**Stop press 29 September ** 

We arrived in Machynlleth just after 5 pm today, having been met  by a posse (well two actually) of cyclists from CAT a few miles out, which was great.  I've done just over 160 miles and fellow AECB Trustee, Peter Wilshaw, who has been with me the last couple of days has done 110.  Peter is raising money for the Nepali Childrens Trust.  A bit saddle sore, but otherwise both OK.  Although I've finished, do still sponsor me, as the need has not gone away. 

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Welcome to my Just Giving page.  This years AECB Annual Conference is rather special.  It is a conference, but it is also a celebration: we are 21 years old this year.

So I have decided to cycle to the conference in Machynlleth from my business just outside Huddersfield and use or abuse my position as Chair to raise money, and possibly awareness.

The cycle ride is about 150 miles - I haven't yet fully planned the route, but it will take about 3 days I reckon.  I enjoy cycling and last year cycled across Wales from North (Bangor) almost to the South (Hay and then Herefordshire).  So, I hope I will enjoy it, provided the weather is reasonably kind. 

However, I am cycling for several reasons:

- To raise awareness of the impact our lifestyles in developed countries are having on developing countries, and to help those countries by raising funds for a very practical charity of which I am a long time supporter: Practical Action.  Practical Action used to be the Intermediate Technology Development Group, and was founded by Fritz Schumacher to concentrate on practical and appropriate measures to aid those in the developing world.  A significant part of their work now is in helping some of the world's poorest people to mitigate the impact of climate change.  Climate change resulting of course from our own profligate and energy hungry lifestyles in the developed world.

- To highlight the AECB's commitment to the 10:10 campaign, and to encourage all members to consider their carbon footprint when deciding how to travel to the conference this year (and of course at other times!).

- To publicise the launch of the Passivhaus Trust.  The Trust,  will ensure that the Passivhaus standard is properly developed and implemented in the UK.  Building new buildings to this standard, and possibly refurbishing to the standard as well, is one of the easiest ways that our rich developed world can start to cut carbon emissions from our buildings.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to Practical Action and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

So please dig deep and donate now.

Thankyou.

Chris Herring

AECB Chair