Better Bankside, one of London’s pioneering Business Improvement Districts (BIDs), has recently become the newest member of Pollinating London Together (PLT). This membership is particularly noteworthy as Better Bankside is the first BID and the first organisation from the south side of the River Thames to join PLT.
Established in 2005, Better Bankside has consistently demonstrated a commitment to enhancing urban green spaces and promoting sustainability within the Bankside area. Their innovative approach has transformed numerous grey spaces into vibrant green areas, benefiting both residents and visitors. Notably, the Bankside Urban Forest project, launched in 2007, has added over 10,000 square meters of green public space and more than 250 newly planted trees to the neighbourhood. This initiative has been recognised with prestigious accolades, including a Gold award in the Urban Community category at the 2024 London In Bloom Awards.
Better Bankside’s dedication to environmental sustainability extends beyond greening projects. They have been instrumental in launching the Southwark Climate Collective, a year-long initiative providing free, expert support to 160 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the London Borough of Southwark. This program aims to reduce carbon emissions and foster a community of local businesses committed to accelerating climate action.
By joining PLT, Better Bankside aligns itself with a network of organisations dedicated to promoting biodiversity and supporting pollinator populations across London. This collaboration underscores their ongoing efforts to create sustainable urban environments and enhance the ecological health of the city.
As the first BID and the first member on the south side of the River Thames to join PLT, Better Bankside sets a precedent for other organisations to actively participate in city-wide environmental initiatives. Their membership in PLT not only highlights their leadership in urban sustainability but also reinforces the importance of collective action in addressing environmental challenges.
In conclusion, Better Bankside’s membership in Pollinating London Together marks a significant step toward a more biodiverse and sustainable future for London. Their continued dedication to environmental stewardship serves as an inspiring example for other districts and organisations aiming to make a positive impact on the urban ecosystem.
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