reduction in its carbon emissions.
- [A Cleaner, Greener District](https://swacs.co.uk/a-cleaner-greener-district): Cabinet Member for the Climate Emergency, Cllr Kelsie Learney on Winchester City Council's carbon neutral journey.
- [Southampton rail freight scheme cuts lorry journeys by 64,000](https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c1knr8ejzx0o): DP World in Southampton started offering a financial incentive to move shipping containers by rail in September 2023.
- [Hinton Ampner - Community Tree Planting](https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/hampshire/hinton-ampner/involving-volunteers-community-visitors): As the Reimagining a Hampshire Estate project begins to transform Hinton Ampner for visitors and nature, there are continuing opportunities...
- [How to stop heat loss from your home](https://elliotts.uk/ideas-and-advice/how-to-stop-heat-loss-from-your-home): A handy guide to home heat loss prevention from local builders merchant Elliotts
- [Ships to plug in at port to beat pollution](https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/creznxvvjg1o): Work to enable cross-Channel ferries and cruise ships to plug into electricity from ashore is beginning this week at one...
- [Second season of thermal imaging launches](https://swacs.co.uk/second-season-of-thermal-imaging-launches): Our second season of thermal imaging is now underway in and around Swanmore.
- [CO2 pipeline plan axed](https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c4glw4dyw8no): Plans to build a carbon dioxide pipeline on the Isle of Wight have been scrapped.
- [Plan to turn Funtley Refuse Tip into solar farm](https://www.dailyecho.co.uk/news/24608398.plan-turn-funtley-refuse-tip-solar-farm-back/): There are plans to turn a former landfill site near Fareham into a solar farm after previous plans were withdrawn.
- [Garden Organic](https://www.gardenorganic.org.uk/): Garden Organic promotes organic growing and composting.
- [Warmer Homes](https://www.warmerhomes.org.uk/): Warmer Homes can provide a range of fully-funded energy efficiency improvements for your home and is led by Portsmouth City...
- [Net Zero Living: Pathfinder Places](https://oneplanet.com/case-studies/south-downs-national-park/): How the South Downs National Park Authority is accelerating their transition to net zero.
- [Household bin collection changes reduces carbon emissions](https://www.winchester.gov.uk/changes-to-household-bin-collections): Route changes and first 100% electric waste and recycling vehicle help Winchester City Council reduce carbon emissions.
- [CO2 pipeline 'could devastate coast' residents told](https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cn7ymg1v4x2o): More than 150 residents have gathered to oppose plans for a planned carbon dioxide pipeline on the Isle of Wight.
- [Improving air quality across the district](https://www.winchester.gov.uk/news/2024/sep/improving-air-quality-across-the-district): Winchester City Council has a new strategy for improving air quality and they are asking for people across the district...
- [Cricket ground goes green in solar power switch](https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cz07krz2z42o): Cricket stadium switches to solar power in a bid to become "the greenest ground in the world".
- [Sharing Surplus Food Toolkit](https://www.winchesterfoodpartnership.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/WFP-Toolkit-Sharing-Surplus-Food.pdf): Winchester Food Partnership guide to sharing surplus edible food, which for various reasons, can’t be sold.
- [Local garage forced to close due to petrol station EV plans](https://meonvalleytimes.co.uk/exclusive-garage-forced-to-close-due-to-oil-giants-expansion-plans-for-petrol-station/): A popular garage in Wickham is having to close because of expansion plans for the site, which include a new...
- [Winchester Veg Cities](https://www.winchesterfoodpartnership.org.uk/veg-cities/): Veg Cities aims to encourage cities and towns in the UK to promote the consumption of fresh, locally sourced vegetables...
- [Wickham Men's Shed](https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555414208313): Men’s Shed is a new group building and repairing things for the community.
- [Men's Shed Bishops Waltham](http://www.bwmensshed.club): Men’s Sheds are place for anyone to come and do some practical work or just to socialise and have fun.
- [FOSPS Swanmore School Uniform Swap](https://www.facebook.com/groups/4155918511107474): FOSPS have created a Facebook group to help families to donate and receive good quality second-hand school uniform.
- [Swanmore Sell and Buy](https://www.facebook.com/groups/771502594366671): A Facebook group for the residents of Swanmore and surrounding area to sell and buy items locally.
- [Solar Together Hampshire](https://www.hants.gov.uk/landplanningandenvironment/environment/climatechange/whatarewedoing/projects/solarbuyingscheme): A group-buying scheme that brings Hampshire homeowners together to get solar panels and battery storage at a competitive price.
- [Follow us on Facebook](https://swacs.co.uk/follow-us-on-facebook): Our new Facebook page is now live. Follow us to get all of the latest news.
- [Local produce guide](https://hampshirefare.co.uk/directory-search/): Explore local food and drink with this guide from Hampshire Fare.
- [Six new rapid EV charge points in Winchester car parks](https://www.winchester.gov.uk/news/2024/aug/6-new-rapid-ev-charge-points-in-winchester-car-parks): Winchester City Council has installed three new rapid electric vehicle (EV) chargers taking the total number of chargers provided by...
- [Local car parks with EV chargers](https://www.winchester.gov.uk/parking/other-parking-facilities#): Winchester City Council has a network of Electric Vehicle charging points (EVCP)s across the district.
- [Making the EV switch](https://swacs.co.uk/switch-to-an-electric-vehicle): Moving to an all electric vehicle can be daunting, but there's never been a better time to make the switch.
- [Get your bike security marked for FREE](https://swacs.co.uk/get-your-bike-security-marked-for-free): Winchester City Council have joined forces with Winchester Police to host a free Bike Register event in Bishop’s Waltham.
- [Petersfield Climate Action Network (PeCAN)](https://petersfieldcan.org/): PeCAN - Helping Petersfield and surrounding villages to reduce carbon emissions and protect nature
- [Green Owslebury (GrOws)](https://owslebury.org/grows/): GrOws is a group of climate change enthusiasts based in Owslebury.
- [Climate Action for Newtown and Soberton (CANS)](https://www.facebook.com/ClimateActionNewtownSoberton/): Climate Action Group for the villages of Newtown and Soberton in the Meon Valley.
- [Boost for green energy in Hampshire with £1.5m funding](https://www.hampshirechronicle.co.uk/news/24503608.boost-green-energy-hampshire-1-5m-funding/): Lower energy bills could be enjoyed by more people in the future as communities are empowered to lead climate change...
- [Recycle bike hub](https://www.recyclebikehub.com/): Recycle bike hub take donated bikes and make them 'fit to ride' for the next lucky cyclist.
- [What is community energy?](https://www.winacc.org.uk/what-is-community-energy-2/): Community energy means local ownership and control of solar panels and wind turbines. Usually not for profit, using excess profits...
- [Installation of solar panels at the Jubilee Hall](https://swacs.co.uk/installation-of-solar-panels-at-the-jubilee-hall): The installation of solar panels at the Jubilee Hall has commenced.
- [Shedfield Greening](https://www.facebook.com/groups/1441970603180306/): Shedfield Greening is a local Greening Campaign group that aims to tackles climate change at a community level where everyone...
- [Community Energy](https://swacs.co.uk/community-energy): SWaCS are exploring the potential for a Community Energy (CE) project in our area and we need your input.
- [Energise South Downs](https://esd.energy/): Energise South Downs is a community partner for the delivery of sustainable energy solutions in the South Downs National Park...
- [Upham Action on Climate Crisis (UpACC)](https://uphamvillage.org.uk/upacc/): The UpACC project was initiated following a ‘Climate Café’ meeting, organised by the Parish Council.
- [Shopping greener](https://swacs.co.uk/shopping-greener): Updated! We asked our local shops if they had any good green practices they could share and this is what...
- [What can I put in my recycling bin?](https://swacs.co.uk/what-can-i-put-in-my-recycling-bin): It’s not always clear what you can put in your recycling bin and finding the information online isn’t always easy....
- [CO2 storage in the English Channel](https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/ce4q19jgexvo): Exxon Mobil is seeking approval for the Solent CO2 Pipeline Project, which would see a pipe running from its Fawley...
- [County council refuses to stop vehicles harming rare chalk stream by driving in river](https://meonvalleytimes.co.uk/county-council-refuses-to-stop-vehicles-harming-rare-chalk-stream-by-driving-in-river/): Hampshire County Council has refused to place a traffic order to protect against the ongoing impact of vehicles driving through...
- [Greening Bishops Waltham](https://www.greeningbishopswaltham.uk/): Greening Bishops Waltham is a local Greening Campaign group that aims to tackles climate change at a community level where...
- [Sustainable Bishops Waltham](https://www.facebook.com/SustainableBW/?paipv=0&eav=Afaql_kRlXVzdlfNeaqPoycOpXYiud10h_k7SDHifOMOvzmDTpT5FXrGufIyH4xp2Dk&_rdr): Sustainable Bishops Waltham is a local group of residents who have come together to help everyone in Bishop's Waltham to...
- [Award win for UK’s first second-hand goods carbon calculator](https://emmaus.org.uk/hampshire/award-win-second-hand-carbon-calculator/): A second-hand carbon calculator has won the best Technology and Digital Innovation category in the Winchester Business Excellence Awards.
- [Hampshire County Council cuts back on grass cutting to help wildlife](https://meonvalleytimes.co.uk/county-council-cuts-back-on-grass-cutting-this-month-to-help-wildlife/): The council said it is supporting the national campaign 'No Mow May to encourage garden owners to put their mowers...
- [Local Transport Plan 4](https://www.winacc.org.uk/local-transport-plan-4-3/): The Local Transport Plan is Hampshire County Council’s framework for all that happens in transport across the county for the...
- [Hampshire Hospitals NHS Trust curbs carbon emissions with recycling](https://www.hampshirechronicle.co.uk/news/24311547.hampshire-hospitals-nhs-trust-curbs-carbon-emissions-recycling/): Event aims to inform the public about different sustainable initiatives put in place at hospitals managed by the Trust in...
- [Renewable Energy in Winchester District 2024 Report](https://www.winacc.org.uk/renewable-energy-in-winchester-district-2024-report/): The Renewable Energy Report is an annual summary of data on installations generating energy from renewable sources in Winchester District.
- [Hampshire recycling firm tries for retrospective approval again](https://www.hampshirechronicle.co.uk/news/24297954.hampshire-recycling-firm-tries-retrospective-approval/): A HAMPSHIRE recycling firm based in Shedfield has amended plans to keep using land which was open countryside as a...
- [The Sustainability Centre](https://swacs.co.uk/the-sustainability-centre): The Sustainability Centre aims to educate, enable and inspire people from all walks of life to make positive changes to...
- [Free solar panel support for Winchester community organisations](https://www.winacc.org.uk/community-solar-support-scheme/): Free solar panel support for Winchester community organisations
- [Meon Valley Partnership](http://www.meonvalleypartnership.org.uk/): The Meon Valley Partnership is made up of volunteers, professionals and local people all with an interest in a healthy...
- [Meon Valley Repair Cafe](https://swacs.co.uk/meon-valley-repair-cafe): Volunteer repair experts available to help repair every day broken items free of charge. Anything that is broken is welcome.
- [Bike Dr at the Meon Valley Repair Café](https://swacs.co.uk/bike-dr-at-the-meon-valley-repair-cafe): Fifteen bikes were checked for free by RideRide Cycle Workshop on the first Saturday in April at the Meon Valley...
- [Computer and IT equipment recycling](https://swacs.co.uk/computer-recycling): Hampshire Computer Recycling offer FREE collections throughout the UK with free next day collections in Hampshire.
- [What can I do with an outgrown, unwanted or damaged cycle?](https://swacs.co.uk/what-can-i-do-with-an-outgrown-unwanted-or-damaged-cycle): If you need to make space and are happy not to make money from an unwanted cycle there are a...
- [Find local recycling points](https://www.recyclenow.com/): Search for local recycling points for different household items with recycle now.
- [New orchard and hedgerow project blossoms at Wickham Community Centre](https://meonvalleytimes.co.uk/new-orchard-and-hedgerow-project-blossoms-at-wickham-community-centre/): A community garden's bid for trees and hedging has proved fruitful and it's just planted nine fruit trees and 65...
- [Hampshire and Dorset councils to get millions for food waste collection](https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-hampshire-68665029): Local councils due to receive an estimated £11. 5m in funding from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs...
- [Southampton metro system idea being explored](https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-hampshire-68629419): The possibility of a metro system for Southampton is being explored, the city council has revealed.
- [Retrofit for older homes](https://www.winacc.org.uk/retrofit-for-older-homes/): Retrofitting an older home to be energy efficient can be more challenging, but WinACC have some resources that may help.
- [Air source heat pumps](https://energysavingtrust.org.uk/advice/air-source-heat-pumps/): An air source heat pump transfers heat from the outside air to heat your home. The Energy Savings Trust explain...
- [Loop Energy - Smart Meter App](https://swacs.co.uk/loop-energy-smart-meter-app): The free Loop Energy Smart Meter App is a great way to understand your electricity consumption and reduce bills.
- [Shedfield event aims to help farmers cut carbon footprint](https://www.hampshirechronicle.co.uk/news/24193509.hampshire-event-aims-help-farmers-cut-carbon-footprint/): An event this month in Shirrel Heath, near Shedfield will reveal the secrets behind low-carbon cereals, enabling farmers to cultivate...
- [Home solar panels](https://swacs.co.uk/home-solar-panels): Recent installations on two houses owned by SWaCS members currently indicate that the panels should pay for themselves in around...
- [Bike Dr at the Meon Valley Repair Café](https://swacs.co.uk/bike-dr-event-at-the-meon-valley-repair-cafe): As transport is the second biggest cause of carbon pollution in our villages, we are teaming up with the Meon...
- [Waltham Chase litter pick](https://swacs.co.uk/waltham-chase-litter-pick): Our first 'rubbish walk' in February started at Waltham Chase Village Hall and ended in the same spot with a...
- [Thermal Imaging Camera Loan Scheme](https://swacs.co.uk/thermal-imaging): Worried about winter energy bills? Take the first steps to lower costs with a free thermal imaging survey
- [Join us for a FREE cycle check-up](https://swacs.co.uk/join-us-for-a-free-cycle-check-up): join us for a FREE bike check-up and minor repairs with RideRide at the next Meon Valley Repair Café on...
- [Greener, more sustainable homes](https://www.winacc.org.uk/greener-more-sustainable-homes/): Are you thinking about ways to improve your home so it’s fit for the future?
- [Winchester Park and Ride buses to switch from diesel to vegetable oil](https://www.hampshirechronicle.co.uk/news/24162768.winchester-park-ride-buses-switch-diesel-vegetable-oil/): WINCHESTER’S Park and Ride buses are getting a green upgrade as part of a new contract between the city council...
- [South Downs Authority welcomes government environmental targets](https://www.hampshirechronicle.co.uk/news/24122791.south-downs-authority-welcomes-government-environmental-targets/): Protected landscapes highlighted as being crucial to combating climate change.


