World Penguin Day: Why These Beautiful, Brilliant Birds Need Our Help

Every year on 25 April, World Penguin Day gives us the perfect excuse to celebrate one of nature’s most charming and recognisable creatures. 

Many Penguins may look like they are dressed for a formal dinner, but behind the waddles and adorable looks lies a serious environmental story.

For That’s Green, World Penguin Day is not just about cute photos and novelty socks featuring emperor penguins. 

It is about understanding why these remarkable birds matter and why protecting them matters even more.

Penguins are some of the most specialised birds on Earth. Found mainly in the Southern Hemisphere, they have evolved to thrive in some of the harshest environments imaginable, from the icy extremes of Antarctica to the rocky coasts of South Africa, South America, Australia, and New Zealand.

Species such as the Emperor Penguin and the Adélie Penguin depend heavily on stable sea ice for breeding and feeding. Others, like the African Penguin, face pressure from warming oceans, overfishing, and habitat destruction.

Climate change is one of the biggest threats penguins face. Rising global temperatures are melting Antarctic ice, disrupting breeding colonies, and altering the delicate marine food chains penguins rely on. If krill populations decline because of warming seas and changing ice patterns, entire penguin colonies can struggle to survive.

Plastic pollution is another major issue. Marine debris can entangle penguins or be mistaken for food. Oil spills also remain a serious risk, especially for coastal species. Even tourism, when poorly managed, can disturb nesting sites and fragile habitats.

The World Wildlife Fund and groups such as BirdLife International continue to work on penguin conservation, habitat protection, and marine preservation. But conservation cannot rely on charities alone.

Small actions matter.

Choosing sustainable seafood helps protect marine ecosystems. Reducing plastic use keeps oceans cleaner. Supporting reputable wildlife charities helps fund rescue and conservation work. Even simply learning more and raising awareness can make a difference.

World Penguin Day also reminds us that wildlife conservation is often connected to much bigger global choices. Cleaner energy, lower emissions, and stronger protection for our oceans all help species far beyond our own back gardens.

Penguins may live thousands of miles away from most of us in the UK, but their future is tied to the same planet we all share.

So yes, enjoy the penguin documentaries, the penguin memes, and perhaps even the penguin-themed mug. But also take a moment to think about what these extraordinary birds are telling us.

When penguins struggle, it is often a warning that the wider planet is struggling too.

And that is something we should all be paying attention to.

https://support.wwf.org.uk/adopt-a-penguin

#WorldPenguinDay 

Why the Tesla, Inc. Powerwall Is Changing the Way We Think About Home Energy

For years, solar panels have been seen as the poster child of greener living.

But there has always been one obvious problem: what happens when the sun goes down?

That's where the Tesla, Inc. Powerwall steps in.

It's not a futuristic gadget for tech enthusiasts with too much disposable income. It's a practical home battery designed to store electricity generated by solar panels, or even cheaper off-peak electricity from the grid,. so you can use it later when you actually need it.

In simple terms, it helps your home become smarter, greener and a lot less dependent on the grid.

Tesla describes Powerwall as a compact home battery that stores energy generated by solar or from the grid, allowing homeowners to use that power day and night, including during outages. It also offers customisable power modes for backup protection and electricity bill savings.

That matters more than ever in the UK, where energy prices remain unpredictable and more households are looking for ways to cut long-term costs rather than simply complain about the latest bill over a cup of tea.

Powerwall can also provide backup during power cuts. Unlike noisy generators that sound like someone has started a lawnmower indoors, it switches automatically to stored energy when the grid goes down. 

Tesla says severe weather preparation features can even automatically charge the battery when outages are forecast.

The current system offers 13.5 kWh of energy capacity, enough to make a meaningful difference for many households, especially when paired with solar panels.

Of course, it's not cheap. Installation costs can be significant, and it works best when properly matched to your home’s energy use. It is not a magic money-printing box attached to your wall.

But for households serious about reducing carbon emissions, improving energy resilience and making better use of renewable power, it is a strong option worth exploring.

The real appeal of Powerwall is not just the sleek design or the famous badge on the front. It is the idea of energy independence.

Use less. Waste less. Panic less when the lights flicker.

That feels very green indeed.

Because the future of sustainability is not just generating clean power, it's being smart enough to keep it for when you need it.

https://www.tesla.com/en_gb/powerwall

SocialBox.Biz Champions “Reuse Before IT Disposal” for Earth Day 2026

In celebration of Earth Day 2026, SocialBox.Biz has announced a strategic call to London businesses to rethink their computer hardware life-cycle strategies.

This is the core message of the "Call SocialBox.Biz First" initiative. 

By contacting SocialBox.Biz first, companies ensure their functional IT equipment goes towards more high-impact reuse with SocialBoxBiz.

The initiative highlights a shift from traditional computer recycling to a "reuse-first" model with SocialBoxBiz, emphasising the dual benefits of environmental sustainability and social equity such as older adults supported by Age UKs in London.

A recently published case study by Age UK Islington (view here: https://shorturl.at/iAKxI) showcases the tangible impact of this collaboration.

 By diverting functional IT hardware from recycling scrap heaps, SocialBox.Biz provides repurposed laptops and tablets to disadvantaged individuals, including older adults who rely on computer access for essential services and social connection.

"With the growing concern over the environmental impact of decommissioned technology, this partnership serves as a timely call to action," a spokesperson for SocialBox.Biz told That's Green.

"By choosing to donate and reuse before they recycle, London companies can significantly reduce their carbon footprint while helping provide computer access to those who can not afford computer hardware or software in our local communities."

Key highlights of the Earth Day 2026 campaign include:

Environmental Protection: Promoting reuse as a superior alternative to recycling, saving an average of 316kg of CO2 per laptop.

Social Empowerment: Providing technology to disadvantaged groups and older adults.

Corporate Responsibility: Helping London firms meet impact targets through secure, data-wiped hardware reuse and donations.

As Earth Day 2026 approaches, SocialBox.Biz are calling on business leaders to pledge their old, functional IT equipment to this cause.To learn more about the IT reuse program or to arrange a collection, please visit https://www.socialbox.biz/.

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Scientists Forecast ‘Godzilla’ El Niño Threat in 2026

Forest Fires in Indonesia Risk Triggering Global Impacts on Climate and Biodiversity.

Forests across Indonesia face increased fire risk this year as climate scientists forecast a strong El Niño event in 2026, with some discussions referring to it as a “Super” or “Godzilla” El Niño.

