Every day approximately 8 million pieces of plastic pollution find their way into our oceans and PHG’s charity cycle ride is designed to raise greater awareness.
This is just one of the many staggering statistics reported by Surfers Against Sewage and what got Nigel Fowler (Duftons Plumbing & Heating) and Matt Pysden (Sussex Plumbing Supplies) talking at a conference 18 months ago. They decided something needed to change and they would use their industry connections to make a difference. The opportunities available within the plumbing and heating industry to make meaningful environmental changes is a passionate topic for both Matt and Nigel who believe that some simple steps and pressures applied in the right places could significantly help the war on plastic pollution and the carbon crisis.
Both being keen sportsman, environmentalists and PHG members, they decided to put into motion organising a cycling event for PHG members and its suppliers. What better way to raise awareness in the industry than cycling 150 miles around the beautiful Yorkshire Dales? Led by some of the most experienced merchants in the UK’s plumbing and heating industry, PHG recognised the value of Matt and Nigel’s vision and the platform the PHG group could offer to turn their initial conversation in to an event to make a difference.
It also posed the ideal opportunity to raise money for two significant charities fighting against carbon crisis and plastic pollution; Surfers Against Sewage who are dedicated to protecting our oceans, waves, beaches and wildlife and The Woodland Trust whose focus is the creation, protection, and restoration of native woodland heritage.
And so the PHG Revolution 150 was born.
PHG Revolution 150 aims to drive home the message of how important and simple it is for everyone to make a difference to the environment at work and at home. It intends to inspire change at all stages of the supply chain from manufacturer to consumer by influencing suppliers to adopt and develop more environmentally friendly practices, making green steps more attainable for all concerned.
Matt Pysden commented, “In the process of setting up PHG Revolution 150 we have come to realise just how passionate people are about the environment, how much companies are already doing and are planning to do, which is really encouraging. With overwhelming support for PHG from the members, staff and suppliers, the maximum number of cyclists signed up within just a few days plus all the sponsorship packages were snapped up almost immediately – it’s set to be one epic event!”
Nigel Fowler continued, “We hope it will be an absolutely incredible experience for everyone taking part, and that they go home with new information and knowledge to help us all build a cleaner, brighter industry and country whilst raising a few pennies for our charity partners.”
“A few pennies” being quite the modest statement as the event hopes to raise tens of thousands of pounds for Surfers Against Sewage and The Woodland Trust. Helping bring Matt and Nigel’s vision to life are Diane Dennison Buying Group Administrator and John Dicken Instinct Brand Manager who have been instrumental in orchestrating the event.
