E-bikes, hedgehog walks and heat pumps

Welcome to the April edition of Green Steps! With the weather looking up, we've got items on e-bikes, hedgehog walks (with the Wildlife Trusts) and ways to feel all warm and fuzzy with a government heat pump grant. Enjoy!

Get on yer e-bike!

Electric bikes can be a great alternative to driving and a lot less hard work than using a manual bike.

Sustrans, the sustainable transport charity, has put together nine reasons to ride an electric bike and we think they’re quite convincing. 

If you’re interested in finding out if an e-bike is right for you, Petersfield Climate Action Network (PeCAN) is running an event on Wednesday 16 April with Petersfield Bike Buddies where you can ask questions and even give one a try. 

Alternatively, you can hire one for free from Cycle Sphere in Whitehill & Bordon to ride on the Green Loop.

Take your little ones on a hedgehog walk this month

This spring, The Wildlife Trusts invites you to join The Hedgehog Walk!

From 31 March to 13 April, take on the challenge of walking 3km while fundraising for wildlife along the way.

With the support of Aardman and your favorite Timmy Time characters, you’ll not only enjoy the outdoors but also help create a safer world for hedgehogs, badgers, and more.

Sign up now and get your fundraising pack, including posters, factsheets and activity sheets.

Alton Climate Action Network (ACAN) is running a series of 10 guided walks and four creative workshops based around the South Downs National Park. The first is on Sunday 6 April. Find out more about this and other events on their website.

Help to switch to a heat pump with a £7,500 grant

Heat pumps are three times more energy efficient than traditional gas boilers, meaning they will substantially reduce the carbon footprint of your home. Because they run on electricity, there’s also potential to make significant bill savings by using smart tariffs with cheaper off-peak rates.

The government offers a £7,500 grant towards installing a heat pump across England and Wales through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme.