Imagine a future where more people use low-energy light bulbs, generate their own electricity, recycle more efficiently and take public transport.
This is just part of the vision of EGG, which was set up in Ellesmere last year to encourage people to take eco-friendly measures, save energy and shop locally in a bid to slash the 
town’s carbon footprint.
One of the ways the group hopes to achieve this is by handing out an EGGcellence Award to businesses, shops, societies and individuals who demonstrate green working practice and for being a shining example to the rest of the community.
Tony Williams, general manager of Ellesmere firm TG Waste Services, has already received an award after telling the group how electricity was being produced from landfill gas methane to support more than 300 houses via the National Grid.
Staff at Ellesmere Primary School also received an award for installing solar heating for the swimming pool. Committee members are hoping more people will follow suit and carry out environmental measures.
Paul Byatt, from the group, said: “We try and encourage people to make their own decisions and to do their own thing in their own way. Green issues are down to life choices.
“We are sure that Ellesmere people will identify with, and want to work towards a sustainable future for the community.
“By setting up our award scheme we hope to encourage more people to think green to achieve a sustainable future.”
The group also aims to continue the ground work already done by the Marches Energy Agency of Shrewsbury, which chose the town of Ellesmere as one of three communities in Shropshire for a project aimed at reducing carbon dioxide emissions.
Efficiency measures
The MEA undertook energy surveys in 48 homes and more than 40 businesses in Ellesmere, with over 700 energy efficiency measures installed.
These included a £42,000 grant towards the town’s primary school towards its solar heating. EGG members hope these measures will reduce the carbon dioxide produced each year in the town by 560 tonnes and will also save the businesses and residents over £100,000 in reduced fuel bills.
Mr Byatt said the group have had a very successful 12 months and hope to continue to work with members of the local community, council and organisations.
“We don’t work to timelines – we want to go about our business working closely with others to ensure we achieve our goals,” he said.
“Many people in the community are already doing something ‘green’.
“Using low energy light bulbs, residents and businesses are already part of EGG because they are helping Ellesmere go green.
“Our aim for the future is to encourage more of the same.”
Mr Byatt added that anybody willing to join the EGG committee is welcome to get in touch with him on 01691 624460 or via the group’s website www.ellesmeregoes green.info
By James Pugh