This phenomenon is expected to be intensified by a positive Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD), potentially leading to a longer and drier dry season and significantly reduced rainfall across many parts of Indonesia. 

These two phenomena are projected to occur simultaneously starting in April 2026, raising serious concerns about increasing risks of forest and land fires with impacts that could extend beyond local landscapes to global climate systems.

The combination of these climate patterns causes rain clouds to concentrate over the Pacific Ocean while Indonesia experiences significant drought conditions. This situation is expected to persist throughout the 2026 dry season, from April to October.

In Ketapang, West Kalimantan, the conditions have been unseasonally dry since February 2026. Forest fires have already occurred, including fires that reached the YIARI restoration area within the Pematang Gadung Village Forest. This landscape has been undergoing restoration efforts to recover after severe fires in 2015 and 2017. 

While El Niño is naturally occurring, the extreme dry conditions are exacerbated by climate change, forest loss and land use changes. The current situation serves as a serious warning that the climate crisis is no longer a distant threat, but something already being experienced directly on the ground.

Dr. Karmele Llano Sanchez, CEO of YIARI, partner of International Animal Rescue, explained that for tropical forest landscapes in Kalimantan, the combination of El Niño, land-use change, forest degradation, and the broader climate crisis creates an extremely dangerous situation. 

She told That's Green: “Forests that have been cleared, converted, or affected by extractive activities become far more vulnerable to fire. The risk multiplies in areas that have lost natural forest cover and in peatland landscapes that are drying out. When fire emerges in such areas, the impact goes beyond the loss of vegetation—it accelerates global warming and has the potential to create even more extreme crises.”

“This is exactly what occurred during February and March in the Pematang Gadung Village Forest. As surrounding areas became dry and fuel loads increased, some land was burned for agricultural and plantation purposes. 

These fires then spread rapidly and expanded. We are seeing warning signs long before the peak of the dry season arrives, and this is deeply concerning. Conditions are already far drier than usual, even though the dry season has not yet reached its peak. When rain stops for longer periods, vegetation dries out, water sources shrink, and degraded landscapes become highly flammable,” she added.

Thanks to quick action on the ground, the fires have been prevented from spreading further. A joint firefighting team consisting of local communities, government authorities, and YIARI staff, worked continuously under extreme heat and weather conditions. 

With approximately 45 hectares affected, these efforts successfully prevented the fire from spreading into larger forest areas with high conservation value.

Local communities served as the frontline in early detection and initial firefighting, while government support through coordination and resources, combined with YIARI’s field readiness, strengthened the overall response. Without this multi-stakeholder collaboration, the fires could have spread exponentially, threatening more habitats, increasing carbon emissions, and amplifying risks to public health and safety.

According to Karmele, the threat of forest and land fires is not only about the loss of trees or damaged landscapes. The impacts extend widely across biodiversity, climate systems, and human health. “When forests burn, we lose habitats and push wildlife closer to extinction. 

Orangutans, sun bears, clouded leopards, and many other species that depend on tropical forests lose their living space, food sources, and protection. At the same time, smoke from fires threatens public health, particularly for children, the elderly, and vulnerable communities who must breathe hazardous air for days or even weeks.”

International Animal Rescue’s CEO, Gavin Bruce, said: “We have experienced these extreme El Niño events in the past and witnessed the devastation to nature and the wellbeing of the local people. We know what could be coming and we must act fast to do all we can to mitigate the threat. With the right equipment and training, and by empowering the forest-edge communities, we can scale up the prevention efforts and do all we can to limit the destruction.

Past experience shows how severe the risks can become if such threats are not addressed early. The 2015–2016 El Niño event, one of the strongest on record, triggered massive forest fires across several regions of the world, including Southeast Asia. In Indonesia, fires during that period caused a severe haze crisis, becoming both an environmental disaster and a major public health emergency. In 2015 alone, YIARI rescued no fewer than 44 orangutans affected by the large-scale forest and land fires.

Karmele emphasized that prevention remains the most critical line of defence. “In extreme conditions, not every fire can be completely prevented. However, with proper preparation, early monitoring, strong community involvement, adequate equipment, and rapid response in high-risk areas, we can slow the spread of fires, protect high-conservation-value forests, and reduce broader damage. Time is a crucial factor. Every day without preparedness increases the risk.”

YIARI is currently strengthening a range of mitigation measures on the ground, including increased fire preparedness, patrols, monitoring of high-risk hotspots, and close collaboration with communities as the first line of defence across forest landscapes. 

Community-based initiatives such as The Power of Mama also play an important role in protecting nature, highlighting how women at the grassroots level have a vital role in safeguarding their territories from fire and environmental destruction. This approach is not only essential for protecting wildlife, but also for safeguarding public health, livelihoods, and the safety of communities living alongside fire-prone landscapes.

Experts agree that we can no longer treat these annual forest fires in Indonesia as routine seasonal disasters. Every hectare of forest burned represents a loss of biodiversity, an increase in carbon emissions, worsening air quality, and growing pressure on both people and wildlife.

The warning is now here. Prepare now or risk losing millions of hectares to fire this 2026 El Niño.

You can find out more and help us prepare and prevent a catastrophic fire situation here: https://www.internationalanimalrescue.org/appeal/fire-crisis-fund

Leading Shipowners embrace partnership model for sustainable vessel recycling

Wreckdock is witnessing a fundamental shift in how the maritime industry approaches vessel decommissioning, as prominent shipowners join the platform as long-term partners rather than seeking one-off recycling contracts. 

This partnership model centers on shared governance, transparency, and strategic alignment at board level, marking a departure from purely transactional approaches.

The development reflects a broader industry recognition that responsible end-of-life solutions require sustained commitment beyond immediate commercial considerations.

A governance-based approach to ship recycling

Unlike conventional recycling arrangements, Wreckdock's partnership structure integrates shipowners into decision-making processes that shape industry standards. 

This model creates accountability mechanisms that extend throughout the vessel's final journey, helping ensure practices align with environmental and social responsibility commitments made at the corporate governance level. 

The approach responds to growing pressure from investors, regulators and civil society for demonstrable sustainability outcomes in maritime operations.

The partnerships reflect increasing awareness that conventional ship breaking practices carry reputational and regulatory risks that companies can no longer afford to overlook. 

By embedding environmental justice principles into decommissioning frameworks, participating shipowners acknowledge that operational responsibility extends to a vessel's entire lifecycle.

Industry maturation beyond optimisation

"We're observing a maturation in how serious shipowners think about their environmental footprint," Erwin Jager, spokesperson and CEO of Wreckdock told That's Green. 

"These partnerships show that companies increasingly understand responsible recycling as a strategic imperative, not merely a compliance exercise. The shift from transactional thinking to collaborative governance represents the kind of systemic change our industry needs."

This evolution comes as international regulations tighten around ship recycling practices, with frameworks like the Hong Kong Convention establishing clearer standards for safe and environmentally sound breaking. 

Shipowners joining Wreckdock position themselves ahead of regulatory developments while contributing to improved industry-wide practices.

Alternatives to harmful practices

The partnership model offers shipowners credible alternatives to facilities that continue operating under conditions harmful to workers and communities in developing regions. By choosing platforms committed to clean and safe recycling, companies can reduce the likelihood that their vessels contribute to the environmental and social damage associated with beaching practices still prevalent in parts of South Asia.

FACTFILE:

Wreckdock operates a secure ship recycling facility that ensures clean, safe and equitable practices while providing workers with decent employment conditions. The platform's commitment to sustainable decommissioning is based on respect for human rights, workers' rights and principles of global environmental justice. Wreckdock aims to act as a catalyst for transforming global ship recycling through effective advocacy and operational excellence.

https://www.wreckdock.com

Landscape of globally rare habitat restored near Loch Ness in one of first and largest projects of its kind in Scotland

Image courtesy James Shooter Rewilding Europe

In one of the first and biggest projects of its kind in Scotland, a landscape of over1,000 hectares of a globally rare and threatened habitat is being restored near Loch Ness, as part of Britain’s largest rewilding initiative.

A partnership of charities, landowners and businesses has joined together to save and repair a connected area of blanket bog, among the world’s rarest habitats,across three neighbouring and diverse landholdings.

It has been facilitated by charity Rewilding Affric Highlands, which coordinates a growing partnership of landowners forming the Affric Highlands landscape. Peatland restoration consultancy Caledonian Climate is providing expert advice and support.

The 1,024 hectare-project is being carried out across rewilding charity Trees for Life’s Dundreggan estate, privately owned land at Guisachan, and Corrimony Farm.

“This is about restoring a whole ecosystem at landscape scale, with a shared commitment to tackling the nature and climate emergencies and benefitting local communities,” Stephanie Kiel, Rewilding Affric Highlands executive director told That's Green.

Healthy peatlands are one of the planet’s most efficient carbon sinks. They also reduce flood and wildfire risk by regulating water movement, filter and clean water, and support a unique range of wildlife and plants.

Scotland contains 13% of the world’s blanket bog, a type of peatland found in only a few parts of the world with cool, wet or oceanic climates. 

But 80% of the country’s peatlands are degraded, for reasons including drainage, extraction for fuel, overgrazing, and wildfires.

Overgrazing and trampling by high numbers of deer, for example, damages the thin layer of vegetation and prevents natural regeneration of bog plants. The exposed peat then dries out and erodes, worsening climate change by releasing rather than absorbing carbon dioxide.

The Affric Highlands peatland project includes 464 hectares at Trees for Life’s Dundreggan estate in Glenmoriston, 315 hectares at Corrimony Farm, and 245 hectares at Guisachan.

This ecologically important landscape encompasses Lochs ma Stac, na Beinne Baine, and Liath. It is home to moorland and wetland birds including dunlin, golden plover, and black-throated divers, as well as otters, water voles, lizards, and invertebrates.

With backing and funding from a British Dragonfly Society project, supported by the Scottish Government’s Nature Restoration Fund, managed by NatureScot, breeding pools are being restored for dragonflies across all the landholdings. It's hoped this will benefit rare, threatened bog species, the white-faced darter, azure hawker, and northern emerald.

The project will also benefit peatland plants including dwarf birch, sundews, alpine bearberry, cloudberry, and sphagnum mosses.

David Girvan of Corrimony Farm, an upland working farm with about 150 suckler cows and 180 breeding ewes, told us: “We’re showing that farming can work well with peatland restoration, which makes a real difference for keeping carbon locked up. It’s good to see such a big area across different estates being restored together.”

Advanced techniques are being used across the landholdings to halt erosion, raise the water table, and revegetate bare peat areas. Reprofiling peat hags – ridges of eroded dry soil on which vegetation can’t re-establish, and gullies prevents erosion. Drain blocking and dam constructions can rewet the bog and aid regeneration of sphagnum moss.

Sphagnum moss reintroduction through transplants is another key strategy. This species can hold up to 20 times its weight in water, and promotes the waterlogged, acidic conditions needed for revegetation and peat formation.

“This cross-boundary project should be beneficial to a wide range of species. Several years of careful planning and organisation should create long-term biodiversity benefit,” said Alex Grigg, at Guisachan.

Peat is a black spongy soil, formed from accumulated layers of sphagnum and other vegetation in waterlogged conditions. A single metre of peat can take 1,000 years to form.

“Peatlands are amazing, wild places that are being lost worldwide. With our neighbours, we want this initiative to be a beacon of hope and inspiration for restoring blanket bog across Scotland,” said Gwen Raes, Trees for Life’s Dundreggan estate manager.

Funders include Peatland ACTION, Wilderway, and Alex Grigg. In a further example of innovation, The Peatland Restoration Foundation (PRF), a new initiative led by a group of five individual food and drink companies – PEAT’D, Suntory Global Spirits, Bruichladdich, Isle of Raasay and Inchdairnie – are co-funding the restoration at Corrimony Farm.

The PRF brings together organisations using peat commercially to provide an accessible pathway to ensure that any food or drink company can restore more peat than they use.

Caledonian Climate and Wilderway will carry undertake monitoring for the IUCN’s Peatland Code, to ensure the project delivers lasting biodiversity and climate benefits. Independent verification will ensure transparency of results.

Affric Highlands, Britain’s largest rewilding landscape, and a member of Rewilding Europe’s family of major European-wide flagship rewilding landscapes, brings together a coalition of landowners, local people, charities, businesses and others to boost biodiversity, tackle climate change, and create social and economic opportunities.

It aims to restore nature across in excess of 200,000 hectares of the central Highlands, through a linked network of landholdings from Loch Ness to Kintail. See affrichighlands.org.

From Plantation Waste to Wardrobe: How Banana Farming Is Inspiring Sustainable Materials

Every year, millions of tonnes of bananas are harvested around the world. Yet few people realise that the fruit we eat represents only a tiny portion of the banana plant. 

Once a bunch of bananas is harvested, the rest of the plant, including the thick trunk-like pseudostem, leaves, and fibres, is often discarded. 

Traditionally, this agricultural waste has been left to rot in fields or burned, contributing little value and sometimes adding to environmental problems.

