Thame Environment Group joined the CAG network in December 2006 and promptly held their first swap shop in January 2007. The Environment Group was formed to oversee the implementation of certain aims of 21st Century Thame's Vision and Action plan and activily promote conservation.

What we do

Thame Environment Group promote reusable bags, "Bring your own bag to Thame campaign". Jute bags can be used again and again, available from selected outlets in Thame. Thame Environment Group has also produced a calico bag with the logo ‘Bag it don’t bin it’ and are working with local retail outlets in Thame to sell the bags and encourage people to use them

Thame Environment Group has held a number of successful swap shops and would like to give some tips on running one:

Tips on running a swap shop

A Swap Shop is a waste exchange event where members of the public have the chance to get rid of things they don’t want and pick up something they need – all for free! Many people describe it as a kind of cashless jumble sale. Participants do not need to bring anything in order to take away goods and vice versa. Swap Shops recognise that one man’s junk is another man’s treasure and use this fact to reduce ‘waste’.

Items to be exchanged should be brought along on the day. You are most welcome to donate and not take any items and vice versa.

The types of items to bring along are:
• CDs/DVDs/Videos
• Books
• Kitchen goods
• Gardening Equipment
• Clothes
• Bric -a- brac
• Toys
• Games
Electrical items are not permitted due to regulations. If there are large items, such as furniture, which you would like to get rid of then bring along a photo with contact details and these can be pinned up on a board. You could also try freecycle which is a useful website to help dispose of larger items.

Annual bike event

Thame Environment group also holds an annual bicycle event. This gives people in the town the opportunity to have minor repairs made, swap or sell their bikes. Held in the spring.

For further information please contact Alison Isherwood, 21st Century Thame Project Officer on 07944 175633 or e-mail ai@21stcenturythame.org.uk

Contact Alison Isherwood, 21st Century Thame at ai@21stcenturythame.org.uk or check out thier web-site: http://21stcenturythame.org.uk

or contact Frances Buckel CAG Development Officer at frances.buckel@resourcefutures.co.uk