‘Lark the Shark’ swims to Redbridge to inspire green action in the borough

An eco-minded Redbridge school student who published a book about a friendly litter clearing shark is hoping his story will inspire people to start the New Year by joining green initiatives in the borough.

Henry Newman from Clore Tikva Primary School, in Ilford, co-wrote ‘Lark the Shark’ with his mum Natalie, after being inspired by his school homework about pollution.

The book tells the tale of a friendly shark who cleans up litter from the sea and promotes environmental awareness.

Henry aged 9, is now encouraging people to start the New Year with a pledge to protect the environment including getting involved in local initiatives from community litter picks to reducing the use of single use plastic, to create a cleaner and greener Redbridge.

The young author and avid recycler said: “I wrote the book to highlight pollution in the sea, but whether it’s on land or water – there are lots of things we can all do to look after the environment. Even things like making sure we recycle as much as we can makes a difference.
“If you’re stuck for ideas, you can find out about different ways to help the environment by searching online. The council website also has lots of information and ideas to help you, and can tell you about green activities.”

Cabinet Member for Environment and Civic Pride Cllr Jo Blackman said: “It’s fantastic to see Redbridge school children getting involved in raising environmental awareness, and Henry is absolutely right – there’s lots of advice and information on our website to help residents become more eco-minded, from tips on reducing waste and recycling, to reducing your carbon footprint on the borough.

“We’re kick-starting 2022 with many green initiatives and activities in Redbridge to help businesses and communities respond to the climate emergency. Together, we can make Redbridge a cleaner, greener and healthier borough for everyone.”

• Find out what Redbridge Council is doing to tackle Climate Change in the borough, and how you can get involved: https://www.redbridge.gov.uk/about-the-council/climate-change/

• Get tips and advice on reducing, re-using and recycling to help protect the environment: https://www.redbridge.gov.uk/our-streets/

‘Lark the Shark’ is available for loan from Redbridge Libraries, as well as available to buy across several stores including Amazon and Waterstones.