Today, however, a growing number of innovators, designers, and agricultural researchers are transforming this waste into something remarkable: sustainable materials that can be used for clothing, textiles, packaging, and even construction.

Turning Banana Waste into Fibre

Banana plants are rich in strong natural fibres. These fibres can be extracted from the plant’s pseudostem, the thick stalk that supports the fruit, after harvesting. 

Instead of being discarded, the stalk can be processed using mechanical decorticators that separate the fibres from the plant pulp.

The resulting banana fibre is surprisingly versatile. It is naturally biodegradable, strong, and breathable, making it suitable for a wide range of textile applications. 

In some regions, particularly in parts of Asia, banana fibre has been used traditionally for centuries to produce fabrics, ropes, and mats.

Modern technology is now taking this age-old material to a new level. Innovative start-ups are refining the fibre to create soft yarns that can be blended with cotton, hemp, or recycled textiles. 

The result is a durable and environmentally friendly fabric that requires far fewer resources than many conventional materials.

Fashion Meets Sustainability

Several sustainable fashion brands have begun experimenting with banana-based textiles. Designers are using banana fibre to produce clothing such as jackets, shirts, and accessories that combine durability with a low environmental footprint.

Unlike synthetic fabrics derived from petroleum, banana fibre is entirely plant-based and biodegradable. Using agricultural by-products rather than newly grown crops also reduces pressure on land and water resources.

Some textile innovators are even developing leather-like materials made from banana plant waste. These alternatives to animal leather are gaining attention from environmentally conscious designers who want cruelty-free, low-impact materials.

Benefits for Farmers and the Environment

Beyond sustainability, banana fibre production offers an important economic opportunity for farmers. Instead of throwing away plant residues, growers can sell banana stems to fibre processors or operate small-scale fibre extraction units themselves.

This additional income stream can help support rural farming communities while reducing agricultural waste.

From an environmental perspective, utilising banana plant waste helps reduce methane emissions that can occur when organic material decomposes in large quantities. It also cuts down on the need for synthetic fibres, which often release microplastics into waterways.

A Circular Future for Agriculture

The banana industry is beginning to embrace a circular economy approach, one where nothing is wasted and every part of the crop has value. Fruit feeds the world, while stems and fibres can clothe it.

As consumers become more aware of the environmental impact of fast fashion and wasteful production systems, innovative materials like banana fibre offer a glimpse of a more sustainable future.

In the years ahead, the humble banana plant may not just be known for the fruit in your lunchbox — but also for the shirt on your back. 

Hope Spring Signs MoU to Expand Water Poverty Alleviation Training

A new partnership between Hope Spring Water and Haba Naija is set to strengthen efforts to tackle water poverty in underserved regions of Nigeria through training, volunteering, and grassroots engagement.

Under the agreement, Haba Naija staff in Nigeria will undergo structured training delivered by Hope Spring Water, equipping them with the knowledge and tools needed to support water poverty alleviation workshops. The initiative aims to extend Hope Spring Water’s reach into parts of Nigeria where it currently has limited or no operational presence, ensuring that more communities benefit from sustainable water education and intervention programmes.

Speaking on the partnership, Tomi Onigbinde highlighted the importance of collaboration in driving impact: “This partnership represents a powerful step forward in our mission to combat water poverty. 

"By working with Haba Naija, we are not only expanding our reach but also empowering local teams with the skills and knowledge needed to create lasting change within their own communities. Sustainable impact begins with local involvement, and this initiative brings that vision to life.”

The training programme will focus on key areas such as community engagement, water sanitation awareness, project implementation strategies, and monitoring impact outcomes. Trained volunteers will then support outreach workshops across targeted regions, helping to educate communities about safe water practices while identifying areas in need of intervention.

Bujola Ogunremi also expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration: “At Haba Naija, we are deeply committed to initiatives that create meaningful impact across Nigeria. Partnering with Hope Spring Water allows us to leverage our local presence and network to support an important cause. Our team is excited to contribute directly to improving lives by helping extend access to clean water education and solutions.”

This partnership reflects a growing recognition of the role digital platforms can play in supporting real-world development initiatives. By combining Hope Spring Water’s expertise in water poverty solutions with Haba Naija’s local reach and influence, the collaboration is expected to accelerate awareness, engagement, and action.

Both organisations believe the initiative will serve as a scalable model for future partnerships aimed at addressing critical social challenges across Nigeria and beyond.

https://www.hopespring.org.uk

Celebrating World Heritage Day: Protecting the Stories of Our Past

Every year on 18 April, people around the globe mark World Heritage Day, also known as the International Day for Monuments and Sites.

It is a day dedicated to recognising and protecting the cultural landmarks, historic sites, and natural wonders that tell the story of humanity.

From ancient ruins and medieval castles to sacred landscapes and historic cities, these places are far more than tourist attractions. They are living reminders of the people, traditions, and events that have shaped the world we live in today.

What Is World Heritage Day?

World Heritage Day was established in 1982 by the International Council on Monuments and Sites and later endorsed by UNESCO. The aim is simple but powerful: to raise awareness about the importance of cultural heritage and the need to preserve it for future generations.

Across the world, museums, heritage sites, and cultural organisations mark the day with special events, educational programmes, guided tours, and conservation campaigns.

Britain’s Remarkable World Heritage Sites

The United Kingdom is home to an extraordinary collection of World Heritage Sites that highlight thousands of years of history. These sites reflect everything from prehistoric engineering to industrial innovation.

Some of the most famous include:

Stonehenge – one of the most iconic prehistoric monuments in the world.

https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/stonehenge/

Tower of London – a fortress, royal palace and prison steeped in centuries of royal intrigue.

https://www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london/

Ironbridge Gorge – widely regarded as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution.

https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/shropshire-staffordshire/ironbridge-gorge

Edinburgh Old and New Towns – showcasing dramatic medieval and Georgian architecture.

https://www.historicenvironment.scot/advice-and-support/listing-scheduling-and-designations/world-heritage-sites/old-and-new-towns-of-edinburgh/

Each site carries its own unique story and reminds us how innovation, culture, and community have shaped the British landscape.

Why Heritage Protection Matters

Historic sites are vulnerable. Climate change, urban development, pollution, tourism pressure, and neglect can all threaten fragile structures and landscapes.

World Heritage Day highlights the importance of conservation work carried out by archaeologists, historians, architects, and volunteers who dedicate their efforts to safeguarding these places.

Protecting heritage is not simply about preserving buildings. It is about protecting identity, culture, and memory.

