NCWGB and National Independent Consumer Organisation seminar 26 Jan 2026
What would help you to go green?’ A big thank you to the brilliant speakers:
Louise Baxter, MBE National Independent Consumer Organisation
Ros Horsley UK Business and Professional Women
Sudha Srivastava British Federation of Women Graduates
Members really enjoyed our January event on greener living. We were inspired that every action to reduce our impact on the planet helps address climate change. Three out of four adults report having made lifestyle changes and two thirds want to reduce their environmental impact. There is consumer desire to “go green” and to find practical day to day adjustments but many people feel priced out or confused or see limited options available. So we need to give more guidance to consumers and address disinformation and misinformation especially around costs.
Barriers can be overcome by clear consumer information, affordability and accessibility and by community support and shared learning. Habits formed at an early age become lifelong values. So both school and home have a role to play. We need to see children as agents for change as we act to protect the planet for the next generation. Small steps can have a big impact.
There’s a concern that consumers are more isolated nowadays, with home grocery deliveries etc. reducing the amount of human contact. Messages are not always taken on board, e.g. the use of plastic bags, and local councils can give inconsistent advice. Labelling on clothing should be improved to highlight those made with fewer chemicals. Green washing needs to be addressed.
National Independent Consumer Organisation, an NCW Associate, took note of all the issues and concerns we raised and will use them to help work out how they can help consumers for the future.
Photo shows: Ann Davison, Jilly Rogers, Louise Baxter. Sudha Srivastava, Joanna Kinsey and Ros Horsley.