The heart of Waltham Forest is perhaps not the first place you would think of to locate an environmental centre. But despite this urban setting – or, more appropriately, because of – Hornbeam Environmental Centre is working hard to make practical and sustainable environmental activities in the surrounding area possible.

The Centre works with other community groups in the area, on projects that help to improve the local environment of Waltham Forest. Various projects the Centre has been working on include Friends of Parks in Waltham Forest and the Waltham Forest Biodiversity Action Plan. At the moment, they’re writing an Environmental Strategy for Leyton in consultation with residents. The strategy will enable the Leyton Neighbourhood Forum to carry out sustainable activities in the ward. The Centre also runs education programmes in the borough’s schools, helping to teach the children about local environmental and sustainability issues.

The Centre is not just limited to working with community groups, however. They are open for two days a week to offer advice and information on a wide range of environmental issues including renewable energy, waste reduction, recycling, sustainable food procurement and production, wildlife gardening and biodiversity. Visitors to the Centre can enjoy a cup of Fair Trade tea or coffee and purchase Fair Trade and recycled goods.

Case study issued in November 2005