Marlow Town Council is launching a new community engagement project to encourage greener living.

The council adopted an environmental policy in 2019 and launched the ‘Sustainable Marlow’ programme.

The programme included projects aimed at reducing single-use plastic bottles, engaging Marlow schools in sustainability, and planting more trees.

The new challenge marks the next steps in the council’s sustainability work, targeting all residents in Marlow.

Alongside the challenge, the council will look to improve its own environmental performance and said it will “fully consider” sustainability in its policy decisions.

The ‘BIG Sustainable Marlow Challenge’ sets all residents five ‘eco-missions’.

These are saving energy at home, reducing waste, walking and cycling more, switching to an electric car and helping nature.

The town council will gather and share residents’ positive experiences, highlighting good practices that others can copy.

A council spokesperson said: “It is hoped that the whole town will embrace the project and make Marlow a leader in local sustainability.

“The programme will be supported by a number of local community groups that are passionate about the environment, and will raise awareness of their sustainability projects.”

Deputy mayor and chair of the council’s environment committee, Jocelyn Towns, said: “The challenge will encourage people to come together and be part of creating a greener Marlow.

“ If we all pull together, then we will see more sustainable habits grow and we’ll reach net zero more quickly.”

Headteacher of Great Marlow School, Kevin Ford, said: “I am delighted to hear about the Big Sustainable Marlow Challenge and I look forward to encouraging the school children in Marlow to take part. I am certain the challenge will be taken up by many children and staff.”

Olwen Elliott, from Transition Town Marlow, has welcomed the challenge.

Transition Town Marlow is a community-led initiative on sustainability and climate change.

Olwen said: “We welcome this initiative to increase walking and cycling and are pleased that the Town Council is supportive.

“We look forward to finding and sharing positive stories about active travel in and around Marlow.”

Darren Anvoner, moderator of the Marlow Electric Vehicles Facebook group said: “Our group is proud to help fellow residents who want to transition away from combustion vehicles and delighted to be part of the challenge.”

To share your story with Marlow Town Council on the ‘BIG Sustainable Marlow Challenge’ visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/851532369623827 or email sustainablemarlow@gmail.com.