How You Can Celebrate World Heritage Day

You do not have to travel far to participate. Consider:

Visiting a local historic site or heritage attraction

Supporting heritage charities and conservation organisations

Learning about the history of your town or village

Sharing photos or stories of heritage places you love

Even a walk through a historic high street or countryside landmark can reveal fascinating glimpses into the past.

A Shared Global Legacy

World Heritage Day is a reminder that the treasures of the past belong to all of us. By protecting historic places today, we ensure that future generations can continue to learn from them, explore them, and be inspired by them.

After all, heritage is not just about where we have been, it helps shape where we are going next.

International Bat Appreciation Day: Why Bats Deserve Our Respect

Each year on International Bat Appreciation Day, wildlife lovers, conservationists, and environmental organisations take a moment to celebrate one of the most misunderstood creatures in the natural world. 

Far from being frightening or sinister, bats are actually vital to healthy ecosystems, including here in the United Kingdom.

For readers of That’s Green, this is the perfect opportunity to recognise the quiet but essential role bats play in supporting biodiversity and maintaining natural balance.

Nature’s Night-Shift Gardeners

Bats are extraordinary animals. Worldwide there are over 1,400 species, making them the second largest group of mammals after rodents. In the UK alone we are home to 18 different species, including the common pipistrelle, soprano pipistrelle, brown long-eared bat, and the rare greater horseshoe bat.

Their ecological importance is immense. Many bats are natural pest controllers, feeding on thousands of insects every night. A single pipistrelle bat can eat around 3,000 insects in one evening, helping farmers and gardeners reduce the need for pesticides.

Elsewhere in the world, bats also act as pollinators and seed dispersers, supporting forests, fruit crops, and plant biodiversity.

Protected and Precious

Despite their value, bats face many threats, including habitat loss, pesticide use, and disturbance of roosting sites. In the UK, bats and their roosts are strictly protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations.

This protection reflects how fragile many bat populations have become. Renovation of old buildings, removal of mature trees, and excessive outdoor lighting can all disrupt the dark environments bats depend on.

International Bat Appreciation Day encourages people to learn more about these animals and to support efforts to protect them.

How You Can Help Bats

You don’t need to be a scientist to support bat conservation. Small changes in gardens and communities can make a big difference:

Plant night-scented flowers to attract insects that bats feed on

Install a bat box to provide safe roosting spaces

Avoid chemical pesticides in gardens

Reduce outdoor lighting where possible to maintain dark flight paths

Support local wildlife groups involved in bat monitoring

Many wildlife organisations across the UK also run bat walks and evening listening events, where participants can hear bats using special detectors. These events are a wonderful way to experience the secret life of bats at dusk.

Celebrating the Night’s Guardians

Bats may be creatures of the night, but their contribution to the environment is impossible to ignore. By controlling pests, supporting plant life, and enriching biodiversity, they quietly perform a crucial ecological role.

International Bat Appreciation Day reminds us that protecting bats is not just about saving one species, it’s about protecting the delicate balance of nature itself.

So the next time you spot a small silhouette darting across the evening sky, remember: you are watching one of nature’s most efficient and valuable environmental allies at work.

https://www.bats.org.uk

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Britain’s New Recycling Rules Explained: What “Simpler Recycling” Means for Households and Businesses

Britain’s new “Simpler Recycling” rules are changing how households and businesses sort waste. 

Discover what the new recycling system means, what bins you’ll need, and how it affects the environment.

Britain’s recycling system has long suffered from confusion. 

What you could recycle in one council area might be rejected in another. Different bin colours, different collections and different rules created a patchwork system that frustrated households and businesses alike.

That confusion is now being addressed through the Government’s “Simpler Recycling” reforms, a nationwide overhaul of how waste is sorted and collected across England.

The aim is straightforward: make recycling easier, more consistent and far more effective.

Ending the Recycling “Postcode Lottery”

For years, local authorities operated different recycling systems. Some councils collected paper and card separately; others mixed everything together. Some accepted certain plastics while neighbouring areas rejected them.

The new reforms aim to standardise recycling collections across England, creating a consistent set of materials that can be recycled regardless of where you live.

This should reduce confusion and improve recycling rates by making it clear what goes where.

The Four Core Waste Streams

Under the new system, households will generally be expected to separate waste into four main categories:

Food waste – including raw and cooked food, tea bags and leftovers

Paper and card – newspapers, cardboard packaging and similar materials

Dry recyclables – such as plastic bottles, cans, tins and glass packaging

Residual waste – non-recyclable rubbish that must go to landfill or energy recovery

Waste collectors across England must now provide collections for these streams, although the exact bin configuration may vary depending on local council arrangements.

A major change for many households will be weekly food waste collections, meaning kitchen caddies will become a routine part of domestic recycling.

Changes Already Affecting Businesses

Businesses actually faced the first phase of these reforms earlier.

Since March 2025, workplaces in England with 10 or more employees have been required to separate recyclable materials and food waste from their general waste streams.

Typical workplace recycling streams now include:

Plastic

Metal cans and foil

Glass

Paper and cardboard

Food waste

Smaller businesses will be required to follow the same rules by March 2027.

Why Food Waste Is a Key Focus

Food waste is one of the biggest challenges in the UK’s waste system. Large volumes still end up in landfill, producing methane and contributing to climate change.

By separating food waste at the source, councils can send it for anaerobic digestion, turning waste into renewable energy and fertiliser instead of landfill.

It’s a small behavioural change that could make a major environmental difference.

What Households Should Expect

Many households will notice several practical changes:

New or additional bins and food caddies

More detailed sorting guidance from councils

Changes to bin collection schedules

Clearer rules on what is and isn’t recyclable

Some councils that previously had only one or two bins may introduce three or four.

The goal is not necessarily more recycling bins, but better sorting and less contamination, which currently causes large amounts of recyclable waste to be rejected.

A Cultural Shift in Waste

Ultimately, the new recycling regime is about more than bins.

It represents a shift towards treating waste as a resource rather than a nuisance. Materials such as metals, plastics and food scraps can all be reused, recycled or converted into energy.

If the reforms succeed, Britain could see cleaner recycling streams, less landfill waste and a recycling system that people actually understand.

And that would be a welcome change.

PlanetWEST Transforms U.S. Fuel Infrastructure into a Nationwide Carbon Capture Grid

PlanetWEST has launched its pioneering MIDAC G2 carbon capture technology, a solution designed to turn America’s 120,000 retail gas stations into active "carbon hubs." 

