Eco & Environment, Wimborne | Posted on March 3rd, 2026 | return to news

Launch of Greener Wimborne initiative

Local people will have the chance to explore environmental issues in a series of events organised by u3a Wimborne and Planet Wimborne.

Two local groups are joining forces to offer a new programme of environmental learning experiences. Planet Wimborne and u3a Wimborne want to help local people explore environmental issues through learning, discussion and hands-on experiences, and to explore how small community actions can make a big difference.

The five-session series, ‘Greener Wimborne, Better Planet’, brings together the strengths of both organisations: u3a’s commitment to lifelong learning and Planet Wimborne’s leadership in local environmental action. Each session stands alone, lasts between two to three hours, and blends expert insight with hands-on exploration. All sessions take place at The Reef, Colehill Lane in Colehill unless otherwise stated.

The series is free for u3a members and £10 for non-members.

The series opens on 20 April with ‘What is Planet Wimborne?’ – an introduction to the organisation’s mission, its environmental awards and the network of green community groups it supports. The session also explores how the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals guide Planet Wimborne’s work and shape local environmental action.

On 11 May, ‘Let’s Talk Rubbish’ brings together Wimborne War on Waste and Win on Waste, who will share their expertise on the waste hierarchy. Participants will learn where individual and community efforts can have the greatest impact in reducing what we throw away, with plenty of practical, everyday tips.

The programme continues on 18 May with ‘Wildlife Friendly Gardening’, led by Wilding Wimborne. This session examines the UK’s alarming decline in wildlife and highlights the simple, effective steps gardeners can take to help reverse it. A visit to Wimborne Community Garden may be included, offering a chance to see wildlife-friendly practices in action.

On 1 June, ‘Arts and the Environment’ explores how creativity can inspire environmental awareness, particularly in Wimborne’s Town of Culture year. With contributions from Wimborne Contemporary Arts and Wimborne Community Theatre, the session looks at local artistic projects and considers how we can enjoy culture in ways that respect and protect the natural world.

The series concludes on 15 June with ‘Walk on the Wild Side’, a guided exploration of Badbury Rings and the surrounding woodlands. Participants will discover the birds, plants and wildlife that characterise chalk downland habitats, gaining a deeper appreciation of the landscapes that make our area so special.

This new initiative reflects a shared ambition between u3a Wimborne and Planet Wimborne: to empower local people with knowledge, practical skills and opportunities to connect with and protect the natural world.

u3a Wimborne Chairman Ashley Rowlands said: “We welcome this collaboration with Planet Wimborne. ‘Greener Wimborne, Better Planet’ is about bringing people together to learn, explore and take positive action. Whether you’re passionate about wildlife, curious about waste reduction, or inspired by the arts, there’s something here for everyone in this community collaboration for a greener future.”
Please apply in advance. To book or receive further information, please contact Horace Letchford at membership@wimborneu3a.org.uk.