Now in its 6th year running, 2023’s Hebden Bridge Pumpkin Trail explored the effects of climate change on habitat, tipping points, why we have a climate emergency and what we can do about it. The event engaged with schools and colleges to help make the displays and is funded by Hebden Royd Town council.
We created 12 scenes spread across the town which addressed a range of climate issues such as:
- Coastal areas and how sea rise will affect the communities living there
- The Tundra’s changing habitat, and how this can affect reindeer populations
- The danger of grasslands becoming desserts
- Mountain habitats and how rapid climate change puts animals living in the those habitats at risk of extinction, as well as increasing flood and avalanche risk for the people living below
- The potential degradation of forests to grassland if the climate warms too much
- The danger of sea warming on coral reefs which only cover 0.1% of the ocean yet have 25% of all species in the sea!
- Oceans and the effects of plastics on the sea creatures and ocean floor
- Freshwater habitat which supports all life on land, including us
To help the pumpkins tell the stories, Dan made up some beautiful illustrations to explain the climate science. These could be downloaded from the website along with a map
In a sunshine filled St George’s square, Peter and Claire could be found working on a huge live carve of a T-Rex throughout the weekend.
We also hosted a free pumpkin carving workshop for people to bring their own pumpkins and carve, as well as a sandpit for children to enjoy and an oak planting workshop.
There were also two environmental experts positioned on the trail, who were able to answer people’s questions and talk in more detail about these issues, as well as some interactive games so that visitors could explore science through play.
Alongside the Pumpkin trail, was Hebden Royd town council’s first ever Eco Fair! With the aim to facilitate action, innovation and community bonding, a broad range of local organisations, charities, businesses, and individuals delivered climate-related immersive community engagement experiences, focusing on transport, energy, food, waste, biodiversity, arts engagement, and youth. Visitors were able to learn about the world of retrofit, repairing broken everyday items, sustainable household products and plastic production, sustainable food practices, local nature conservation opportunities, local sustainable transport groups, ceramics made from wild clay, wildlife gardening and eco-friendly joinery.