## Events

- [Swanmore Energy Efficient Open Home](https://swacs.co.uk/event/swanmore-energy-efficient-open-home): Join us for a tour of this family home to explore energy-saving solutions and discuss the pros and cons with...
- [Chat Climate](https://swacs.co.uk/event/chat-climate-2): Wondering whether renewable energy is for you? Or what you can do to help wildlife? Join us at Chat Climate.
- [Meon Valley Repair Cafe](https://swacs.co.uk/event/meon-valley-repair-cafe-15): Volunteer repair experts available to help repair every day broken items free of charge. Anything that is broken is welcome.
- [Meon Valley Repair Cafe](https://swacs.co.uk/event/meon-valley-repair-cafe-14): Volunteer repair experts available to help repair every day broken items free of charge. Anything that is broken is welcome.
- [Meon Valley Repair Cafe](https://swacs.co.uk/event/meon-valley-repair-cafe-16): Volunteer repair experts available to help repair every day broken items free of charge. Anything that is broken is welcome.
- [Meon Valley Repair Cafe](https://swacs.co.uk/event/meon-valley-repair-cafe-17): Volunteer repair experts available to help repair every day broken items free of charge. Anything that is broken is welcome.
- [Meon Valley Repair Cafe](https://swacs.co.uk/event/meon-valley-repair-cafe-18): Volunteer repair experts available to help repair every day broken items free of charge. Anything that is broken is welcome.
- [Meon Valley Repair Cafe](https://swacs.co.uk/event/meon-valley-repair-cafe-19): Volunteer repair experts available to help repair every day broken items free of charge. Anything that is broken is welcome.
- [Film Screening: Six inches of soil](https://swacs.co.uk/event/film-screening-six-inches-of-soil): Film Screening: Six inches of soil - The inspiring story of British farmers standing up against the industrial food system
- [Chat Climate](https://swacs.co.uk/event/chat-climate): Wondering whether renewable energy is for you? Or what you can do to help wildlife? Join us at the Rising...
- [Homes Retrofit Advice Surgery](https://swacs.co.uk/event/homes-retrofit-surgery): Explore how to create a warmer home, reduce your energy bills and cut back on carbon emissions with a qualified...
- [Rubbish Walk](https://swacs.co.uk/event/rubbish-walk-2): Come and join us for a ‘Rubbish Walk’ and litter-pick in Waltham Chase.
- [Meon Valley Repair Cafe](https://swacs.co.uk/event/meon-valley-repair-cafe-9): Volunteer repair experts available to help repair every day broken items free of charge. Anything that is broken is welcome.
- [Meon Valley Repair Cafe](https://swacs.co.uk/event/meon-valley-repair-cafe-10): Volunteer repair experts available to help repair every day broken items free of charge. Anything that is broken is welcome.
- [Meon Valley Repair Cafe](https://swacs.co.uk/event/meon-valley-repair-cafe-11): Volunteer repair experts available to help repair every day broken items free of charge. Anything that is broken is welcome.
- [Meon Valley Repair Cafe](https://swacs.co.uk/event/meon-valley-repair-cafe-12): Volunteer repair experts available to help repair every day broken items free of charge. Anything that is broken is welcome.
- [Meon Valley Repair Cafe](https://swacs.co.uk/event/meon-valley-repair-cafe-13): Volunteer repair experts available to help repair every day broken items free of charge. Anything that is broken is welcome.
- [Waltham Chase Community Tree Planting](https://swacs.co.uk/event/community-tree-planting): Get your boots on and help reach the goal of planting one million trees in Hampshire by 2050.
- [Future Energy Landscapes Workshop](https://swacs.co.uk/event/future-energy-landscapes-workshop): How might Swanmore, Shedfield and Waltham Chase power its community using locally produced renewable energy?
- [Doing business sustainably](https://swacs.co.uk/event/doing-business-sustainably): Do you want to find out how to make your business more sustainable?
- [Rubbish Walk](https://swacs.co.uk/event/rubbish-walk): Come and join us for an autumnal ‘Rubbish Walk’ and litter-pick in Waltham Chase.
- [Save Our Tips Protest](https://swacs.co.uk/event/save-our-tips-protest): The protest will take place outside the Bishop's Waltham tip on Claylands Road at midday Saturday 12th Oct.
- [Greening Bishop's Waltham Launch Event](https://swacs.co.uk/event/greening-bishops-waltham-launch-event): Concerned about increases in food and fuel costs? Concerned that our water courses are polluted? Concerned what impact climate change...
- [Hambledon Greening Festival](https://swacs.co.uk/event/hambledon-greening-festival): An eco street with green stalls, art exhibition, beer, tea and cake, ice cream and BBQ, family-friendly activities and live...
- [Winchester Green Open Homes](https://swacs.co.uk/event/winchester-green-open-homes): During Winchester Green Week visit homes in the Winchester area that have had green upgrades, including solar panel and heat...
- [Winchester Green Week](https://swacs.co.uk/event/winchester-green-week): A week of events for everyone, organised by local communities, environmental groups, educational institutions, faith groups, local authorities and businesses...
- [Thermal imaging surveys open for booking](https://swacs.co.uk/event/thermal-imaging-surveys-open-for-booking): Worried about winter energy bills? Take the first steps to lower costs with a free thermal imaging survey
- [Get your bike security marked for FREE](https://swacs.co.uk/event/get-your-bike-security-marked-for-free): Winchester City Council have joined forces with Winchester Police to host a Bike Register event in Bishop’s Waltham.
- [Meon Valley Repair Cafe](https://swacs.co.uk/event/meon-valley-repair-cafe-6): Volunteer repair experts available to help repair every day broken items free of charge. Anything that is broken is welcome.
- [Meon Valley Repair Cafe](https://swacs.co.uk/event/meon-valley-repair-cafe-7): Volunteer repair experts available to help repair every day broken items free of charge. Anything that is broken is welcome.
- [Meon Valley Repair Cafe](https://swacs.co.uk/event/meon-valley-repair-cafe-8): Volunteer repair experts available to help repair every day broken items free of charge. Anything that is broken is welcome.
- [Climate Cafe](https://swacs.co.uk/event/climate-cafe): Come and join SWaCS for an informal evening to talk about all things relating to climate change and what that...
- [Love your village litter pick](https://swacs.co.uk/event/love-your-village-litter-pick): Join us for an amble, a chat and the chance to show Waltham Chase a little love while sprucing up...
- [Women's Bike Ride](https://swacs.co.uk/event/womens-bike-ride): This free event is organised by SWaCS and Lets Ride as part of a focus on sustainable transport. It will...
- [Rubbish Walk Litter Pick](https://swacs.co.uk/event/rubbish-walk-litter-pick): Join us for an amble, a chat and the chance to show Waltham Chase a little love while sprucing up...
- [Meon Valley Repair Cafe](https://swacs.co.uk/event/meon-valley-repair-cafe): Volunteer repair experts available to help repair every day broken items free of charge. Anything that is broken is welcome.
- [Meon Valley Repair Cafe](https://swacs.co.uk/event/meon-valley-repair-cafe-2): Volunteer repair experts available to help repair every day broken items free of charge. Anything that is broken is welcome.
- [Meon Valley Repair Cafe](https://swacs.co.uk/event/meon-valley-repair-cafe-3): Volunteer repair experts available to help repair every day broken items free of charge. Anything that is broken is welcome.
- [Meon Valley Repair Cafe](https://swacs.co.uk/event/meon-valley-repair-cafe-4): Volunteer repair experts available to help repair every day broken items free of charge. Anything that is broken is welcome.
- [Meon Valley Repair Cafe](https://swacs.co.uk/event/meon-valley-repair-cafe-5): Volunteer repair experts available to help repair every day broken items free of charge. Anything that is broken is welcome.
- [Eco Fair Bishops Waltham](https://swacs.co.uk/event/repair-cycle-cafe): Join us for 2024 Bishop’s Waltham Eco Fair at Jubilee Hall in Bishop’s Waltham.
- [Cycle Repair Cafe](https://swacs.co.uk/event/cycle-repair-cafe): As transport is the second biggest cause of carbon pollution in our villages, we are teaming up with the Meon...
- [Waltham Chase litter pick](https://swacs.co.uk/event/waltham-chase-litter-pick): Our first ‘Rubbish Walk’ in February 2024 starts and ends at Waltham Chase Village Hall. Bin bags, litter pickers and...

#
# Detailed Content


## Pages

- Published: 2024-09-02
- Modified: 2024-09-02
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/a-z-index

A-Z list of tags used on the SWaCS website to explore by topic area.


- Published: 2024-08-20
- Modified: 2024-08-22
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/swacs-frequently-asked-questions

Sustainable Swanmore and Waltham Chase FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) Is there a Swanmore Greening group? No, but SWaCS covers the Swanmore area and has similar aims to the greening association. About SWaCS Is there a Waltham Chase Greening group? No, but SWaCS covers the Waltham Chase area and has similar aims to the greening association. About SWaCS Is SWaCS part of a larger organisation such as the Greening group? Yes, SWaCS is a group that was set up by WinACC - Winchester Action on Climate Change and is part of the WeCAN networkWeCAN – Winchester Action on Climate Crisis (winacc. org. uk) What can I do with an outgrown, unwanted or damaged cycle in Swanmore and Waltham Chase? Check out our local guide to recycling bikes. What can I put in my recycling bin in Swanmore and Waltham Chase? Check out our guide to what you can recycle at home. How can I recycle old computers in Swanmore and Waltham Chase? Check out our local guide on how to recycle computers.


- Published: 2024-05-07
- Modified: 2024-08-22
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/swacs-activities

The latest updates on SWaCS activities


- Published: 2024-03-25
- Modified: 2024-09-18
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/local-news

Local news relating to carbon footprint reduction in Swanmore, Waltham Chase and the surrounding areas.


- Published: 2024-03-24
- Modified: 2025-02-20
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/resource-index

Links to useful resources that could help cut our carbon footprint in our area. Energy productionFoodHome HeatingLocal groups and organisationsReferenceReuse, repair, recycleTransport


- Published: 2024-03-21
- Modified: 2024-08-21
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/our-links

SWaCS works with a number of local organisations. Please contact us if you would like to discuss working together. WeCAN Network member since Nov 2022 We also share ideas and work together with groups in neighbouring villages that have a similar interest through the WeCAN network.


- Published: 2024-03-19
- Modified: 2025-12-29
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/

Sustainable Waltham Chase and Swanmore Volunteers working with our communities to cut our carbon footprint  Learn more about SWaCS SWaCS Updates View more SWaCS updates Resource Directory Links to local resources that can help reduce carbon footprint in Swanmore, Waltham Chase and the surrounding area (some links are to external websites). Energy productionFoodHome HeatingLocal groups and organisationsReferenceReuse, repair, recycleTransport View all our sustainable resources Local sustainability news Local news relating to carbon footprint reduction in Swanmore, Waltham Chase and the surrounding areas (links are to external websites). View more local news Cookie Policy | A-Z Index


- Published: 2024-03-19
- Modified: 2024-08-22
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/contact

Get in touch You can also check out our FAQs page.


- Published: 2024-03-19
- Modified: 2025-08-19
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/our-projects

SWaCS has already started several local projects aimed at cutting the carbon footprint in Waltham Chase, Shedfield and Swanmore. Please contact us if you would like to get involved in an existing project or have an idea for a new project for the group.


- Published: 2024-03-19
- Modified: 2024-09-02
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/about-us

The group formed after a climate café held in Swanmore by Winchester Action on the Climate Crisis at the end of 2022 and followed the declaration of a climate emergency by both Hampshire County Council and Winchester City Council in 2019. With members from two villages, Sustainable Waltham Chase and Swanmore was born to provide a way to learn about and find ways of reducing the carbon footprint of our communities We work with local councils, national, regional and village organisations and businesses and are part of the Winchester Climate Action Network (WeCAN) which brings together similar groups in the district to share learning, experiences, resources and inspiration! The big greenhouse gas-producing activities – higher than average in both our villages - are home energy and transport. We acknowledge that action for change needs to come from different levels, systemic change from national government and local government, as well as the businesses we run, work for or whose services we use. But there is plenty that individuals can do too – especially when we get together. Get Involved


- Published: 2024-03-19
- Modified: 2024-09-02
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/join-us

Part of the team on the SWaCS stand at the Eco Fair in Bishops Waltham. Looking to do a bit of give back? Meet new people? Find a new challenge? We’re always on the lookout for people to join us. If technology is your thing, our thermal imaging camera and home energy crew would welcome you on board. Can you spare some time to help out with our social media? Do you have experience with grant funding applications? Or perhaps you like organising events or have a passion for gardening or baking? Whatever your talents we can put them to good use. But, most importantly it’s not all hard work, we aim to enjoy what we do – not sure? Get in touch to have a chat, we’d love to hear from you. Get in touch




## Posts

- Published: 2026-04-13
- Modified: 2026-04-13
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/air-quality-monitoring
- Categories: Project
- Tags: Air Quality, Pollution, Projects

The air quality monitoring project is an initiative to collect reliable local data on air quality.

Living in the countryside it is easy to assume that our air quality is better than in the city, but the reality is that Waltham Chase and Swanmore frequently suffer from pollution. Unfortunately air quality monitoring coverage in the UK is sparse. The SWaCS air quality monitoring is an initiative to collect reliable local data and raise awareness of the issue.


- Published: 2026-04-13
- Modified: 2026-04-13
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/join-the-swacs-air-quality-monitoring-network
- Categories: Air Quality Monitoring, Front page news

We are look for volunteers to host an outdoor air quality monitoring to complement the existing monitor in Swanmore.

We are look for volunteers to host an outdoor air quality monitoring to complement the existing monitor in Swanmore. Ideally we would like to see 3-4 monitors across Waltham Chase and Swanmore to help rule out hyper-local pollution spikes. airgradient Open Air outdoor air quality monitor The unit we are using is a relatively inexpensive airgradient Open Air, a small device that sits outside and requires a USB power supply to operate. AirGradient is a company that builds open-source air quality monitors for indoor and outdoor use, measuring PM2. 5, CO2, temperature, and humidity. It promotes affordable sensors, community data sharing, and real-time dashboards for environmental awareness, helping schools, homes, and organizations improve ventilation and health decisions globally. The unit cost is $125 (US dollars) in kit form (or $225 fully assembled). https://www. airgradient. com/outdoor If you are interested in helping this initiative please get in touch. The unit provides a live data stream showing current air quality.


- Published: 2026-03-19
- Modified: 2026-03-19
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/thermal-imaging-camera-season-closes
- Categories: Front page news, Thermal Survey

As we move into warmer months, another thermal imaging camera season has drawn to a close.

As we move into warmer months, another thermal imaging camera season has drawn to a close for Sustainable Waltham Chase and Swanmore (SWaCS).   Ten people borrowed the camera to the end of February, but plenty were still on the waiting list as the warm autumn meant a delay in the surveys starting.  We’re sorry if you have been unable to survey this year.   The age of the buildings imaged ranged from relatively new buildings from the 1990s to listed buildings, one including a section dating to the 1400s.   A number of people used the camera to check the effectiveness of existing insulation or recent building works, others checked whether radiators needed bleeding.   The free loan gives borrowers a chance to investigate specific points of heat loss, it’s not just about looking for major issues.  By highlighting small factors, simple fixes, like draught proofing, radiator reflectors and warmer curtains or blinds to boost cosiness and reduce energy bills, are possible.   The camera will be out for loan again next autumn when the temperatures drop and we’re happy to bring it along to talks or events – we’ll be at Swanmore Fete in July so do drop by for a chat.  


- Published: 2026-03-19
- Modified: 2026-04-13
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/swanmore-air-quality-breaches-who-guidelines
- Categories: Air Quality Monitoring, Front page news

Swanmore air quality had already breached the WHO annual air quality guideline by the 26th January this year.

Swanmore air quality had already breached the WHO annual air quality guideline by the 26th January this year. It's tempting to think that because we live in a rural community, the air we breathe is healthy and fresh. The WHO air quality guideline (AQG) states that annual average concentrations of PM2. 5 should not exceed 5 µg/m3, while 24-hour average exposures should not exceed 15 µg/m3 more than 3 - 4 days per year. The Swanmore air quality monitor, set up by SWaCS last year, has already seen the 24-hour average breached 10 days so far in 2026, with the 90-day average currently running at 4. 9 µg/m3 - only a fraction below the annual guideline. Swanmore air quality Q1 2026 While our air quality here in the village is sometimes affected by things out of our control, such as big ships docked in Southampton or Portsmouth and pollution coming in from mainland Europe, some of the pollution is generated much closer to home. Wood-burning stoves are now recognised as a significant contributor to air pollution in the UK, particularly through the release of fine particulate matter (PM2. 5), which can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream. Despite being used by a minority of households, domestic wood burning is responsible for a large share of these emissions—around 20–38% of PM2. 5 in some estimates—making it one of the biggest sources of this harmful pollutant nationally . Studies show that using a wood burner can temporarily increase indoor particle levels by up to...


- Published: 2026-02-25
- Modified: 2026-03-19
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/food-waste-collections-start
- Categories: Front page news

Most of us in Swanmore should now have received our food waste bins from Winchester City Council

Most of us in Swanmore should have received our food waste bins from Winchester City Council back in February and have been sending off our leftovers each week but with many of us in the village making our own compost are the waste caddies worth it? The initial cost of the scheme was paid for by the government across the country and as 60% of food waste occurs in our homes – over 9 million tonnes across the UK each year - it is estimated that by cutting out waste a family of four could save up to £1,000 per year.   For people who already compost, the new caddies keep teabags, bones, meat and fish out of the general waste bin.  By using our new caddies, we can make sure our leftovers are put to good use making renewable energy and fertiliser instead of polluting the planet. To mark Food Waste Week, March 9-13, two of the SWaCS team dropped into our local pubs to find out how they handle food waste and whether they offer small portions as standard or light bites.


