About Us
In 2019 a community meeting was held for Auchencairn residents, which identified overwhelming support for the creation of a community group that could move forward projects to address climate issues and enable a move towards a just transition. As a result of this and subsequent meetings, Auchencairn Climate Transition was created, with a constitution finalised in June 2020. Sub groups were created by people with similar interests working together to move projects forward, including for Biodiversity; E-bikes; Social Activities; Energy; Re-use / Reduce waste; and Art.
Between 2019 and 2024 these groups moved forward with a large number of projects that met the groups wider objectives. These included the establishment of an E-bike project with the purchase of e-bikes and recruitment of project workers which has developed into a much wider ranging community transport project; community gatherings and social events with an environmental theme; clothes and book swaps to encourage re-use and reducing waste; climate themed art exhibitions; Climate Conversations; films and related discussions; and biodiversity projects including tree planting in the community field, establishment of a tree nursery and community allotment, and monitoring and improvement of biodiversity in Auchencairn.
After an incredibly successful five years of running projects as a voluntary community group, it was agree that ACT should incorporate as a Scottish Charity. On 14th February 2025, our application for charitable status was accepted. Auchencairn Climate Transition became a SCIO, with seven local residents acting as its Trustees.
The work of ACT is ongoing , with a focus on community events and projects that address climate issues, as well as increasing its membership and profile as a SCIO.
Our Trustees
Simon Brooke: Former AI researcher, software engineer and serial entrepreneur, Simon first came to Auchencairn in 1966, and has lived here for 42 years. A founding director of Auchencairn Initiative, and a founding trustee of Southwest Community Woodlands Trust, he is currently the chair of Standingstone Farm Ltd and Auchencairn Community Council
Jif Hyde: ACT Trustee
Susanna Pallinder: Susanna is the ACT treasurer and sustainable transport steering group member.
Lee Paton: Lee is a retired dairy farmer with an interest in local history and wildlife. She is ACT’s Safeguarding Officer and leads the Biodiversity Group which manages ACT’s tree nursery and maintains the Community Field trees and picnic area.
Cate Ross: Cate is a professional artist and community development specialist with 30 years of experience. Her work is concentrated around social and environmental justice activism, equity and creative solution orientation.
Hala Zuluczkowska: Hala comes with a background in community development, working mainly in the voluntary sector.
Karen Slattery: Karen is an active member of Auchencairn community and passionate about engaging people to care for and connect with nature. Karen has over 14 years experience working as an Outdoor Educator and Forest School Leader and is currently studying for a Masters Degree in Environmental Management with a focus on trees and forestry.