By integrating carbon removal directly into existing fuel retail outlets, PlanetWEST is establishing a dense, distributed grid capable of capturing atmospheric Carbon emissions without the need for new land development.

The "Midstream Direct Air Capture" (MIDAC G2) Advantage

The MIDAC G2 (pat.pend.) system leverages the strategic footprint of the American gas station to solve the primary hurdles of carbon sequestration: siting, zoning, and logistics. 

Rather than building massive, isolated carbon capture plants, PlanetWEST utilises its micro intelligent direct air capture technology added to the cooling radiators of the nation’s fleet of almost 300 million vehicles to capture solid carbon in the form of Black Carbon as well as PM 2.5 and plastic microparticles, storing it in small tanks and pumping out utilising the pre-existing infrastructure of the neighborhood fuel stop.

Nationwide Geographic Coverage: With 120,000 locations, the grid offers immediate scale across every demographic in the U.S.

Ready-to-Use Infrastructure: Gas stations are already zoned for hazardous materials, equipped with high-capacity utility hookups, and feature underground storage tanks and established logistics networks.

High Visibility: These consumer-friendly locations bring carbon removal out of the shadows and into the public eye, fostering community engagement with climate goals.

Energy Transition Without Displacement

The MIDAC G2 rollout represents a pragmatic shift in the energy transition. By repurposing oil and gas infrastructure, PlanetWEST provides a pathway for "transition without displacement," protecting the economic value of existing assets while pivotally shifting their environmental impact.

"We are essentially de-risking stranded assets," the PlanetWEST leadership team told That's Green.

"By turning gas stations into carbon hubs, we extend the utility of current infrastructure and position traditional fuel companies as the carbon managers of the future."

Strategic Alignment for Energy Majors

For oil majors and fuel retailers, MIDAC G2 offers a seamless integration into long-term transition strategies. It allows these entities to align with global net-zero targets while maintaining their geographic footprint. This distributed approach reduces the reliance on massive, centralized pipelines and instead creates a localized, resilient network for carbon management.

https://www.planetwest.net

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"Please Look After This Bear" Celebrating World Bear Day and The Gift of Freedom for Retta, from Broken to Beautiful

World Bear Day (23rd March) is the perfect time to reflect on International Animal Rescue’s (IAR) work with bears, and one extraordinary tale of hope stands out. 

In 2024, the IAR team met Margaretta (Retta), an ex-circus bear who spent years confined in a tiny cage, serving as a sad spectacle for visitors at a tourist resort in Armenia. The tale was tragic and, as the photo clearly shows, heartbreaking for poor Retta.

But today, Retta's life is transformed. Thanks to an extraordinary rescue mission by International Animal Rescue (IAR) and its Armenian partners, FPWC (Foundation for the Preservation of Wildlife and Cultural Assets), Retta now roams freely.

Retta's heartbreaking journey began in captivity, where she suffered for many years of neglect and isolation. Her cage, a small concrete closet, was her entire world; with no chance to explore, play, or feel the earth's warmth beneath her paws, Retta's life was a shadow of what it should have been.

This changed when animal protection and conservation charity International Animal Rescue (IAR) and FPWC launched a daring rescue to free Retta from her cage and transport her to safety. Working tirelessly with local authorities and police; the team navigated logistical challenges to ensure Retta could begin a new chapter of life.

Two years on, Retta now lives a life where she is cared for and looked after at International Animal Rescue and FPWC's bear sanctuary, where she can finally live as nature intended, enjoying a life she never knew existed.

International Animal Rescue's President, Alan Knight OBE, told That's Green: "Rescuing Retta was a monumental effort, but seeing her rediscover her instincts and joy make it all worth it. Her resilience inspires us to keep fighting for animals like her, who desperately need a second chance at a life worth living."

Sharing Retta's story this World Bear Day couldn't be more timely, as Paddington the musical celebrates award wins sweeping across the board, Retta's story echoes this famous bear's plea: "Please look after this bear." Retta reminds us that acts of kindness, big or small, can create miracles. 

"But our work and Retta’s journey doesn’t stop here Retta will need daily care and support for the rest of her life, which is only possible because of our wonderful supporters.

International Animal Rescue invites you to read more inspiring stories or support our bears at www.internationalanimalrescue.org.

Bluwater Solutions: Smart Water Innovation for a Greener Future

Water is one of our most precious natural resources, yet it’s often taken for granted.

 Across the UK and beyond, concerns around water quality, plastic waste, and sustainable infrastructure are growing louder. 

Enter Bluwater Solutions, a company at the forefront of clean water technology, offering innovative systems designed to reduce environmental impact while improving access to safe, great-tasting drinking water.

What is Bluwater?

Bluwater is a Swedish-based water technology company specialising in advanced purification and sustainable hydration solutions. Their mission is simple but powerful: eliminate the need for single-use plastic bottles by delivering purified water wherever people need it, homes, workplaces, and public spaces.

The Problem: Plastic Bottles and Water Waste

The UK alone uses billions of plastic water bottles each year, many of which are not recycled. Add to that concerns about microplastics, contaminants, and ageing water infrastructure, and it becomes clear that a smarter solution is needed.

Bluwater tackles these issues head-on by:

Reducing reliance on bottled water

Cutting plastic waste at the source

Improving water purity beyond standard filtration

The Technology Behind Bluwater

At the heart of Bluwater’s systems is advanced reverse osmosis and membrane filtration technology. Unlike standard filters, which can miss microscopic contaminants, Bluwater systems remove:

Microplastics

Bacteria and viruses

Heavy metals

Chemical residues

The result? Water that is not only safer but often tastes significantly better, something that encourages people to ditch bottled alternatives altogether.

Real-World Applications

Bluwater’s solutions are already being used in a wide range of settings:

Airports and transport hubs , refill stations reducing traveller reliance on bottled water

Hotels and restaurants, offering premium still and sparkling water on-site

Offices and workplaces, improving sustainability credentials

Events and festivals, cutting down on plastic waste

This scalability makes Bluwater particularly attractive for businesses looking to meet ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) goals while offering a practical benefit to customers and staff.

Why It Matters for Sustainability

Bluwater isn’t just about clean water, it’s about changing behaviour.

By making refill stations and purified water more accessible, the company helps normalise reusable bottles and reduce single-use plastics. This shift is crucial if the UK is to meet its environmental targets and reduce landfill and ocean pollution.

Key sustainability benefits include:

Significant reduction in plastic bottle usage

Lower carbon footprint from transport and manufacturing

Encouragement of reusable habits

Improved public access to clean drinking water

A Smarter Way Forward

As sustainability becomes a priority for individuals, businesses, and governments alike, solutions like Bluwater offer a glimpse into a more responsible future.

Rather than relying on disposable convenience, we’re seeing a shift towards infrastructure that supports sustainable living, and water is a perfect place to start.

For readers of That’s Green, the message is clear: small changes, like choosing refill over purchase, can have a big impact. And with companies like Bluwater leading the way, making that choice is becoming easier than ever.

Bluwater Solutions represents a powerful blend of technology, sustainability, and everyday practicality. By rethinking how we access and consume water, it’s helping to tackle one of the most visible environmental challenges of our time.

If the future is refillable, reusable, and responsible—Bluwater is already there.

https://www.bluewatergroup.com/en-gb

Don’t Be a Sinner, Be a Binner!

A campaign from That’s Green

Litter is one of the simplest environmental problems to solve, yet it continues to spoil our streets, parks, and countryside. 

That’s why That’s Green is encouraging everyone to remember one simple message:

Don’t be a sinner — be a binner!

Every day, small pieces of rubbish such as plastic bottles, food wrappers, drinks cans, and takeaway containers are dropped in public places when a bin may only be a few steps away. When waste ends up on the ground instead of in a bin, it can harm wildlife, block drains, and make our communities look neglected.

Using a bin, and recycling when possible, is a small action that makes a big difference.

Recycling helps reduce landfill waste, saves energy, and cuts the need for new raw materials. Something as simple as recycling an aluminium can or plastic bottle helps reduce environmental impact and keeps valuable materials in use.

Being a “binner” simply means taking responsibility for your rubbish. Carry it until you find a bin, recycle where facilities exist, and encourage others to do the same.

If everyone makes this small change, the results could be huge: cleaner streets, healthier wildlife, and a greener environment for everyone.

So next time you finish a snack or a drink, remember the campaign slogan:

Don’t be a sinner — be a binner.

https://www.wrap.ngo/take-action/love-food-hate-waste/food-waste-action-week

https://www.zerowastescotland.org.uk/resources/some-best-litter-prevention-campaigns-around-world

https://www.keepbritaintidy.org

https://www.hellorayo.co.uk/greatest-hits/entertainment/seasonal-events/great-british-spring-clean-england

Peek-A-Bear! Rescued mum and dad wake baby bear following her first hibernation

One year on ‘The great bear rescue’ family successfully hibernate in Armenia.

A year ago, International Animal Rescue (IAR) took part in the rescue of three Syrian brown bears, Aram, Nairi and their young daughter Lola. 

Today, IAR are happy to report that the bears have successfully undergone their first-ever natural hibernation period in the sanctuary, thanks to the expert care they received following their rescue.

When their colleagues at the Foundation for the Preservation of Wildlife and Cultural Assets (FPWC) discovered Aram and Nairi confined to filthy cages in someone’s backyard in Yerevan, Armenia, they had suffered years of appalling abuse. 

The pair were denied even basic husbandry and Nairi was regularly bred with by the owner to produce cubs which were sold on.

Little girl bear Lola was kept imprisoned with them and her mother, having been born in captivity. This winter, after months of recuperating from their rescue at FPWC’s wildlife rescue centre with support from International Animal Rescue, all three of these bears have been able to undergo their first-ever proper winter rest periods – a sure sign that they have physically recovered from their ordeal and learned to trust that rescue teams will keep them safe.

Confined to filthy cages and denied even the most basic of care, the bears were discovered during an investigation by the Foundation for the Preservation of Wildlife and Cultural Assets (FPWC) following a public tip-off.

Their rescue saw FPWC and International Animal Rescue coming together to secure their freedom. Described by International Animal Rescue (IAR) as their “most difficult rescue to date”, it took over 12 hours. The rescue involved a court-ordered confiscation, police intervention, and transport under heavy rain and during darkness.

This difficult rescue started when the team arrived at the property at 9 am, but the bear’s owner refused entry despite a legal order. 

After a prolonged standoff, they finally gained access as night fell and worked into the night to sedate and remove the bears from their appalling conditions.

Alan Knight OBE, President of International Animal Rescue was on the ground to witness their their rescue.

Alan told That's Green: “This difficult rescue started when the team arrived at the property at 9 am, but the bear’s owner refused entry despite a legal order. After a prolonged standoff, they finally gained access as night fell and worked into the night to sedate and remove the bears from their appalling conditions. 

"These bears had clearly suffered for many years and these were some of the worst conditions I have ever seen. The stench, the filth, the sheer cruelty of locking these animals up in tiny cages."

Today, thanks to veterinary care and round-the-clock specialist care at FPWC’s wildlife rescue centre, just a few months after the rescue, all three bears have been able to settle into their new home. 

“To see them happy and healthy, knowing they have a future now, makes everything we went through worth it. Completing their first hibernation and exhibiting these natural behaviours is an incredible sight. We are so grateful to the FPWC team and all of our donors and supporters for making this a reality.”

Donate to the bear appeal here https://www.internationalanimalrescue.org/appeal/bearfamily.

Recycling Lives Services Reaffirms Purpose-Driven Mission with B Corp Recertification

Recycling Lives Services has secured recertification as a B Corporation, reinforcing its commitment to responsible business practices at a time when companies face growing scrutiny over the environmental and social impact of their supply chains.

The UK recycling and waste management provider achieved an impressive B Impact Score of 103.5, comfortably exceeding the 80-point threshold required for certification and more than doubling the median score of companies completing the assessment.

This coincides with B Corp Month, the annual global campaign celebrating businesses meeting high standards of social and environmental performance, transparency and accountability. The B Corp movement, led by B Lab, now includes over 10,000 certified organisations across over 100 countries and 160 industries, from multinational brands such as Danone and Patagonia to thousands of SMEs.

This year’s recertification arrives at a pivotal moment. In 2026, B Lab introduced the most significant update to the B Corp standards since their launch in 2006, replacing the previous flexible scoring model with a new framework requiring companies to meet mandatory performance thresholds across several impact areas.

Recycling Lives Services maintained its triple-digit score following assessment across key areas including governance, environmental performance and social impact.

Its business model combines commercial recycling operations with programmes designed to support people facing barriers to employment. Through its national infrastructure, Recycling Lives Services works with businesses across sectors like construction, infrastructure, manufacturing and retail, including Tier One contractors such as Amey and Wates.

Construction is one of the UK’s largest waste-generating sectors, increasing the need for transparent recycling systems and responsible materials management across major projects.

