Cornwall’s first eco-hub will opened in Truro on Saturday at 36a St Austell Street.  

The Mid-Cornwall Climate and Eco Hub is one of a growing number of climate emergency centres (CECs) being established across the country, in a bid to help people make life changes that reduce their carbon impact, save money and contribute to restoring and protecting the natural environment.   

The centre fills the space formerly home to a tattoo parlour and Carleys whole foods store, and was set up by friends Marcelle Coburn, Jackie Dash, Alex Glynne, Sarah Pethybridge and Jackie Walkden. A new work by Falmouth illustrator and mural artist Holly Astle has been created outside. 

It will provide a physical base to link the Mid-Cornwall community with environmental, sustainability and climate change-related groups, as well as the county, town and parish councils and green businesses.  

“We know we all need to act together to tackle the impacts of runaway climate change,” says Jackie.  

“Many towns and parishes across Cornwall have declared climate emergencies, with Cornwall Council setting a target of net zero carbon by 2030.  

“We are also witnessing a huge loss of biodiversity and our cherished natural environment is threatened at every turn.  

“The aim of the Hub is to inform people about the climate and nature emergencies, and what they can do themselves. It will also provide a place where individuals and groups can meet, make plans, exchange ideas and hold events.  

“Meeting our goals on carbon reduction and biodiversity can only be achieved if everyone, including individuals and small businesses, play their part. The Climate and Eco Hub will help us all to achieve this.’ 

The Hub will initially be open between 1pm and 5pm on Tuesdays and from 10am to 2pm on Saturdays. 

As well as providing a library and displays about the climate and nature crises, with particular focus on the impact in Cornwall, it will offer advice on areas such as insulation and energy reduction, existing and new community energy projects, protecting and restoring nature and depleted habitats, local community farming and food production.  

The Hub’s team are currently devising an autumn/winter programme of events, which will include film screenings, workshops and regular climate cafés.  

The grand opening of the Hub will take place at 10am, followed by a presentation by members at 11am, and Manda Brookman, director of Permanently Brilliant, speaking about the energy crisis and health at noon.  

Charlotte Barry will present short film Hungry for Change at 1pm, and John Carley from Chacewater Community Energy Group will be speak about green energy for businesses and homes at 2pm.  

There will be opportunities throughout the day to ask questions and chat with the Hub team, members of the wider environmental community and local councillors. The day will end with an informal mix-and-mingle time between 3pm and 4pm.  

Mayor of Truro Cllr Carol Swain will open the Hub. “Truro City Council declared a Climate Emergency in 2019,” she said.  

“Earlier this year, we appointed a Zero Carbon Officer to help us work with partners and local communities to develop effective and practical actions to respond to the climate and ecological emergencies we are all facing. 

“By providing a place where anyone can come to learn about the changes we face and the actions we can take, both as individuals and collectively, this new Hub will play a vital role in helping us to protect the future of our planet.”  

There will be cake and light refreshments available throughout the day. For further information, email [email protected]