SUSTAINABLE Bungay, the group formed after the Climate Change Conference held at Emmanuel Church last year to see what could be done to reduce Bungay's carbon footprint, has qualified to become a member of the Transition Town network.

SUSTAINABLE Bungay, the group formed after the Climate Change Conference held at Emmanuel Church last year to see what could be done to reduce Bungay's carbon footprint, has qualified to become a member of the Transition Town network.

The Transition Network has a mission to inspire and encourage communities as they address the twin challenges of climate change and depleting oil supplies (Peak Oil).

The Transition Town concept was started in Totnes in Devon and now Totnes has 10 groups and 20 projects on the go, working towards an Energy Descent Action Plan. Projects there include building compost loos for the allotments, promoting local food produce and independent retailing, a massive nut tree planting scheme, bulk buying of solar thermal kits for hot water for homes and even a local currency - the Totnes Pound, to encourage local shopping.

There are now nearly 50 Transition Towns - Bungay is the first in the region, and Norwich has already qualified.

Whilst Bungay may not go as far as having its own currency Transition Town status gives access to more ideas and support, training and resources and will help Bungay in its own transition to a less carbon-dependent future.

Sustainable Bungay has already started on its own power-down projects: the information films screened last month at the Fisher Theatre in the town are now available to hire through the Little Green Wholefood Shop in Earsham Street and Bungay will be participating in the national Car-Free Day on Monday, September 22. Also planned is a seed-swap event in November in combination with the Bungay Horticultural Society.

Sustainable Bungay would like to see many more organisations in Bungay creating their own carbon and energy reducing projects and are very willing to provide help and guidance.