Epsom and Ewell Climate Action Network launches with community events and initiatives
A new community movement is taking shape in the borough with the launch of the Epsom and Ewell Climate Action Network (eeCAN) – a local volunteer group working to empower residents through inclusive projects that build resilience to climate change.
EECAN’s mission is simple but ambitious: to help communities adapt and thrive in a changing world. Its projects focus on practical solutions, awareness-raising, and supporting climate-friendly policies. Everything the network offers at the moment is totally free and open to all, ensuring that everyone can take part in building a more sustainable, climate-resilient Epsom and Ewell. Users of the services will be given the opportunity to make any donations they feel they can afford if they want to help the charity do even more for their community.
“Epsom and Ewell Climate Action Network has grown so much in the last 12 months as a result of the energy and commitment of volunteers wanting to help their local communities reduce Climate risks while saving money” says William Ward the Chair and co-founder of the group.
Epsom and Ewell Library of Things
Launching to the public in spring next year, this innovative “Library of Things” will allow residents to borrow items instead of buying them, reducing waste and promoting sharing. From carpet cleaners and wallpaper steamers to pressure washers and gazebos, residents will be able to borrow tools and equipment for free, thanks to donated items. Donations of nearly new equipment are now being sought. Those able to help are asked to contact eeClimateActionNetwork@gmail.com or visit https://eecanlibraryofthings.myturn.com/library.
eeCAN is developing this initiative in partnership with Surrey County Council Library Services (for front of counter service) and with Epsom & Ewell Borough Council, in association with The Epsom Repair Café, who ensure that all electrical items are safe to use.
Bike Amnesty – Saturday 22 November 2025
Got a bike you no longer use? Donate it! Between 9am and 5pm at Epsom Methodist Church, Scout Hall, Ashley Road KT18 5AQ, residents can drop off unwanted bicycles to be refurbished and passed on to people who need them.
The scheme helps promote active, low-carbon travel while supporting those who might not otherwise afford a bike. Just turn up with your spare bikes. This free service is provided in partnership with Surrey County Council’s “Active Surrey” team.
Contact: eeClimateActionNetwork@gmail.com
Climate Conversations – every 2nd and 4th Monday of the month
eeCAN also runs regular Climate Conversations at Birchgrove Lower Mill, Kingston Road, Ewell KT17 2DQ, from 10:30am to 12:30pm. These informal gatherings give residents a friendly space to learn, share experiences, and explore all aspects of climate change together.
One participant said, “I often feel so motivated after one of our meetings!”
The upcoming session on Monday 24 November will feature Dr Kristine Damberg, online presenting “What can we eat for human and planetary health”, a talk exploring how our food choices affect both personal wellbeing and the planet.
Anyone can join in using this link: https://meet2.organise.earth/rooms/95o-iug-ems-2p6/join
Living Rivers Exhibition – April to May 2026
Looking ahead, eeCAN will host a Living Rivers Art Exhibition at the Ebbisham Centre, Epsom KT19, in association with The Royal Marsden. Running from 22 April (Earth Day) to 22 May 2026, the free exhibition will celebrate the beauty and importance of rivers and waterways.
Inspired by writer Robert Macfarlane’s question “Is a river alive?”, the exhibition will showcase artwork from local schools, community groups, and individuals.
Submissions (A4 max-sized drawings or paintings) are invited by 27 March 2026, with eeCAN volunteers offering to collect (and return) artworks directly from schools and art groups. Groups will be invited to see their work on display and participate in nature-themed activities.
Email eeClimateActionNetwork@gmail.com for participation details.
A community coming together
From swapping tools and donating bikes to sharing climate ideas and artistic expression, eeCAN’s initiatives reflect a spirit of cooperation, creativity, and care for the environment.
Its organisers believe that by taking small, collective steps, Epsom and Ewell can make a big difference — helping local people live more sustainably while building resilience for the future.
For more information, contact eeClimateActionNetwork@gmail.com or follow eeCAN’s activities through their upcoming community channels.
