Attendees were able to enjoy a taster menu of vegan treats and could also exchange pre-loved items, like toys and games, at a gift swap stand. Other activities included building a row of bunting from scraps of fabric, which will be displayed at the next community event organised by Finchley Pollinators. And for the artistically minded, a huge collective print artwork, made of dried flowers and other perishable materials. All in all, it was a great display of recycling and sustainability.

Daniel Mermelstein

Even though Barnet is one of the greenest boroughs in London with more than 2000 acres of green land, annually we are producing 1.76 million tonnes of carbon emissions. That is the equivalent of filling the rugby pitch at StoneX Stadium around 15,000 times - which would take about 79 million trees to absorb! (Barnet is home to 50,000 trees, on record).

Around 240,000 children in London suffer with asthma - about one-third of these cases are linked to air pollution, and around half of London’s air pollution is caused by road transport.

In May 2022, Barnet declared a Climate and Biodiversity Emergency because we recognise that urgent action is needed.

Upon reaching Mutton Brook, we rolled up our sleeves (figuratively, of course) and dove into the litter-picking action along the North Circular Road making our contribution to keeping the area clean. Among the bushes, we encountered Yessica, a fellow volunteer, and speculated about the whereabouts of Daniel Mermelstein, who seemed to be on a solo rubbish-collecting mission somewhere in the wilderness!

Our efforts didn't go unnoticed, as passersby showered us with gratitude for our community-minded endeavors. After a job well done, we bid farewell and dispersed, each making our own way back, feeling accomplished and grateful for the opportunity to combine fitness with making a positive impact on our local environment.

Thanks to everyone who braved the rain, ran with us, and joined in the litter-picking fun. Until next time, keep running and doing good! 🏃‍♂️🌧️🌳