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The Big Green Picnic

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For all the very latest information on the Big Green Picnic, please use this link to view the April 2008 Press Release.

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The Big Green Picnic is a community-based event to encourage individuals of all ages and families to do their bit to create Eco Island. It is a high-profile public gathering in Newport town centre on May 24 and 25 where low carbon and sustainable lifestyles will be highlighted. It aims to inspire people to lead a green lifestyle, demonstrate what steps they can take to achieve that and what products and services are available to help them.

The Big Green Picnic will also:

• Launch the Council's programme of work to reduce resident's carbon emissions
• Educate, inspire and entertain
• Provide practical examples of sustainability, including existing Council activities
• Showcase the best the Island has to offer
• Help residents, visitors and businesses act in ways that minimise their environmental impact

The event will also provide an opportunity for businesses and voluntary groups to highlight their green credentials and activities to thousands of people. Existing green organisations will also be invited to explain the work they are involved in.

The key activities will be:

• A series of themed marquees and areas representing the following categories:


• Food (Local Produce)
• Transport
• Arts & Crafts
• Lifestyle / Home / Gardening
• Beauty & Health
• Energy & Water
• Construction
• Waste & Recycling
• Natural Environment

There will also be a central stage for music and performance, exhibitions of environmental art, possibly including school projects, a local heat of the solar car challenge, the promotion of healthy local food (people will also be encouraged to bring picnics), workshops using natural and recycled materials, particularly aimed at families and children and a cinema tent.

The event will practice what it preaches by minimising the use of resources in its promotion and delivery. Marketing and promotion will use viral techniques, a central location will reduce travel, recycling on site will reduce waste and local, healthy food will be available. A biodiesel generator will provide power for the site.

What Can You Do?

Well that is down to you. Already organisations such as the Quay Arts Centre have lined up squarely behind the event and will provide the artistic and creative input and will organise a full programme of participatory workshops, art installations and dressing of the site.

But we will welcome any suggestions for the event, offers to get involved or sponsorship.

You can also help simply by signing up to the Eco Island ethos and spreading the word about what we are aiming to do. We are all in this together and together we can make a difference.