As 2024 comes to a close, we take a moment to reflect on a year of progress, challenges and incredible community-driven achievements. Transition Bath has continued to champion sustainability, foster connections and drive meaningful change. This is a look back at the highlights of 2024, showcasing the events, initiatives and milestones that defined our year.
Sustainability Initiatives and Events
Sustainability Shorts Series
Our “Sustainability Shorts” series returned this year with four sessions, in January, March, June and October, with each one featuring short, impactful talks by local experts and enthusiasts. Topics ranged from wild foraging to ecological psychology, wildlife gardening and eco-anxiety, offering attendees inspiration and actionable ideas for a sustainable future. These events were widely praised for their engaging and inclusive format, sparking meaningful conversations within our community.
Green Screen Film Series
The Green Screen film series at The Little Theatre Cinema remained a cornerstone of our community outreach. This year’s screenings tackled pressing environmental issues through documentaries and panel discussions. A standout event was Rave on for the Avon, celebrating grassroots activism to protect the River Avon. Films exploring regenerative agriculture, sustainable energy and the ethics of intensive farming also sparked thought-provoking conversations and greater awareness.
Nut Foraging at Smallcombe Nuttery
In the transition from summer to autumn, we held a nut foraging evening at Smallcombe. This hands-on event encouraged participants to connect with local food sources and deepen their relationship with nature. It was a relaxed and enjoyable evening, showcasing the benefits of foraging and sustainable living.
Avon River Clean-up
In collaboration with Bath Outdoors, we organised a litter cleanup along a section of the Avon River. This initiative emphasized environmental stewardship and brought community members together to care for one of Bath’s most iconic natural landmarks.
Hedge-laying Workshops
We held two hedge-laying workshops in November that combined traditional land management skills with biodiversity promotion. Participants on the course learned to create hedgerows that support local ecosystems while gaining a deeper appreciation for heritage practices.
Policy Advocacy and Consultations
Active Travel Masterplan Response
We submitted detailed feedback on the Active Travel Masterplan, emphasising the importance of sustainable transport networks and advocating for a community-centric approach to addressing the climate crisis.
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Bath Local Plan Options Consultation
As part of the Bath Local Plan Options consultation, we championed higher sustainability standards for new developments, retrofitting existing buildings and prioritizing on-campus student accommodation to reduce transport emissions.
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Visit to MP Advocating Policy Changes
We had a meeting with local MP Wera Hobhouse, calling for essential policy changes to support building decarbonisation. We highlighted the urgency of action needed to meet the UK’s 2050 climate targets and offered collaborative solutions.
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Community Engagement
Election Hustings
In June, ahead of the General Election, we hosted an election hustings at Widcombe Social Club. This event brought community members and political candidates together to discuss key sustainability issues. Attendees had the opportunity to engage directly with candidates, making their voices heard.
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Monthly All Transition Meetings
Throughout the year, we hosted regular All Transition meetings at the Ring O’ Bells in Widcombe. These gatherings provided a platform for discussing projects, sharing ideas and inspiring collaboration among our volunteers.
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Fair Participation
We attended the Climate Hub Springtime Assembly in March, held at the Assembly Rooms, where Green organisations gathered together to share information and ideas about positive action for a sustainable future, with activities including a talk on the importance of soil, another around greenwash, as well as e-bike demonstrations. As part of Bath College’s Sustainability Week in May, we participated in the Sustainability Fair, engaging with students and staff to promote eco-friendly habits. This event underscored the importance of collaboration across generations to drive positive change.
Christmas and Looking Ahead to 2025
To close the year, we launched our Eco-Friendly Advent Calendar. Read more here. This initiative provided daily tips for reducing waste, saving energy and building meaningful traditions during the festive season. As we move towards 2025, we carry forward the lessons and successes of 2024. Transition Bath remains dedicated to working towards a greener, more sustainable city and we’re grateful for the unwavering support of our volunteers and community partners.
Let’s continue to work together to make Bath a beacon of sustainability. Here’s to an impactful and inspiring year ahead!