Uniting for a Greener Tomorrow: Exploring South London’s Environmental Groups

Amid the vibrant urban landscape of South London lies a community that's deeply committed to preserving and safeguarding the environment.

Amid the vibrant urban landscape of South London lies a community that’s deeply committed to preserving and safeguarding the environment. South London is home to a network of passionate environmental groups striving to make a positive impact on the planet. From grassroots initiatives to established organisations, these groups work tirelessly to promote sustainable practices, protect local ecosystems and raise awareness about pressing environmental issues.

Peckham area

Southwark Cyclists

In a city notorious for traffic congestion, Southwark Cyclists advocate for a greener and healthier mode of transportation – cycling. With a mission to promote cycling as an everyday means of commuting, the group encourages the development of safe cycling infrastructure and hosts cycling events that bring together enthusiasts from all walks of life. By reducing reliance on cars and promoting a more eco-friendly alternative, Southwark Cyclists contribute to cleaner air and reduced carbon emissions in the region.

Find out more: southwarkcyclists.org.uk

Peckham Coal Line

Peckham Coal Line is an ambitious project that aims to transform an abandoned railway line into a green pedestrian and cycling pathway. By reclaiming neglected urban spaces and converting them into vibrant green corridors, the group aims to enhance biodiversity, provide green recreational spaces and promote active transportation. Through crowdfunding and community involvement, they’ve garnered support from locals who eagerly anticipate the transformation of this former industrial area. Currently paused, the project could continue if a new core team of trustees/volunteers get involved.

Find out more: https://www.peckhamcoalline.org/

Plastic-free Peckham

A community group helping Peckham go plastic-free with Surfers Against Sewage

Find out more: facebook.com/pfpeckham

Centre for Wildlife Gardening, Peckham

Wildlife garden and award-winning visitor centre in a quiet residential street in Peckham. Volunteer days are run on Wednesdays.

Find out more: www.wildlondon.org.uk/nature-reserves/centre-wildlife-gardening

London Wildlife Trust: Nature Nurtures, for 16 to 25 year olds

Nature Nurtures is a new cross-sector project led by London Wildlife Trust with partners Spread the Word, Black Girls Hike CIC and London Youth. The project will offer a host of exciting opportunities for young people that link natural heritage with creative arts, to get more young people volunteering and taking action for nature. Nature Nurtures will also be an opportunity to explore themes of wellbeing, identity & cultural heritage within the environmental sector.

Find out more: sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk/get-involved/volunteer/young-people/wildlife-rangers

Dulwich area

The South London Botanical Institute (SLBI)

Dedicated to plant research, conservation, and education, the South London Botanical Institute has been nurturing a love for botany and the natural world since 1910. The institute’s garden serves as a green oasis in the heart of South London, offering visitors a chance to reconnect with nature and learn about native plant species. Through educational programs and community events, the SLBI inspires people of all ages to appreciate and protect the rich biodiversity found in their own backyard.

Find out more: www.slbi.org.uk

Dulwich Vegetable Garden

The DVG was established to encourage people to learn about growing their own fruit and vegetables. The produce from the garden is shared with volunteers when it is harvested. Everyone is welcome to look around or join the activities.

Find out more: Just come along (Dulwich Park, College Road, SE21 7BQ (the garden is behind Rosebery Lodge in Dulwich Park) or email dulwichveggarden@gmail.com

Dulwich Upper Wood Local Nature Reserve

Conservation volunteers are very welcome at Dulwich Upper Wood, a Local Nature Reserve, educational facility and place of recreation.

Find out more: www.tcv.org.uk/london/urbanecology/urban-ecology-sites/dulwich-upper-wood

Brockwell Park Community Greenhouses

Brockwell Park Community Greenhouses (BPCG) is a community garden in the centre of Lambeth’s Brockwell Park. The large site includes an orchard, demonstration gardens, a walled herb garden and two commercial-sized greenhouses. Volunteer gardeners are welcomed

Find out more: www.brockwellgreenhouses.org.uk

Sydenham Hill Wood & Dulwich Wood

London Wildlife Trust runs well-organised volunteer work days throughout the year in Sydenham Hill Wood & Dulwich Wood to improve habitats for wildlife.

Learn more: https://wildlondon.org.uk/nature-reserves/sydenham-hill-wood-and-coxs-walk

Lewisham area

Climate Action Lewisham

Climate Action Lewisham is a local residents’ action group working to support and generate initiatives in Lewisham that reduce our collective carbon footprint and promote healthy and thriving neighbourhoods in the face of our climate and ecological crisis.

Find out more: climateactionlewisham.org

Nature Conservation Lewisham

The group encourages outdoor learning and is keen to work in partnership with schools to provide classes.

Find out more: https://natureconservationlewisham.co.uk/

Friends of Garthorne Road Nature Reserve

Join a dedicated group of local residents keen on protecting and preserving this wonderful site to ensure that people of Lewisham (and beyond) can enjoy the delights it has to offer.

Find out more: garthorneroadnaturereserve.com

Merton area

Sustainable Merton

Operating in the borough of Merton, Sustainable Merton is a community-driven organisation committed to creating a more sustainable and resilient future. By collaborating with local businesses, schools, and residents, they work towards reducing waste, promoting renewable energy and enhancing biodiversity. The group’s innovative projects, such as community gardens and urban beekeeping, contribute to the well-being of both people and the environment.

FInd out more: www.sustainablemerton.org

Merton Green Parents

Merton Green Parents is a group of local parents who have come together to share advice and ideas on how to make their parenting journey more sustainable.

Find out more: https://www.sustainablemerton.org/greenparents

Croydon area

Croydon Climate Action

Croydon Climate Action is a group of passionate individuals who work with local communities, councils, businesses and schools to ensure the future of Croydon is climate-friendly. They have initiatives such as Trees4Croydon, Croydon for Warm Homes and Pesticide-Free Croydon.

They welcome everyone from the local area to join.

Find out more: www.croydonclimateaction.com

Croydon Community Energy

Founded in 2021 by Croydon residents looking to make a difference, Croydon Community Energy is an apolitical Community Benefit Society, created to implement community-backed renewable energy generation, energy efficiency projects and education in the borough.

Learn more: www.croydoncommunityenergy.co.uk

Join an environmental action group

The list of environmental action groups is growing in line with the climate crisis; find your local one listed below and ask them what they have planned to get the local youths involved.

Friends of the Earth

Friends of the Earth, a household name in the environmental movement, has a strong presence in South London. This grassroots organisation focuses on several key areas, including sustainable transport, green spaces, and plastic reduction. They engage local communities through workshops, campaigns, and events, fostering a sense of environmental responsibility and encouraging individuals to make conscious lifestyle choices that contribute to a healthier planet.

Find out more: