Scarborough

Scarborough Meeting Sustainable Living Group meets monthly, alternating between between a discussion evening at a Friend's house and a shared meal after Meeting for Worship at the Meeting House. Composition of the group varies but usually six to eight Friends attend each meeting.

A recent theme running through our discussion evenings has been "How can we as Quakers inspire and motivate people to modify their lifestyles?" Prophets were influential people. Could we become prophets? Why not?

During our shared meals more practical matters are discussed. Our heating system is nearing the end of its useful life and we are looking into possible ideas for replacement - wood pellet and ground source heat pumps have so far been discussed. Insulation of the building is another topic that keeps recurring.

As a result of work by our group we have now become a Fairtrade Meeting. We placed an order with a local wholesaler for low energy lightbulbs giving all members of the Meeting the opportunity to upgrade at a relatively low price. We are also examining our waste and recycling arrangements at the Meeting House.

Our Monthly Meeting owns an eighteenth century building (Worfolk Cottage) not far from Scarborough that is let out as a holiday cottage to disadvantaged groups and families, and others. It is now in need of refurbishment to comply with disability access requirements and other legislation and the opportunity is being taken to carry out the work using the most environmentally sound methods and materials. It is planned that heating will be provided by a ground source heat pump, wall insulation will use sheep's wool, loft insulation will use material made from recycled newspaper, as much electricity as possible will be supplied by a wind turbine and hot water will be provided by thermal solar panels. Watch this space!

Pete Redwood

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