- Published: 2025-08-19
- Modified: 2025-08-19
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/chat-climate
- Categories: Front page news, Project
- Tags: Business, Carbon Footprint, Community Energy, Projects, Renewable Energy, Workshop

If you’re interested in any aspect of caring for our environment join us at Chat Climate. We meet at local pubs around the area several times a year

Join the chat! If you’re interested in any aspect of caring for our environment join us at Chat Climate with the team from Sustainable Waltham Chase and Swanmore. We meet at local pubs around the area several times a year


- Published: 2025-01-20
- Modified: 2025-02-20
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/a-forest-communitys-battle-for-affordable-clean-energy
- Categories: Community Energy, Energy production
- Tags: Community Energy

This inspiring video shows how a local community can come together to work for affordable, clean energy to power their homes.

https://youtu. be/KliF6Abpee8? si=JOUPZlIPKm8gKJq_ This inspiring video shows how a local community can come together to work for affordable, clean energy to power their homes. Forest of Dean residents have teamed up with their District Council to reduce energy bills for homes and businesses, protect the environment and reduce carbon footprints. Find out more and have your say at our interactive Future Energy Landscapes workshop about how Swanmore and Waltham Chase could power our community using locally produced renewable energy. Sat 25 Jan at 10am at Swanmore Village Hall. More info and book your free place at future energy landscapes And find out more about Forest Community Energy at Forest Community Energy and on the FOD Facebook pages .


- Published: 2024-11-25
- Modified: 2025-02-20
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/a-cleaner-greener-district
- Categories: External news
- Tags: Climate Emergency, CO2 Reduction, Environment, Winchester, Winchester City Council

Cabinet Member for the Climate Emergency, Cllr Kelsie Learney on Winchester City Council's carbon neutral journey.

Winchester City Council declared a climate emergency in June 2019 and since then they have committed to helping the district become carbon neutral by 2030, creating a cleaner, greener district for future generations. In this video, Cabinet Member for the Climate Emergency, Cllr Kelsie Learney, talks through the different ways they are working to become a carbon neutral as an organisation, and how they are supporting the wider district to do the same. https://www. youtube. com/watch? v=f3ppBydGaZI


- Published: 2024-11-07
- Modified: 2025-02-20
- URL: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/hampshire/hinton-ampner/involving-volunteers-community-visitors
- Categories: External news
- Tags: CO2 Reduction, Environment

As the Reimagining a Hampshire Estate project begins to transform Hinton Ampner for visitors and nature, there are continuing opportunities for volunteers and the local community to get involved.

As the Reimagining a Hampshire Estate project begins to transform Hinton Ampner for visitors and nature, there are continuing opportunities for volunteers and the local community to get involved.


- Published: 2024-11-07
- Modified: 2025-02-20
- URL: https://elliotts.uk/ideas-and-advice/how-to-stop-heat-loss-from-your-home
- Categories: Home Heating
- Tags: Heating, Homes

A handy guide to home heat loss prevention from local builders merchant Elliotts

A handy guide to home heat loss prevention from local builders merchant Elliotts


- Published: 2024-10-27
- Modified: 2025-12-29
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/second-season-of-thermal-imaging-launches
- Categories: Thermal Survey
- Tags: Energy, Homes, Swanmore, Thermal Imaging

Our second season of thermal imaging is now underway in and around Swanmore.

Our second season of thermal imaging is now underway in and around Swanmore. With colder temperatures the conditions are just right for clear images that show just how much – or how little – heat is lost from our homes. Finding out where a house is allowing cold air in or expensive warm air out provides a chance to make changes that make homes cosier, help reduce fuel bills, save money and help cut carbon emissions. Many of these changes can be simple and cheap: Radiator reflectors and draft excluders are quick fixes, simply adjusting a hinge on a window to improve fit, or insulating your loft hatch all add up. If you have a Smart Meter (that’s working) you can monitor the difference you make. If bigger changes are needed some households qualify for government support to upgrade, if your home is in council tax band A-D or the property has an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating D-G you may qualify. More information on the Great British Insulation Scheme SWaCS volunteers have received training from iRed in using the camera. We provide you with a quick guide on how to survey your own home, but can offer help if needed. The camera that we have, the Flir One Edge Pro, pairs with a smartphone via Bluetooth so that you can save your photos onto your camera roll. SWaCS will provide a report on observations from the survey, but as we are not experts we cannot make recommendations. Book the...


- Published: 2024-08-26
- Modified: 2024-09-06
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/follow-us-on-facebook
- Categories: Front page news

Our new Facebook page is now live. Follow us to get all of the latest news.

Our new Facebook page is now live. Follow us to get all of the latest news. Follow us on Facebook


- Published: 2024-08-24
- Modified: 2025-03-05
- URL: https://hampshirefare.co.uk/directory-search/
- Categories: Food, Reference
- Tags: Food

Explore local food and drink with this guide from Hampshire Fare.

Explore local food and drink with this guide from Hampshire Fare.


- Published: 2024-08-24
- Modified: 2025-02-20
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/switch-to-an-electric-vehicle
- Categories: Front page news, Transport
- Tags: Electric Vehicles (EV)

Moving to an all electric vehicle can be daunting, but there's never been a better time to make the switch.

After years of driving a petrol car, the move to an electric vehicle (EV) can be very daunting. Range anxiety, cost and slow top-ups are often cited as reasons not to make the move and up until a few years ago these were probably still very valid points. But things are changing rapidly. At the end of 2016, just 0. 4% of all new vehicles registered were electric. By 2023 this had risen to 23. 9% of new car registrations. Easy faster charging Charging at home is ultra convenient, but a couple of years ago, finding a charging point away from home could be a challenge. However, there are now four times more public charging stations in the UK than petrol stations (34,570 vs. 8,500) with 20,000 new chargers being added each year . This represents a year on year increase of 46%. Charging times are getting faster too. A 240 mile journey in an EV might mean just a 5 minute top-up en route. That's less time than a quick loo stop takes (and yes we have timed this! ) This is possible because faster chargers becoming available. Most of the 20,000 chargers installed last year were 'rapid' chargers or above. Rapid charger are rated at 50Kw, while ultra rapid chargers deliver 100Kw or more. The fastest chargers are now capable of adding 175 miles of range in 15 minutes while you go and enjoy a coffee. Faster charging and more chargers means it's much less likely you will...


- Published: 2024-08-22
- Modified: 2025-02-20
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/get-your-bike-security-marked-for-free
- Categories: Bike Repair
- Tags: Bishops Waltham, Transport, Winchester, Winchester City Council

Winchester City Council have joined forces with Winchester Police to host a free Bike Register event in Bishop’s Waltham.

Bikes are a great form of sustainable transport, now you can get your bike security marked for FREE! Winchester City Council have joined forces with Winchester Police to host a Bike Register event in Bishop’s Waltham. Bring your bike to Jubilee Hall, Shore Lane, Bishops Waltham, on Thursday 5 September between 3pm and 6pm. We’ll security mark it so you can register your details on the national police database. It could mean you are reunited with your bike if it’s stolen.  It’s also a great deterrent to thieves. Find out more about registering your bike at The National Cycle Database | BikeRegister. Photo credit: Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary website


- Published: 2024-08-20
- Modified: 2024-09-02
- URL: https://www.hampshirechronicle.co.uk/news/24503608.boost-green-energy-hampshire-1-5m-funding/
- Categories: Community Energy, External news
- Tags: Community Energy

Lower energy bills could be enjoyed by more people in the future as communities are empowered to lead climate change initiatives.

Lower energy bills could be enjoyed by more people in the future as communities are empowered to lead climate change initiatives.


- Published: 2024-08-20
- Modified: 2025-02-20
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/installation-of-solar-panels-at-the-jubilee-hall
- Categories: External news
- Tags: Bishops Waltham, Carbon Footprint, Climate Emergency, Community Energy, Solar

The installation of solar panels at the Jubilee Hall has commenced.

The installation of solar panels at the Jubilee Hall in Bishops Waltham has commenced. The Parish Council have been working on this project to reduce the building's running costs whilst also helping to respond to the climate emergency and reduce its carbon footprint. Photo credit: Bishop's Waltham Parish Council


- Published: 2024-08-14
- Modified: 2025-02-20
- URL: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1441970603180306/
- Categories: local groups, Local groups and organisations
- Tags: Climate Groups, Shedfield

Shedfield Greening is a local Greening Campaign group that aims to tackles climate change at a community level where everyone is included and everyone has a role to play.

Shedfield has been chosen as one of 20 communities in Hampshire to receive funded support from experts to make a difference in our community. The initial meeting took place on the 3rd July at the Shedfield Pavilion. Please contact Shedfield Parish Council for more information.


- Published: 2024-08-14
- Modified: 2025-12-29
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/community-energy
- Categories: Project
- Tags: Business, Carbon Footprint, Community Energy, Projects, Renewable Energy, Workshop

SWaCS are exploring the potential for a Community Energy (CE) project in our area and we need your input.

Join Our Future Energy Landscapes Workshop! This summer, SWaCS has been exploring the potential for a Community Energy (CE) project in our area. Community Energy projects empower communities by giving them control over how their energy is generated, bringing benefits to local businesses, organisations, and residents. We’ve been in discussions with Energise South Downs, one of the 400 non-profit organisations across the UK, to organise a workshop called Future Energy Landscapes. This workshop will be held in the coming months and will focus on gathering residents’ ideas and opinions on creating a local renewable energy project. If developing a project within our area isn’t feasible, we’ll also consider ways to join an existing scheme nearby. These projects are usually locally owned, non-profit organisations that produce renewable energy and help reduce carbon emissions. We Need Your Input! We are not experts, so we’d greatly appreciate your thoughts and ideas. If you’re interested in taking part in the Future Energy Landscapes workshop, please contact us. More on this project


- Published: 2024-08-14
- Modified: 2025-03-05
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/shopping-greener
- Categories: Food, Front page news, Local groups and organisations
- Tags: Business, Food, Organic

Updated! We asked our local shops if they had any good green practices they could share and this is what they told us.

We asked our local shops and suppliers if they had any good green practices they could share and this is what they told us. Anna's Kitchen (Shedfield) Nothing in place currently. Chesapeake Nothing in place currently. Co-op (Wickham) 'Local flavours' Local sourcing as a 'separate entity within the business'.  Some fruit and veg sold loose Costa Reward customers who bring their own cup via their loyalty scheme Use recyclable cups Use the Good to Go app Hampshire Veg Box Locally grown at Rushmere Farm Hambledon which reduces food miles. Seasonal produce using little or no packaging. Grown using organic and regenerative farming methods Home delivery in an electric van. Hoxton Bakehouse Give 25p off to customers bringing their own cup Use recyclable cups Use the Good to Go app for unsold produce Hylands Selling mainly loose produce which can go in paper or customer’s own bag They have stopped providing milk bottle refills as it wasn’t economically or ecologically viable as unsold milk was too often being thrown away Josie's Give 20p reduction for customers who bring their own cup, they also sell re-usable cups Pass on coffee grounds regularly to customers who ask All take away cups are recyclable and no single use plastic McCarthys About 50% of fruit and veg sold loose with paper bags available Eggs sold from trays so customers can reuse boxes Meon Valley Tea Room (Bay Tree Walk) Nothing in place currently. Nature's Nook Refillery (Wickham) Offers a wide range of refillable products, to help cut down on single-use plastics. Refill...


- Published: 2024-07-29
- Modified: 2026-06-24
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/what-can-i-put-in-my-recycling-bin
- Categories: Front page news, Reuse, repair, recycle
- Tags: Food, Recycling, Winchester, Winchester City Council

It’s not always clear what you can put in your recycling bin and finding the information online isn’t always easy. For instance, can you leave the lids on your glass jars?

It's not always clear what you can put in your recycling bin and finding the information online isn't always easy. For instance, can you leave the lids on your glass jars and plastic milk bottles? It took us far too long to find the definitive answer to this simple question online. Some of the information available online was conflicting because it was out of date. Searching for the lids answer returned this handy Winchester waste campaign information poster. According to the poster, you need to removed your milk bottle plastic lids, but this is no longer the case according to Winchester City council recycling bin collection information. We were unable to find any similar list for kerb side glass recycling, so this would appear to still be the latest guidance. Can I put plastic bottle caps in the green recycling bin? Food and drink bottles e. g. milk and drink bottles, shampoo bottles and cleaning product bottles. Lids and labels can be left on. Please empty any liquid content and squash the bottle before replacing the lid. Source: Winchester City council recycling bin collection information Can I leave the lids on when I recycle my glass jars? No, the lids, corks and tops should be removed. Source: Winchester waste campaign information poster Can I put window panes in the glass recycling? No, windows panes should not be put in the box. Source: Winchester waste campaign information poster Can I put glass vases in the glass recycling? No, glass vases should...


- Published: 2024-07-29
- Modified: 2024-09-02
- URL: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/ce4q19jgexvo
- Categories: External news
- Tags: CO2 Capture

Exxon Mobil is seeking approval for the Solent CO2 Pipeline Project, which would see a pipe running from its Fawley oil refinery near Southampton to a CO2 storage site under the English Channel.

Exxon Mobil is seeking approval for the Solent CO2 Pipeline Project, which would see a pipe running from its Fawley oil refinery near Southampton to a CO2 storage site under the English Channel.


- Published: 2024-05-06
- Modified: 2025-02-20
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/the-sustainability-centre
- Categories: Local groups and organisations
- Tags: Climate Groups, The Sustainability Centre

The Sustainability Centre aims to educate, enable and inspire people from all walks of life to make positive changes to the way they live and work.

The Sustainability Centre is situated in heart of the South Downs and now occupies the land that was once HMS Mercury. The centre aims to educate, enable and inspire people from all walks of life to make positive changes to the way they live and work. The Centre is spread across 55 acres of woodland and natural chalk downland and is owned by a charity, the Earthworks Trust, which was established in 1995. Visit the Sustainability Centre website. Photo credit: The Sustainability Centre


- Published: 2024-04-06
- Modified: 2025-02-20
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/meon-valley-repair-cafe
- Categories: Bike Repair, Reuse, repair, recycle
- Tags: Repair

Volunteer repair experts available to help repair every day broken items free of charge. Anything that is broken is welcome.

What do you do with a broken toaster? Or with a bike when the wheel runs out of true? Or with a sweater full of moth holes? Various volunteer repair experts will be available to help make all possible repairs free of charge. Tools and materials will also be on hand. People visiting the Repair Café will bring along their broken items from home. Toasters, lamps, hair dryers, clothes, bikes, toys, crockery... anything that is broken is welcome and can more than likely be repaired. The Repair Café specialists almost always have the know-how. The Repair Cafe is open the first Saturday of every month from 10am-noon at Waltham Chase Methodist Church. https://meonvalleyrepaircafe. co. uk See also SWaCS team up with qualified cycle mechanics RideRide at the Meon Valley Repair Cafe Photo credit: Meon Valley Repair Cafe website


- Published: 2024-04-06
- Modified: 2025-02-20
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/bike-dr-at-the-meon-valley-repair-cafe
- Categories: Bike Repair, Front page news
- Tags: Cycling, Repair, Transport, Waltham Chase

Fifteen bikes were checked for free by RideRide Cycle Workshop on the first Saturday in April at the Meon Valley Repair Cafe.

From buckled wheels to busted brake cables the bike doctor worked full tilt to adjust, mend, tighten and tweak all manner of cycles in need of a bit of TLC. Fifteen bikes were checked and / or repaired for free by RideRide Cycle Workshop from Southampton on the first Saturday in April at the Meon Valley Repair Cafe’s monthly opening. The free event was organised by SWaCS as part of a focus on transport. Our local villages have above the national average carbon footprints, and the second biggest producer of domestic greenhouse gases per person is transport. So it was a chance to dust off some two-wheeled transport, bring it into the light of day and ensure it was roadworthy. A couple of people dropped by to find out about the best way to recycle bikes and a couple more made suggestions to be added to SWaCS’ local recycling information. For those who had a while to wait the home made cakes, bacon butties and drinks from MVR Café went down a treat. Our thanks to MVRC for hosting us, to Swanmore Parish Council for their support and to Tim from RideRide for working hard to ensure safe cycles out and about. We hope to organise similar events in the future.


- Published: 2024-04-06
- Modified: 2026-02-03
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/computer-recycling
- Categories: Reuse, repair, recycle
- Tags: Recycling

Hampshire Computer Recycling offer FREE collections throughout the UK with free next day collections in Hampshire.

Wiping your data The companies listed on this page will wipe your data from the device for you, but it is best to do this yourself before parting with your IT equipment. The UK National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) provide guidance on how to securely erase a device. For other devices, try a Google search such e. g. "How do I factory reset my XBOX? ". Jamie's computers Jamie's computers is based in Southampton and was set up by The Society of St. James in 2002, Jamie’s professionally and ethically recycle a wide range of IT and computer equipment. The Society of St. James helps vulnerable people in Hampshire experiencing homelessness, problems with alcohol and substance use and other complex needs to change their lives. 70% of donated equipment is reused, recycled and upcycled to Microsoft standards. The rest is broken down into components and recycled, meaning that 0% of material goes to landfill. A free collection can be arranged on their website. CPR Computer and IT equipment recycling CPR Computer and IT equipment recycling offer FREE collections throughout the UK with free next day collections in Hampshire. Next Day collections in the Hampshire area is free for all computer equipment including telephones, printers, monitors and the computers themselves. They will also take old cables and power adapters too. Following initial testing all equipment collected is graded, cleaned and fully refurbished prior to being sold back for home or business use. CPR donate profits from retail sales to UK Charity.


- Published: 2024-04-05
- Modified: 2025-02-24
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/what-can-i-do-with-an-outgrown-unwanted-or-damaged-cycle
- Categories: Bike Repair, Front page news, Reuse, repair, recycle
- Tags: Cycling, Recycling, Reuse

If you need to make space and are happy not to make money from an unwanted cycle there are a number of local charities will take cycles off your hands and put them to good use.

For bikes in decent condition you can sell online. If you need to make space and are happy not to make money from an unwanted cycle, Freecycle is an option or otherwise a number of local charities will take cycles off your hands and put them to good use. Local-ish to us are: https://www. recyclebikehub. com A volunteer group that repairs, recycles and resells bikes that are in reasonable condition - their workshop is in Winchester. They will take children’s cycles as these have a high turn-over. All the money made goes to the local children’s hospice Naomi House and Jack’s Place. Bikes not fit for re-sale will be used for parts and waste metal is sold for scrap. https://www. halfords. com/bikes/services-advice/re-cycle. html Halford’s work with Re-cycle. org to send cycles to Africa. Local drop-off points are Halford’s stores at Eastleigh, Waterlooville and Winchester. http://www. newforestbikeproject. org/ A not-for-profit community and social enterprise based in New Milton. They will take old bikes and cycling paraphernalia to refurbish and sell on / give to people who have been referred. The Sue Ryder charity will accept cycles for their cycle workshop, you can drop off at the Fratton Park centre in Portsmouth - they ask that you ring them first: 02392 294501 https://www. sueryder. org/shop-with-us/find-a-shop/fratton-park-furniture-portsmouth Salvation Army Retail shops in Portswood, Southampton or Eastleigh will also take cycles if they are suitable for re-sale. If a bike is beyond salvageable Hampshire County Council household recycling centres will take them. Old and damaged...


- Published: 2024-03-25
- Modified: 2025-02-20
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/loop-energy-smart-meter-app
- Categories: Energy production, Home Heating
- Tags: Apps, Energy

The free Loop Energy Smart Meter App is a great way to understand your electricity consumption and reduce bills.

The free Loop Energy Smart Meter App is a great way to understand your electricity consumption and reduce bills. It connects to your smart electricity meter and can help save money by reducing your 'phantom load' and also help predict how much you might save with solar panels and/or a house battery. For some SWaCS members, this has proved a very useful first step on helping understand how to reduce home energy use. . Loop Energy - Smart Meter App Photo credit: loop energy


- Published: 2024-03-22
- Modified: 2025-02-20
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/home-solar-panels
- Categories: Energy production
- Tags: Climate Emergency, Homes, Solar

Recent installations on two houses owned by SWaCS members currently indicate that the panels should pay for themselves in around 5-6 years.

A number of our members have had solar panels installed on their homes recently. The price of solar installation has fallen dramatically over the last 20 years. Costs vary, but an average house with a south facing roof might expect to pay around £8,000 to install 14 solar panels. This includes the panels, invertor, scaffolding and installation. The panels and invertors should last around 25 years (older invertors needed replacing after 10 years). Recent installations on two houses owned by SWaCS members currently indicate that the panels should pay for themselves in around 5-6 years. The Energy Saving Trust offer a free solar panel calculator that is a good starting point to work out if solar panels are right for you. Solar Panel Calculator Energy Saving Trust is an independent organisation working to address the climate emergency. If you have any questions about home solar panels, we'd be happy to chat. Contact us about solar


- Published: 2024-03-20
- Modified: 2024-11-29
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/bike-dr-event-at-the-meon-valley-repair-cafe
- Categories: Project
- Tags: Cycling, Repair, Transport

As transport is the second biggest cause of carbon pollution in our villages, we are teaming up with the Meon Valley Repair Café to provide FREE cycle checks and minor repairs.

As transport is the second biggest cause of carbon pollution in our villages, we are teaming up with the Meon Valley Repair Café to provide FREE cycle checks and minor repairs. It’s to prompt a conversation around the way we travel, usually four wheels, and to focus on the benefits of two wheels for getting around. Joining us to do the checks are qualified cycle technicians RideRide from Southampton. We will also be looking at ways to recycle old, outgrown or unwanted bikes and there will be the opportunity to sign up for a guided cycle group to be led by a British Cycle guide. More on this project


- Published: 2024-03-19
- Modified: 2024-11-29
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/waltham-chase-litter-pick
- Categories: Front page news, Litter pick, Project
- Tags: Environment, Litter Picking, Waltham Chase

Our first 'rubbish walk' in February started at Waltham Chase Village Hall and ended in the same spot with a sizeable haul of rubbish.

Our first 'rubbish walk' in February started at Waltham Chase Village Hall and ended in the same spot with a sizeable haul of rubbish. Armed with bin bags, litter pickers and hi-vis tabards seven volunteers gathered a pile of rubbish, a fair amount of which was from outside the primary school. So why litter picking? All the litter we gather prevents waste clogging up the environment or degrading and causing harm. It’s a great way to meet up with others in the community and take part in a little gentle exercise while giving back to the village. We aim to do three or four sessions a year, any regular litter pickers in the village are very welcome to join us, as are newcomers. Our thanks to Shedfield Parish Council for providing equipment.


