TRADERS in Dulverton have launched an initiative with bags of potential to help the environment, thanks to a grant from Somerset County Council’s Climate Emergency Community Fund.

They have unveiled jute and paper bags for customers to become more eco-friendly and move away from plastic bags.

The bags feature Dulverton’s new branding including a logo featuring the many colours of Exmoor, with an artistic impression of a stag forming the letter D.

The traders were keen to unite under the new branding to appeal to visitors and boost the local economy following the impact of Covid-19.

They will also be flying flags with the branding outside their shops and premises.

Cllr Christine Dubery, Dulverton Town Council chairman, who runs a shop within Dulverton Post Office, said: “This is an exciting and welcome opportunity for the Dulverton business community to be involved in, reducing our impact on the environment and to promote our stunning location within Exmoor National Park.

"The feedback regarding the new branding has been universally positive, and the branded paper and jute bags have delighted all concerned.”

Dulverton’s Plastic Free Shopping is among 44 projects awarded grants from the county's Climate Emergency Community Fund.

A £1.5million pot was created to support schemes that help reduce carbon emissions, reduce waste, raise community awareness of climate change and enhance the natural environment.

Other initiatives that have already benefitted include projects to encourage cycling, grow and deliver local fruit and vegetables, and add solar panels to buildings.

Cllr David Hall, cabinet member for economic development and community infrastructure at County Hall, said: “It is fantastic to see the Climate Emergency Fund enabling people in Somerset to take action within their communities to help combat climate change.

“The Dulverton Plastic Free Shopping is a great initiative in that it will not only help the environment, but also raise the profile of the town’s shops and businesses too.”

Somerset County Council has a new climate emergency webpage with information to help Somerset work towards the goal of being carbon neutral by 2030.

It includes news on tackling the climate emergency, information and tips for individuals and organisations on how to reduce their carbon footprints, details on the action Somerset’s local authorities are taking, and much more. Visit Climate Emergency (somerset.gov.uk).