Waste Busters - Buckinghamshire

Working in partnership with Buckinghamshire Council, the new programme is looking for volunteers to spread the message at events and deliver talks and workshops to schools and community groups.

Environmentalist and nutritionist Viv Stein, a long-standing member of Garden Organic, who has taken on the role of coordinator for the project says: “I grew up in a family who always composted, and my mother dug up part of the lawn in our garden to grow vegetables - so it’s second nature to me!

“I enjoy upcycling textiles and making jams and jellies from my garden produce. So, I was really keen to get involved in a project to combat food waste, and recruit and inspire volunteers in the county where I live.”

Volunteers do not need prior experience of waste or public engagement and only need to commit to a minimum of 30 hours of volunteering over the year. They can also be reimbursed for any travel costs.

Most of the volunteer activity will be engaging with the public at events across Buckinghamshire (e.g. countryside shows, garden/flower festivals, sustainability events and fun days), as well as delivering talks and workshops to schools and community groups. The volunteer can decide which of these events they wish to undertake, as well as finding their own local events or projects.

Dedicated coordinator Viv Stein - a former coordinator for Buckinghamshire Food Partnership and now Garden Organic staff member - will recruit, train, and keep in contact with all the volunteers, supporting them to carry out their role. Volunteers will be provided with free training on recycling, food waste reduction and composting, but will also be made aware of other sustainable waste schemes like repair cafes.

For those interested in joining this impactful campaign, contact vstein@gardenorganic.org.uk.