- Published: 2024-03-19
- Modified: 2024-11-29
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/thermal-imaging
- Categories: Project
- Tags: Carbon Footprint, Climate Emergency, Energy, Heating, Homes, Net Zero, Repair, Swanmore, Thermal Imaging, Winchester, Winchester City Council

Worried about winter energy bills? Take the first steps to lower costs with a free thermal imaging survey

Worried about winter energy bills? Take the first steps to lower costs with a free thermal imaging survey What is a thermal imaging camera? A thermal imaging camera produces a heat map of hot and cold spots and can be used to find where cold is leaking into, and heat is leaking out of, our homes. Why should I be interested? Discovering these areas can highlight where to upgrade or repair, leading to warmer homes, saving on heating bills and reducing our carbon footprint. Where Anyone who lives in the parish of Swanmore can arrange a free survey. When The camera works best when there is a 10C difference between outside and inside temperatures, so evenings in late autumn, winter and early spring are best. Why This is SWaCS first project, we are trained volunteers not experts but we all wanted to ‘do something’ and enjoy the journey. This follows the lead of Hampshire County Council and Winchester City Council, who both declared a climate emergency in 2019 and are working towards a ‘net zero’* county by 2030. The average UK carbon footprint per person is about 8. 5 tonnes of CO₂ a year and the loss of heat from homes is a major contributor. Global reduction of this footprint to about 2 tonnes per person per year by 2050 should keep a rise in world temperatures below 2C. How Swanmore Parish Council has bought a small thermal imaging camera that pairs with a smart phone and SWaCs are launching...


- Published: 2024-03-14
- Modified: 2024-09-02
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/join-us-for-a-free-cycle-check-up
- Categories: Bike Repair
- Tags: Cycling, Repair

join us for a FREE bike check-up and minor repairs with RideRide at the next Meon Valley Repair Café on April 6th from 10am-11:30am.

SWaCS will be focusing on two-wheeled transport in April. To kick things off join us for a FREE bike check-up and minor repairs with RideRide at the next Meon Valley Repair Café on April 6th from 10am-11:30am. You can book a place with the qualified cycle mechanics by contacting SWaCS at the email address below, or just turn up – although we cannot guarantee spaces on the day. Our thanks to Swanmore Parish Council for their help with the event. Why cycling? The majority of car journeys, 72% are under 5 miles, 25% under 1 mile and it is these short journeys that have the highest carbon footprint. If we are able to cycle it’s great for fitness and flexibility. So what are the barriers to cycling for us? Would cycling with a group appeal? Contact us if you would be interested in joining a gentle guided cycle group. An initial trial-run would be led by a British Cycling-trained guide and last for 40 minutes, contact us to register your interest. SWaCS has also been in touch with other cycle-related groups to look at what to do with bikes that are either no longer wanted or have reached the end of their life. At the not-for-profit Recycle Bike Hub in Winchester you can donate children’s bikes for salvage or repair and resale – all proceeds going to the children’s hospice in Winchester Naomi House and Jack’s Place. In their first two years they have saved 776 bikes from scrap, raising...


- Published: 2024-02-05
- Modified: 2024-09-02
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/20-thermal-image-surveys-completed
- Categories: Front page news, Thermal Survey
- Tags: Thermal Imaging

Over 20 local families carried out a survey over the winter.

A big thank you to everyone who borrowed the thermal imaging camera during the winter. Over 20 families carried out a survey and we will be following up over the next few months to find out what changes, if any, have been made as a result. The thermal image camera will be available again once the weather is cooler, towards the end of September or start of October, so do contact us to put your name down for next autumn/winter. Request a themal image survey


- Published: 2023-10-19
- Modified: 2024-09-28
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/identify-your-homes-heatlosses-and-cut-fuel-bills
- Categories: Front page news, Thermal Survey
- Tags: Climate Emergency, Heating, Thermal Imaging

SWaCS is offering on loan a thermal imaging camera to Swanmore residents to help them identify where their homes are losing heat. By pinpointing troublespots a few simple steps may be all that's needed to reduce fuel bills and cut down on greenhouse gases.

SWaCS is offering on loan a thermal imaging camera to Swanmore residents to help them identify where their homes are losing heat. By pinpointing troublespots a few simple steps may be all that's needed to reduce fuel bills and cut down on greenhouse gases. Thermal imagery can highlight the hot spots on a house where heat is escaping, such as around windows and eaves. SWaCS is an independent group of volunteers formed in October 2022 and covering the parishes of Swanmore and Shedfield. It aims to find projects to cut the carbon footprint in these villages following the lead of Hampshire County Council and Winchester City Council, who both declared a climate emergency in 2019 and are working towards a “net zero” county by 2030. SWaCS’ first project focuses on preventable heat loss from homes. The average UK carbon footprint per person is about 8. 5 tonnes of carbon dioxide a year and the loss of eat from homes is a major contributor. Global reduction of this footprint to about two tonnes per person per year by 2050 should keep a rise in world temperatures below 2°C. A thermal imaging camera produces a heat map of hot and cold spots and can be used to find where cold is leaking into and heat is leaking out of our homes. Discovering these areas can highlight where to upgrade or repair insulation, leading to warmer homes, thus saving on heating bills and reducing our carbon footprint. Swanmore Parish Council has bought a...




## Events

- Published: 2025-09-01
- Modified: 2025-09-03
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/swanmore-energy-efficient-open-home
- Event Categories: Front Page News

Join us for a tour of this family home to explore energy-saving solutions and discuss the pros and cons with the architect and residents.

Join us for a tour of this family home to explore energy-saving solutions and discuss the pros and cons with the architect and residents. Visit a 2010 home with net energy and heating costs at around £500 a year and monthly water bills of £10. Also hear about a local 4-bedroom detached house, built in 2001 with a gas boiler, which has been progressively upgraded and fitted with ‘green’ technology including solar panels and an air source heat pump. Could we achieve zero energy bills? Come and have a chat about our approach. We will cover: Air source heat pumps Solar PV with battery back-up (off-grid) Solar thermal for hot water A 'tea cosy' approach to insulation Mechanical ventilation with heat recovery Rain water harvesting Wood-burning stoves - are they the right approach? App-based monitoring of energy usage Optimising solar generation Electric vehicle charging Booking required. Reserve your timeslot now on EventBrite. Tours last approx 45 minutes. There is free parking in the village car park on Church Road, opposite St Barnabas Church. The open home event is less than 5 minutes walk from the car park. Book your ticket now


- Published: 2025-08-19
- Modified: 2025-08-19
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/chat-climate-2
- Tags: Events
- Event Categories: Chat Climate

Wondering whether renewable energy is for you? Or what you can do to help wildlife? Join us at Chat Climate.

Wondering whether renewable energy is for you? Or what you can do to help wildlife? If you’re interested in any aspect of caring for our environment join us at Chat Climate with the team from Sustainable Waltham Chase and Swanmore at The Hunters Inn pub on Tuesday, July 22nd at 7pm. Let us know what changes you’d like to make happen in your community and find out what’s already going on.


- Published: 2025-08-19
- Modified: 2025-08-19
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/meon-valley-repair-cafe-15
- Tags: Repair

Volunteer repair experts available to help repair every day broken items free of charge. Anything that is broken is welcome.

What do you do with a broken toaster? Or with a bike when the wheel runs out of true? Or with a sweater full of moth holes? Various volunteer repair experts will be available to help make all possible repairs free of charge. Tools and materials will also be on hand. People visiting the Repair Café will bring along their broken items from home. Toasters, lamps, hair dryers, clothes, bikes, toys, crockery... anything that is broken is welcome and can more than likely be repaired. The Repair Café specialists almost always have the know-how.


- Published: 2025-08-19
- Modified: 2025-08-19
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/meon-valley-repair-cafe-14
- Tags: Repair

Volunteer repair experts available to help repair every day broken items free of charge. Anything that is broken is welcome.

What do you do with a broken toaster? Or with a bike when the wheel runs out of true? Or with a sweater full of moth holes? Various volunteer repair experts will be available to help make all possible repairs free of charge. Tools and materials will also be on hand. People visiting the Repair Café will bring along their broken items from home. Toasters, lamps, hair dryers, clothes, bikes, toys, crockery... anything that is broken is welcome and can more than likely be repaired. The Repair Café specialists almost always have the know-how.


- Published: 2025-08-19
- Modified: 2025-08-19
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/meon-valley-repair-cafe-16
- Tags: Repair

Volunteer repair experts available to help repair every day broken items free of charge. Anything that is broken is welcome.

What do you do with a broken toaster? Or with a bike when the wheel runs out of true? Or with a sweater full of moth holes? Various volunteer repair experts will be available to help make all possible repairs free of charge. Tools and materials will also be on hand. People visiting the Repair Café will bring along their broken items from home. Toasters, lamps, hair dryers, clothes, bikes, toys, crockery... anything that is broken is welcome and can more than likely be repaired. The Repair Café specialists almost always have the know-how.


- Published: 2025-08-19
- Modified: 2025-08-19
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/meon-valley-repair-cafe-17
- Tags: Repair

Volunteer repair experts available to help repair every day broken items free of charge. Anything that is broken is welcome.

What do you do with a broken toaster? Or with a bike when the wheel runs out of true? Or with a sweater full of moth holes? Various volunteer repair experts will be available to help make all possible repairs free of charge. Tools and materials will also be on hand. People visiting the Repair Café will bring along their broken items from home. Toasters, lamps, hair dryers, clothes, bikes, toys, crockery... anything that is broken is welcome and can more than likely be repaired. The Repair Café specialists almost always have the know-how.


- Published: 2025-08-19
- Modified: 2025-08-19
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/meon-valley-repair-cafe-18
- Tags: Repair

Volunteer repair experts available to help repair every day broken items free of charge. Anything that is broken is welcome.

What do you do with a broken toaster? Or with a bike when the wheel runs out of true? Or with a sweater full of moth holes? Various volunteer repair experts will be available to help make all possible repairs free of charge. Tools and materials will also be on hand. People visiting the Repair Café will bring along their broken items from home. Toasters, lamps, hair dryers, clothes, bikes, toys, crockery... anything that is broken is welcome and can more than likely be repaired. The Repair Café specialists almost always have the know-how.


- Published: 2025-08-19
- Modified: 2025-08-19
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/meon-valley-repair-cafe-19
- Tags: Repair

Volunteer repair experts available to help repair every day broken items free of charge. Anything that is broken is welcome.

What do you do with a broken toaster? Or with a bike when the wheel runs out of true? Or with a sweater full of moth holes? Various volunteer repair experts will be available to help make all possible repairs free of charge. Tools and materials will also be on hand. People visiting the Repair Café will bring along their broken items from home. Toasters, lamps, hair dryers, clothes, bikes, toys, crockery... anything that is broken is welcome and can more than likely be repaired. The Repair Café specialists almost always have the know-how.


