Helping our community take action for nature, climate and a greener Henley
Henley is fortunate to be surrounded by beautiful countryside, rich wildlife and a community that cares deeply about the future of our town. While Henley Town Council is taking action through its Climate and Nature Emergency work, there are also many ways for residents, businesses, schools and community groups to get involved.
Whether you want to support wildlife, make your home more energy efficient, reduce your environmental impact or volunteer in your community, this page brings together information, resources and opportunities to help you take action.
Every action, however small, can make a difference. Will you be getting involved?
Working Groups
The Working Groups bring together volunteers, local experts and community organisations to help protect and enhance nature across Henley.
Projects include habitat creation, wildlife surveying, pollinator initiatives, tree planting, meadow management and improving spaces for people and wildlife to enjoy.
Whether you have specialist knowledge or simply want to lend a hand, everyone is welcome.
Why get involved?
- Help improve local habitats
- Learn more about local wildlife
- Meet like-minded people
- Support practical conservation projects
- Contribute to Henley’s Nature Recovery ambitions
Find out more about current projects, meeting dates and volunteering opportunities by emailing enquiries@henleytowncouncil.gov.uk
Nature Squared Campaign
Nature Squared encourages everyone to make more space for nature where they live, work and learn.
By creating even small areas for wildlife, we can build a network of habitats across Henley that supports pollinators, birds, hedgehogs and many other species.
You could:
- Plant native wildflowers
- Leave part of your lawn to grow longer
- Create a wildlife-friendly border
- Install a bird box or insect hotel
- Grow climbing plants for insects and birds
- Even a window box or some pots count!
Together, small actions can have a big impact. Join the Nature Squared movement and help create a greener, more wildlife-friendly Henley. Find out more and register your m2 here
Henley: A Bee Friendly Town
Henley has achieved Bee Friendly status in recognition of the work being undertaken across the town to support pollinators and create healthier habitats.
Pollinators are essential to our food supply and play a vital role in maintaining healthy ecosystems. Yet many species face increasing pressures from habitat loss and climate change.
How you can help pollinators
- Plant nectar-rich flowers that bloom throughout the year
- Choose native species where possible
- Avoid using pesticides and herbicides
- Leave some areas of your garden wild
- Create nesting spaces for solitary bees
By making simple changes in gardens, balconies, school grounds and community spaces, we can help pollinators thrive.
Take the Pledge – Greener Henley's Pledge for the Planet
Making a difference doesn’t have to mean making huge changes. The Pledges for the Planet campaign by Greener Henley encourages everyone to commit to simple actions that collectively make a positive impact.
Examples include:
- Reducing energy use at home
- Walking or cycling more often
- Cutting food waste
- Reducing single-use plastics
- Supporting local businesses
- Planting for wildlife
- Choosing sustainable travel options
Choose one pledge or several and encourage friends, neighbours and colleagues to do the same. Explore options and make your pledge here
Greener Homes – Save Energy, Save Money and Reduce Carbon
Improving the energy efficiency of your home can help reduce energy bills, increase comfort and lower carbon emissions.
Whether you live in a modern home or a period property, there are many practical steps that can help.
Home energy improvements
- Loft insulation
- Wall insulation
- Draught proofing
- Double or secondary glazing
- Efficient heating systems
- Heat pumps
- Solar panels
- Smart heating controls
Many improvements can pay for themselves through lower energy bills while making homes warmer and more comfortable.
Greener Businesses – Support for Local Businesses
Are you a Business owner? Businesses play an important role in helping Henley become a greener and more sustainable town.
Improving energy efficiency can help reduce operating costs, strengthen environmental credentials and support customers’ growing expectations around sustainability.
Resources available include:
- Energy efficiency guidance
- EPC information and support
- Carbon reduction planning tools
- Sustainable procurement advice
- Funding and grant opportunities
- Case studies from local businesses
The Climate and Nature Emergency Group has also developed resources to help businesses understand opportunities for improvement and identify practical next steps.
Sustainable Travel – Travel Smarter
Transport is one of the largest sources of carbon emissions. Choosing more sustainable ways to travel can benefit both the environment and personal wellbeing.
Whenever possible consider:
- Walking short journeys
- Cycling around town
- Using public transport – find out more about the Henley Hopper
- Sharing journeys with others
- Combining trips to reduce car use
- Switching to lower-emission vehicles when appropriate
Henley offers a range of opportunities for active travel that can improve health while reducing congestion and emissions.
Share Your Green Story
People across Henley are already taking inspiring action. Have you transformed your garden for wildlife? Reduced your home’s energy use? Started a community project? Made your business more sustainable?
We would love to hear your story.
By sharing examples of local action, we can inspire others and celebrate the positive changes happening across our community.
Get in touch and tell us about your project: katrina.judge@henleytowncouncil.gov.uk
Or tag us on social media @henleytowncouncil or #henleygoesgreener
10 Things You Can Do This Week
Looking for a place to start?
- Plant pollinator-friendly flowers.
- Leave part of your lawn to grow longer.
- Sign up to a local volunteering activity.
- Take the Pledge for the Planet.
- Install a bird box or insect hotel.
- Check your home’s EPC rating.
- Reduce food waste this week.
- Walk or cycle one journey instead of driving.
- Support a local sustainable business.
- Encourage a friend or neighbour to get involved.
Together we can make Henley greener, healthier and more resilient for future generations.