The Kernel
The Kernel Partnership was formed in 2017 between of St Andrews Botanic Gardens, Transition University of St Andrews, and St Andrews Environmental Network. The group were awarded funding from CCF (Climate Challenge Fund) to create a low-carbon living programme and community space in St Andrews named “The Kernel”.
What We Do
Funding for the project ran until 2020 but the group continue to work together to highlight practical sustainability activities. These include energy reduction demonstrations and expanding educational programmes, alongside complementary practical “sharing economy” activities such as toolshare, bikeshare, and skillshare.
Developing shared economy - (Toolshare, Bikeshare, Skillshare) Over the years, we expanded these successful projects. Weekly skillshare and toolshare hours were increased, enabling us to expand and consolidate engagement, increasing the impact of the projects, whilst addressing inequalities across our community.
Creating a circular economy - Collections take place from both students and residents – allowing any household items in good working order to be redistributed amongst students in the following academic year, or to be provided to people throughout the community. Any tools found to be in good working order during these collections will be donated to be used within the toolshare project.
Energising change - working with households to save carbon through low-tech means/switches to clean energy suppliers.
Improving climate literacy - cross-cutting theme across all projects through developing new communications.
Get Involved!
If you like what we do, there are many ways to engage with us, and we are always happy to speak with people to offer advice.
Home Visits: Our experienced and knowledgeable advisors can help you to reduce your carbon footprint with a range of pragmatic solutions from closing your curtains at night to better insulate the home, to installing any of the renewable technologies we recommend.
Community Gardens: Come along to one of many community gardens throughout the town.
Events & Presentations: We regularly host and attend events/presentations where we discuss and demonstrate effective measures of reducing your carbon footprint. Keep an eye on our events section, as well as our Facebook page for updates.
Volunteering: Assistance from volunteers is a big help to us and is a high impact way of getting on board with our vision. If you like what we do and want to try your hand at volunteering, please get in touch.
Created a low-carbon living programme and community space in St Andrews Botanic Garden
Works to Develop a shared economy and promote the circular economy.
Energising change and Improving climate literacy