- Published: 2025-04-02
- Modified: 2025-04-02
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/film-screening-six-inches-of-soil
- Event Categories: Front Page News

Film Screening: Six inches of soil - The inspiring story of British farmers standing up against the industrial food system

The inspiring story of British farmers standing up against the industrial food system and transforming the way they produce food - to heal the soil, benefit our health and provide for local communities. Rated 8. 7/10 on IMDB


- Published: 2025-03-01
- Modified: 2025-03-01
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/chat-climate
- Tags: Events
- Event Categories: Front Page News

Wondering whether renewable energy is for you? Or what you can do to help wildlife? Join us at the Rising Sun for Chat Climate.

Wondering whether renewable energy is for you? Or what you can do to help wildlife? If you’re interested in any aspect of caring for our environment join us at Chat Climate with the team from Sustainable Waltham Chase and Swanmore at The Rising Sun pub on Wednesday, March 19th at 7pm. Let us know what changes you’d like to make happen in your community and find out what’s already going on.


- Published: 2025-02-05
- Modified: 2025-02-05
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/homes-retrofit-surgery
- Event Categories: Front Page News, Thermal Survey

Explore how to create a warmer home, reduce your energy bills and cut back on carbon emissions with a qualified and experienced panel of specialists.

Is your house a challenge to heat? Explore how to create a warmer home, reduce your energy bills and cut back on carbon emissions with a qualified and experienced panel of specialists. Timed appointments are free but need to be booked on Eventbrite... Book Now Homes Retrofit Advice Surgery


- Published: 2025-02-05
- Modified: 2025-02-20
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/rubbish-walk-2
- Tags: Litter Picking
- Event Categories: Front Page News

Come and join us for a ‘Rubbish Walk’ and litter-pick in Waltham Chase.

Come and join us for a ‘Rubbish Walk’ and litter-pick in Waltham Chase. A team of SwaCS volunteers will be meeting at the Village Hall car park on Saturday, February 15th at 9. 30 and we aim to finished by 11am. Clearing the waste off the paths not only keeps the place looking loved, but protects those creatures and plants that aren’t so fond of cigarette butts and plastic packets. Equipment is provided by Shedfield Parish Council.


- Published: 2025-01-19
- Modified: 2025-01-19
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/meon-valley-repair-cafe-9
- Tags: Repair

Volunteer repair experts available to help repair every day broken items free of charge. Anything that is broken is welcome.

What do you do with a broken toaster? Or with a bike when the wheel runs out of true? Or with a sweater full of moth holes? Various volunteer repair experts will be available to help make all possible repairs free of charge. Tools and materials will also be on hand. People visiting the Repair Café will bring along their broken items from home. Toasters, lamps, hair dryers, clothes, bikes, toys, crockery... anything that is broken is welcome and can more than likely be repaired. The Repair Café specialists almost always have the know-how.


- Published: 2025-01-19
- Modified: 2025-01-19
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/meon-valley-repair-cafe-10
- Tags: Repair

Volunteer repair experts available to help repair every day broken items free of charge. Anything that is broken is welcome.

What do you do with a broken toaster? Or with a bike when the wheel runs out of true? Or with a sweater full of moth holes? Various volunteer repair experts will be available to help make all possible repairs free of charge. Tools and materials will also be on hand. People visiting the Repair Café will bring along their broken items from home. Toasters, lamps, hair dryers, clothes, bikes, toys, crockery... anything that is broken is welcome and can more than likely be repaired. The Repair Café specialists almost always have the know-how.


- Published: 2025-01-19
- Modified: 2025-01-19
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/meon-valley-repair-cafe-11
- Tags: Repair

Volunteer repair experts available to help repair every day broken items free of charge. Anything that is broken is welcome.

What do you do with a broken toaster? Or with a bike when the wheel runs out of true? Or with a sweater full of moth holes? Various volunteer repair experts will be available to help make all possible repairs free of charge. Tools and materials will also be on hand. People visiting the Repair Café will bring along their broken items from home. Toasters, lamps, hair dryers, clothes, bikes, toys, crockery... anything that is broken is welcome and can more than likely be repaired. The Repair Café specialists almost always have the know-how.


- Published: 2025-01-19
- Modified: 2025-01-19
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/meon-valley-repair-cafe-12
- Tags: Repair

Volunteer repair experts available to help repair every day broken items free of charge. Anything that is broken is welcome.

What do you do with a broken toaster? Or with a bike when the wheel runs out of true? Or with a sweater full of moth holes? Various volunteer repair experts will be available to help make all possible repairs free of charge. Tools and materials will also be on hand. People visiting the Repair Café will bring along their broken items from home. Toasters, lamps, hair dryers, clothes, bikes, toys, crockery... anything that is broken is welcome and can more than likely be repaired. The Repair Café specialists almost always have the know-how.


- Published: 2025-01-19
- Modified: 2025-01-19
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/meon-valley-repair-cafe-13
- Tags: Repair

Volunteer repair experts available to help repair every day broken items free of charge. Anything that is broken is welcome.

What do you do with a broken toaster? Or with a bike when the wheel runs out of true? Or with a sweater full of moth holes? Various volunteer repair experts will be available to help make all possible repairs free of charge. Tools and materials will also be on hand. People visiting the Repair Café will bring along their broken items from home. Toasters, lamps, hair dryers, clothes, bikes, toys, crockery... anything that is broken is welcome and can more than likely be repaired. The Repair Café specialists almost always have the know-how.


- Published: 2025-01-19
- Modified: 2025-01-19
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/community-tree-planting
- Event Categories: Front Page News

Get your boots on and help reach the goal of planting one million trees in Hampshire by 2050.

Tree planting events are a fantastic way to get stuck in and contribute to your community's landscape. So get your boots on and help reach the goal of planting one million trees in Hampshire by 2050. Everyone is welcome! Children must be accompanied by an adult. There is no prior experience needed. Wear suitable clothes and if you have gloves and spades, please bring these.


- Published: 2024-11-07
- Modified: 2025-01-08
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/future-energy-landscapes-workshop
- Tags: Community Energy, Energy, Renewable Energy, Workshop
- Event Categories: Community Energy, Front Page News

How might Swanmore, Shedfield and Waltham Chase power its community using locally produced renewable energy?

A happy New Year! Our Future Energy Landscapes Workshop is just over 2 weeks away. We’d love you to join us, tickets are free and booked through the Eventbrite link on this page... https://esd. energy/events/future-energy-landscapes/ Here at SWaCS one of our team had a leaflet posted through his letterbox and those of his neighbours from two primary aged children worried about climate change and asking what the adults were doing about it. With this in mind and feeling a bit challenged, we’re extending an invitation to our local communities to join us in a conversation about community energy. What is it? What might it look like here? And, most importantly, how it could impact our carbon usage by switching from fossil fuels to renewables. All these questions and more will be answered at the Future Energy Landscapes workshop run for us by Energise South Downs, a non-profit that sets up community energy projects in this area.


- Published: 2024-10-28
- Modified: 2024-11-07
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/doing-business-sustainably
- Tags: Business, Environment, Wildlife
- Event Categories: Front Page News

Do you want to find out how to make your business more sustainable?

Do you want to find out how to make your business more sustainable? New Leaf Alresford are inviting local business owners and managers to explore what sustainability means for their business, at an event on Tuesday 12th of November. We will hear talks from Rachel of Honey Bee Happy beekeepers, Chris from small-scale sustainably farmed veg supplier Hampshire Veg Box, and Adam Holden from Britain’s oldest wine and spirits merchant Berry Bros & Rudd, who will tell us how they have made sustainability core to what they do. Keep an eye on this listing for information on an additional speaker to follow. The event will take place in the barn at The Flowerpots Inn in Cheriton, arrival from 6pm to start at 6. 30pm. If you would like to attend please reserve your free place here – capacity is limited. New Leaf Alresford's Green Living Hub New Leaf offers local information and guidance, encouraging our community to adopt the positive changes needed to tackle climate change, promote sustainability and protect our local environment and wildlife. Find out why it is time to turn over a New Leaf and what we can do in our day to day lives to help tackle climate change. We will show you how to get started, and you can use our assessment and checklists to help you on your journey. Discover the local resources available and find out what others within our community are doing to support sustainability. We all need to work together and...


- Published: 2024-10-27
- Modified: 2024-10-27
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/rubbish-walk
- Tags: Litter Picking, Waltham Chase
- Event Categories: Front Page News

Come and join us for an autumnal ‘Rubbish Walk’ and litter-pick in Waltham Chase.

Come and join us for an autumnal ‘Rubbish Walk’ and litter-pick in Waltham Chase. A team of SwaCS volunteers will be meeting at the Village Hall car park on Saturday, November 9th at 9. 30 and we aim to finished by 11am. Clearing the waste off the paths not only keeps the place looking loved, but protects those creatures and plants that aren’t so fond of cigarette butts and plastic packets. Equipment is provided by Shedfield Parish Council.


- Published: 2024-10-09
- Modified: 2024-11-29
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/save-our-tips-protest
- Tags: Cycling, Environment, Recycling
- Event Categories: Front Page News

The protest will take place outside the Bishop's Waltham tip on Claylands Road at midday Saturday 12th Oct.

Many residents are concerned about plans to shut tips across Hampshire. On Monday 14th October, Hampshire County Council will be making the decision about whether they close our local tips. We know that the combined effect of plans to close tips in Alresford, Bishop's Waltham and Fair Oak will be a disaster for our communities. This will force local people to make longer journeys, impacting the environment, and only lead to more fly-tipping and less recycling. The protest will take place outside the Bishop's Waltham tip on Claylands Road at midday Saturday 12th Oct. The protest is being organised by Jonathan Williams, City Councillor, Bishop's Waltham Image credit: Hampshire HWRC


- Published: 2024-08-31
- Modified: 2024-09-28
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/greening-bishops-waltham-launch-event
- Event Categories: Front Page News

Concerned about increases in food and fuel costs? Concerned that our water courses are polluted? Concerned what impact climate change will have on our lives? Concerned about the amount of plastic in our environment? Want to do something but not sure where to start? If you have answered yes to any of these questions, pop along to the Bishop's Waltham Greening Campaign Launch on Saturday 5th October to find out how you get make small changes that will make BIG differences. We will have lots of information stands, children's activities and refreshments. We look forward to seeing you.


- Published: 2024-08-26
- Modified: 2024-09-06
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/hambledon-greening-festival
- Event Categories: Front Page News

An eco street with green stalls, art exhibition, beer, tea and cake, ice cream and BBQ, family-friendly activities and live music.

Stallholders this year including biodiversity groups like Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, the National Trust and the Hampshire Bat group retrofit specialists such as the Sustainability Centre, WinACC and Buildpass local food producers like Hampshire Market Garden, Nature’s Nook refill shop and Toat’s Mylk. There will be a yoga demonstration, live music, short talks on soil and birds as well as achieving net zero, and many activities for children including face-painting, nature trails and wood whittling! Something for everyone... Photo credit: portsmouth. anglican. org


- Published: 2024-08-26
- Modified: 2024-11-11
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/winchester-green-open-homes
- Tags: Energy, Green Week, Heat Pumps, Homes, Solar, Winchester

During Winchester Green Week visit homes in the Winchester area that have had green upgrades, including solar panel and heat pumps.

During Winchester Green Week visit homes in the Winchester area that have had green upgrades, including solar panel and heat pumps. Find out how you can reduce your home’s energy use and carbon impact. Talk to the residents - find out their experience of having these energy saving measures installed. There are several homes to visit, each with half-hourly or one-hourly time slots, between 10am - 1pm.


- Published: 2024-08-26
- Modified: 2024-09-28
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/winchester-green-week
- Event Categories: Front Page News

A week of events for everyone, organised by local communities, environmental groups, educational institutions, faith groups, local authorities and businesses in the Winchester District. A sustainable future can be created by all of us growing greener together. View events


- Published: 2024-08-26
- Modified: 2024-11-29
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/thermal-imaging-surveys-open-for-booking
- Tags: Energy, Thermal Imaging
- Event Categories: Thermal Survey

Worried about winter energy bills? Take the first steps to lower costs with a free thermal imaging survey

Worried about winter energy bills? Take the first steps to lower costs with a free thermal imaging survey SWaCS will be taking bookings for thermal imaging surveys from the end of September. Learn more about SWaCS thermal imaging surveys.


- Published: 2024-08-22
- Modified: 2024-11-29
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/get-your-bike-security-marked-for-free
- Tags: Transport, Winchester, Winchester City Council
- Event Categories: Bike Repair, Front Page News

Winchester City Council have joined forces with Winchester Police to host a Bike Register event in Bishop’s Waltham.

Bikes are a great form of sustainable transport, now you can get your bike security marked for FREE! Winchester City Council have joined forces with Winchester Police to host a Bike Register event in Bishop’s Waltham. Bring your bike to Jubilee Hall, Shore Lane, Bishops Waltham, on Thursday 5 September between 3pm and 6pm. We’ll security mark it so you can register your details on the national police database. It could mean you are reunited with your bike if it’s stolen. It’s also a great deterrent to thieves. Find out more about registering your bike at The National Cycle Database | BikeRegister. Photo credit: Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary website


- Published: 2024-08-20
- Modified: 2024-08-20
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/meon-valley-repair-cafe-6

Volunteer repair experts available to help repair every day broken items free of charge. Anything that is broken is welcome.

What do you do with a broken toaster? Or with a bike when the wheel runs out of true? Or with a sweater full of moth holes? Various volunteer repair experts will be available to help make all possible repairs free of charge. Tools and materials will also be on hand. People visiting the Repair Café will bring along their broken items from home. Toasters, lamps, hair dryers, clothes, bikes, toys, crockery... anything that is broken is welcome and can more than likely be repaired. The Repair Café specialists almost always have the know-how.


- Published: 2024-08-20
- Modified: 2024-08-20
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/meon-valley-repair-cafe-7

Volunteer repair experts available to help repair every day broken items free of charge. Anything that is broken is welcome.

What do you do with a broken toaster? Or with a bike when the wheel runs out of true? Or with a sweater full of moth holes? Various volunteer repair experts will be available to help make all possible repairs free of charge. Tools and materials will also be on hand. People visiting the Repair Café will bring along their broken items from home. Toasters, lamps, hair dryers, clothes, bikes, toys, crockery... anything that is broken is welcome and can more than likely be repaired. The Repair Café specialists almost always have the know-how.


- Published: 2024-08-20
- Modified: 2024-09-02
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/meon-valley-repair-cafe-8
- Tags: Repair

Volunteer repair experts available to help repair every day broken items free of charge. Anything that is broken is welcome.

What do you do with a broken toaster? Or with a bike when the wheel runs out of true? Or with a sweater full of moth holes? Various volunteer repair experts will be available to help make all possible repairs free of charge. Tools and materials will also be on hand. People visiting the Repair Café will bring along their broken items from home. Toasters, lamps, hair dryers, clothes, bikes, toys, crockery... anything that is broken is welcome and can more than likely be repaired. The Repair Café specialists almost always have the know-how.


- Published: 2024-08-14
- Modified: 2024-09-25
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/climate-cafe
- Event Categories: Front Page News

Come and join SWaCS for an informal evening to talk about all things relating to climate change and what that means for our community.

Come and join SWaCS for an informal evening to talk about all things relating to climate change and what that means for our community. As part of Winchester Green Week we want to hear your views on home energy, transport, food, recycling and biodiversity over a cuppa.


- Published: 2024-08-14
- Modified: 2024-11-29
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/love-your-village-litter-pick
- Tags: Litter Picking, Waltham Chase
- Event Categories: Litter Pick

Join us for an amble, a chat and the chance to show Waltham Chase a little love while sprucing up the roads.

Join us for an amble, a chat and the chance to show Waltham Chase a little love while sprucing up the roads. Meet at the Waltham Chase Village hall car park and join us for a drink at The Black Dog afterwards. Equipment supplied by Shedfield Parish Council


- Published: 2024-05-07
- Modified: 2024-11-11
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/womens-bike-ride
- Tags: Carbon Footprint, Swanmore, Transport

This free event is organised by SWaCS and Lets Ride as part of a focus on sustainable transport. It will be an easy going route around Swanmore, Waltham Chase and Shirrell Heath.

Our local villages have above the national average carbon footprints, and the second biggest producer of domestic greenhouse gases per person is transport. This free event is organised by SWaCS and Lets Ride as part of a focus on sustainable transport. It will be an easy going route around Swanmore, Waltham Chase and Shirrell Heath. There are a limited number of spaces on this event, so please ensure you book in advance.


- Published: 2024-04-17
- Modified: 2024-11-29
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/rubbish-walk-litter-pick
- Tags: Litter Picking
- Event Categories: Litter Pick

Join us for an amble, a chat and the chance to show Waltham Chase a little love while sprucing up the roads.

Join us for an amble, a chat and the chance to show Waltham Chase a little love while sprucing up the roads.


- Published: 2024-04-06
- Modified: 2024-04-06
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/meon-valley-repair-cafe
- Event Categories: Bike Repair

Volunteer repair experts available to help repair every day broken items free of charge. Anything that is broken is welcome.

What do you do with a broken toaster? Or with a bike when the wheel runs out of true? Or with a sweater full of moth holes? Various volunteer repair experts will be available to help make all possible repairs free of charge. Tools and materials will also be on hand. People visiting the Repair Café will bring along their broken items from home. Toasters, lamps, hair dryers, clothes, bikes, toys, crockery... anything that is broken is welcome and can more than likely be repaired. The Repair Café specialists almost always have the know-how.


- Published: 2024-04-06
- Modified: 2024-04-06
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/meon-valley-repair-cafe-2

Volunteer repair experts available to help repair every day broken items free of charge. Anything that is broken is welcome.

What do you do with a broken toaster? Or with a bike when the wheel runs out of true? Or with a sweater full of moth holes? Various volunteer repair experts will be available to help make all possible repairs free of charge. Tools and materials will also be on hand. People visiting the Repair Café will bring along their broken items from home. Toasters, lamps, hair dryers, clothes, bikes, toys, crockery... anything that is broken is welcome and can more than likely be repaired. The Repair Café specialists almost always have the know-how.


- Published: 2024-04-06
- Modified: 2024-04-06
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/meon-valley-repair-cafe-3
- Event Categories: Bike Repair

Volunteer repair experts available to help repair every day broken items free of charge. Anything that is broken is welcome.

What do you do with a broken toaster? Or with a bike when the wheel runs out of true? Or with a sweater full of moth holes? Various volunteer repair experts will be available to help make all possible repairs free of charge. Tools and materials will also be on hand. People visiting the Repair Café will bring along their broken items from home. Toasters, lamps, hair dryers, clothes, bikes, toys, crockery... anything that is broken is welcome and can more than likely be repaired. The Repair Café specialists almost always have the know-how.


- Published: 2024-04-06
- Modified: 2024-04-06
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/meon-valley-repair-cafe-4

Volunteer repair experts available to help repair every day broken items free of charge. Anything that is broken is welcome.

What do you do with a broken toaster? Or with a bike when the wheel runs out of true? Or with a sweater full of moth holes? Various volunteer repair experts will be available to help make all possible repairs free of charge. Tools and materials will also be on hand. People visiting the Repair Café will bring along their broken items from home. Toasters, lamps, hair dryers, clothes, bikes, toys, crockery... anything that is broken is welcome and can more than likely be repaired. The Repair Café specialists almost always have the know-how.


- Published: 2024-04-06
- Modified: 2024-04-06
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/meon-valley-repair-cafe-5
- Event Categories: Bike Repair

Volunteer repair experts available to help repair every day broken items free of charge. Anything that is broken is welcome.

What do you do with a broken toaster? Or with a bike when the wheel runs out of true? Or with a sweater full of moth holes? Various volunteer repair experts will be available to help make all possible repairs free of charge. Tools and materials will also be on hand. People visiting the Repair Café will bring along their broken items from home. Toasters, lamps, hair dryers, clothes, bikes, toys, crockery... anything that is broken is welcome and can more than likely be repaired. The Repair Café specialists almost always have the know-how.


- Published: 2024-03-19
- Modified: 2024-03-19
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/repair-cycle-cafe

Join us for 2024 Bishop’s Waltham Eco Fair at Jubilee Hall in Bishop’s Waltham.

Join us for 2024 Bishop’s Waltham Eco Fair at Jubilee Hall in Bishop’s Waltham. Pop down to find out how you can make small changes to live more sustainably. There will be plenty on offer, from advice stands, to talks and activities for the kids. Plus, Roots Street Food will be joining us with a selection of mouth-watering food to keep you sustained throughout the event.


- Published: 2024-03-19
- Modified: 2024-04-06
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/cycle-repair-cafe
- Event Categories: Bike Repair

As transport is the second biggest cause of carbon pollution in our villages, we are teaming up with the Meon Valley Repair Café on Saturday, April 6th to provide FREE cycle checks and minor repairs.

As transport is the second biggest cause of carbon pollution in our villages, we are teaming up with the Meon Valley Repair Café on Saturday, April 6th to provide FREE cycle checks and minor repairs. It’s to prompt a conversation around the way we travel, usually four wheels, and to focus on the benefits of two wheels for getting around. Joining us to do the checks are qualified cycle technicians RideRide from Southampton. We will also be looking at ways to recycle old, outgrown or unwanted bikes and there will be the opportunity to sign up for a guided cycle group to be led by a British Cycling guide. Refreshments will be available too. photo credit: Meon Valley Repair Cafe


- Published: 2024-03-19
- Modified: 2024-03-26
- URL: https://swacs.co.uk/event/waltham-chase-litter-pick
- Event Categories: Litter Pick

Our first ‘Rubbish Walk’ in February 2024 starts and ends at Waltham Chase Village Hall. Bin bags, litter pickers and hi-vis tabards will be provided. So why litter picking? All the litter we gather prevents waste clogging up the environment or degrading and causing harm. It’s a great way to meet up with others in the community and take part in a little gentle exercise while giving back to the village. We aim to do three or four sessions a year, any regular litter pickers in the village are very welcome to join us, as are newcomers. Contact us to get notified of the next event.