Emma to support Annandale in climate change fight

EMMA Jayne Park is supporting communities in Annandale and Eskdale in the fight against climate change.

Having recently taken on a short-term, part-time role as an engagement officer with the Dumfries and Galloway Climate Hub, she hopes to help deliver climate action and raise awareness locally.

Emma Jayne said: “The Hub is part of the Scottish Government’s national network of community climate action hubs. There are 24 across Scotland, all committed to supporting local communities to take climate action by offering training, seed funding, event collaborations, and sharing best practice.

“In Annandale and Eskdale, that means having someone on the ground who really knows the local community.”

Originally from Gretna and a former pupil of Annan Academy, Emma Jayne moved back to the area last October.

A dance and theatre maker by trade, she first became involved in climate activism a decade ago. Since then, her involvement has grown through her trade union and international initiatives such as the EU’s Global Cultural Relations Programme.

She added: “It’s been a gradual move toward doing dance and climate work in parallel.

“It actually makes a lot of sense because much of my arts practice focuses on community engagement.”

At present, her role involves running five events across Annandale and Eskdale.

Emma Jayne said: “That could mean working with existing groups and amplifying what they’re already doing, mapping local climate activity, or supporting people to design and deliver new projects.”

She’s particularly excited about the Repair Café, launching at Kate’s Kitchen on Wednesday November 26, where people can bring items to be mended.

She said: “There are already a few across Dumfries and Galloway. They’re part of a global initiative to help people reuse and repair rather than replace.”

Her role runs until the end of March, but the Hub are keen to ensure it leaves a lasting legacy through initiatives like the repair café. Emma Jayne is also eager to find ways for her work to continue beyond the project, as a resident committed to supporting her community.

Emma Jayne is keen to hear from anyone with ideas or an interest in local climate projects.

She said: “There’s been quite a lot of Climate Hub activity in other parts of Dumfries and Galloway, but not so much in Annan, we’re a great part of the region with loads to offer.”

She believes many people do care about climate change but are not always sure what they can do, adding: “I think everyone should be more concerned, but there’s still a bit of a class issue – the people with time to think about climate change often have an economic advantage.

“When you start looking at climate justice, you also have to consider the cost of living and how to make people’s lives easier.

“A lot of people recycle, but things like using public transport are harder around here. Still, there’s plenty people can do – and through the Climate Hub, I hope to start those conversations.”

• Emma Jayne Park will be at Annan Community Council on Monday night at 7 pm at Newington Social Club, or get in touch via [email protected]