One of the country s biggest free green events gives everyone the chance to make a difference to the environment, writes Ed Thomas ECO warriors were out in force at the 17th Camden Green Fair and Bikefest. Held in Regent s Park on the first Sunday in J

One of the country's biggest free green events gives everyone the chance to make a difference to the environment, writes Ed Thomas

ECO warriors were out in force at the 17th Camden Green Fair and Bikefest. Held in Regent's Park on the first Sunday in June, the environmental event attracted thousands of people from around the capital and other parts of the world.

Highlights included ethical fashion shows, science and learning zones for children, a mad hatter's sustainable tea party and a solar cinema.

Tasty organic food was also on offer to help keep hunger at bay, while live bands provided entertainment for those in the mood to party.

"It really was a fantastic day, with between 20,000 and 30,000 people coming along," said Wendy Baverstock, a trustee of the Camden Green Fair.

"We were very pleased with the turnout, and glad the rain held off. Highlights were the successful animal demonstrations from London Zoo, the speakers' forum, where experts were quizzed by the public, and the Bikefest where people could get information and maps, have their bikes fixed and take a ride on various types of bike.

"The mayor of Camden also had some fun, hula-hooping and dancing to the music. And we set a new world record for the largest open-air Fairtrade tea dance."

The green fair is held on the first Sunday in June each year to coincide with World Environment Day and to launch the annual London Sustainability Week, now known as Love London.

It has grown to become one of the UK's largest free green events.

Camden Council was also there to launch its new environmental campaign, Small Steps Big Difference. The campaign aims to encourage residents and businesses to cut CO2 emissions, the main gas contributing to climate change.

Council staff were on hand to give practical tips and advice about how to go green.

Council leader Cllr Keith Moffitt said: "Tackling climate change is one of the most important priorities for Camden Council, and we are making it easier for residents and local businesses to do their bit. By taking small green steps in the way we live, work and travel we can make a big difference.

"Simple steps like switching off lights and appliances when not in use, walking or cycling to work, and reducing, reusing and recycling our waste is how we will make a real positive change.

"If all of us can make lots of these steps then together we will make a huge difference. I'm excited to see Camden becoming a leading low carbon and low waste borough.