Meet Rebecca Atherton, a 35-year-old co-director of Turf, Croydon’s homegrown artist space, and the organizer of Greening: the town in which we grew. Rebecca is dedicated to addressing the sustainability challenge in her area by using nature as a metaphor for resilience and persistence in the face of challenges.
Rebecca’s workshop focuses on exploring nature in the borough, taking photos of growing or existing elements, and sharing stories and experiences. These activities culminate in the creation of a collaborative zine that highlights the natural beauty of Croydon.
When asked about how she tackles the climate crisis in her area, Rebecca emphasizes the importance of small actions that have a big impact. She believes that by connecting people to nature and helping them understand the relevance of climate change to their daily lives, real change can be achieved.
Rebecca also sheds light on the concept of solastalgia, a sense of grief caused by environmental degradation or alteration. She notes that many people in Croydon feel a disconnect from nature due to the lack of green spaces in the borough. Rebecca advocates for the importance of reconnecting with nature to inspire care and action towards environmental issues.
Reflecting on her journey towards sustainability, Rebecca shares that her interest began at a young age, influenced by her family’s engagement with nature and conservation. She encourages others to get involved in environmental activities, no matter how small, as a way to combat climate anxiety and fatigue.
In conclusion, Rebecca believes that being around like-minded individuals and engaging in small acts of environmentalism can make a significant difference in combating climate change. By taking simple actions like guerrilla gardening or putting up bird boxes, individuals can contribute to a more sustainable future for their community.
To learn more about local responses to the climate crisis and inspiring stories like Rebecca’s, check out the rest of the Climate Refresh series. Join the movement towards a greener and more resilient future for all!