Environmental performance sits at the heart of the company’s operations. Recycling Lives Services currently achieves 97% diversion from landfill, delivering a 61% reduction in operational CO₂ emissions, and has processed over 12.5 million batteries for recycling.

Alongside environmental progress, it has developed a strong focus on social value. Its rehabilitation and employment programmes, particularly those supporting ex-offenders and individuals facing barriers to work, have helped thousands of people access training and employment opportunities. These initiatives have also contributed to lower reoffending rates among programme participants compared to the national average.

The recertification reflects a wider shift across industry supply chains. Businesses are increasingly expected to demonstrate measurable environmental and social impact alongside commercial performance, particularly as social value now carries a minimum 10% weighting in central government procurement and can reach 20–30% in some local authority frameworks.

Lucas Hargreaves, Projects Director at Recycling Lives Services, told That's Green that the certification represents more than a benchmark.

“B Corp certification provides an important benchmark for responsible business, but for us it reflects something deeper about how we operate. Our model has always been built on the idea that environmental performance and social impact should be embedded within commercial operations rather than treated as separate initiatives.”

Looking ahead, Recycling Lives Services plans to continue investing in circular economy infrastructure and programmes that link environmental performance with meaningful social outcomes, helping businesses partner with waste management providers capable of delivering both operational efficiency and genuine impact.

http://www.recyclinglives-services.com

A Call for a National Clean-Up Campaign for Britain’s Roads and Railways

A call for a nationwide UK campaign to clean roadside and railway verges, bringing together councils, schools, businesses and charities to tackle litter and protect wildlife.

Across the UK, millions of people travel daily along our roads and railways. These routes form the arteries of the country, connecting communities, businesses and families. 

Yet many of the verges lining these vital corridors are increasingly blighted by litter. Plastic bottles, takeaway packaging, discarded cans, papers, boxes and other waste often accumulate in plain sight, creating an environmental and visual problem that affects both wildlife and national pride.

It is time for a coordinated nationwide campaign to clean up Britain’s roadside and railway verges, one that brings together local councils, schools, colleges, rail operators, businesses and charitable organisations in a shared mission to restore these spaces.

Why Verge Litter Matters

Roadside and railway litter is more than just unsightly. It poses real environmental risks.

Plastic and packaging can easily be blown or washed into waterways, contributing to the UK’s growing microplastic problem. 

Wildlife is also affected: birds, hedgehogs and other animals can become trapped in, injured or even killed by discarded waste. In agricultural areas, litter can even harm livestock when it ends up in fields.

Beyond environmental harm, litter also damages the perception of our communities. Visitors arriving by train or travelling along motorways should see the best of Britain, green landscapes, thriving nature and well-kept surroundings — not piles of waste.

A Nationwide Solution

Cleaning up roadside and railway verges cannot fall on one group alone. A nationally coordinated effort could transform the problem into an opportunity for community engagement and environmental education.

Local councils could organise scheduled verge clean-up days and provide equipment, waste collection and safety guidance. 

Schools and colleges could integrate clean-up activities into environmental education programmes, encouraging students to take pride in their local area while learning about sustainability.

Businesses could support the campaign through staff volunteering days, sponsorship of clean-up equipment or by “adopting” sections of roadside or railway verges (with co-ordination with rail authorities) near their premises. 

Charities and community organisations already experienced in environmental volunteering could help coordinate local events and recruit volunteers.

Education and Prevention

Cleaning up existing litter is only part of the solution. A successful campaign must also focus on prevention.

Public awareness campaigns, including signage along roads and stations, could highlight the environmental impact of littering. 

Schools and youth groups could play a key role in educating younger generations about responsible waste disposal and recycling.

When communities work together on visible projects like verge clean-ups, attitudes can change quickly. People are less likely to litter in areas that are clearly cared for.

A Greener Vision for Britain

Imagine travelling along Britain’s roads and railways and seeing clean, flourishing verges filled with wildflowers and wildlife habitats rather than discarded rubbish. With coordinated action, this vision is achievable.

A nationwide verge clean-up campaign would not only protect wildlife and improve landscapes, it would also strengthen community spirit and demonstrate a shared commitment to protecting the environment.

Britain’s roads and railways connect us all. By working together, we can ensure the land alongside them reflects the pride we have in the country we call home.

Organisations that you can contact are:-

https://www.keepbritaintidy.org

https://cleanupbritain.org

https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/keep-it-bin-it-anti-littering-campaign

https://capstone-news.ghost.io/the-best-anti-littering-campaigns-science

https://nationalhighways.co.uk/our-work/environment/litter-resource

https://www.litternet.org.uk

https://www.zerowastescotland.org.uk

https://kidsagainstplastic.co.uk/1millionlitterpick

MNB Spring Craft Market returns on 4 April 2026 at OOTB Drill Hall, Edinburgh

MNB is back for spring, and bringing a fresh wave of creativity with it. On Saturday 4 April 2026, the MNB Spring Craft Market takes over OOTB Drill Hall Edinburgh from 10:00am–4:00pm, inviting everyone to browse, chat, and fall in love with work that’s actually made by real artists and makers.

This year’s market is bursting with new energy: over half of the stall holders are first-time MNB traders, joining a carefully selected line-up of returning favourites.

 Expect a proper craft market experience, the kind where you can meet the person behind the work, hear the story, and leave with something meaningful (and beautifully made).

Thoughtful curation, lighter footprint

MNB is a community interest company with curation at its core, and that includes what things are made from, not just what they look like. Across the stalls you’ll find a strong focus on eco-friendly materials, recycled and upcycled pieces, and makers choosing more sustainable processes wherever possible. If you’re looking for small-batch goods with care stitched, poured, carved, printed or painted into them, you’re in the right place.

And just to be crystal clear: no drop-shippers, no mass-produced imports, and no AI-generated “craft” filler. This is all things handmade, by people who do the work.

Welcoming, accessible, and sensory-friendly, too.

The market is designed to be easy to enjoy, whether you’re popping in for a quick browse or making a day of it:

Sensory Hour: 10:00–11:00am (a calmer start to the day)

Accessible venue at OOTB Drill Hall Edinburgh

Pet friendly (bring your well-behaved pals along)

Food and drinks available from the Drill Hall Café

Tickets: Entry is free, but tickets should be booked in advance. Free entry tickets are available on Skiddle

https://www.skiddle.com/whats-on/Edinburgh/Out-Of-The-Blue-and-Drill-Hall-Arts-Cafe/MNB-Spring-Craft-Market/41949979/

https://mnb-scotland.co.uk/