A sustainable pop-up in Parsons Green similar to London’s famous Winter Wonderland has opened for the Christmas period.
Holly Arnold, co-founder of Tipis on the Green, set up the event with her partner in her local area with the aims of balancing luxury, creativity and sustainability – even down to the compost loos.
The event is alpine themed with sustainable food and drinks options from a variety of brand partners.
Holly explained: “We build all of the walls, windows and floors ourselves in our workshop, where we can we try and use reclaimed wood.
“We also up-cycle all the barrels, ski banisters on entrance and the vintage ski memorabilia.
“Everything down to our suppliers and how we run the event has sustainability incorporated.”
The event runs from November 17 to December 22 from Wednesdays to Sundays with community mornings also available, including classes such as Pilates and visible mending clothes workshops.
The event uses renewable energy from rechargeable generators charging them once a week and the compost toilets help significantly reduce the water consumption.
Biodegradable items including containers and utensils are given to customers with the menu including ‘zero waste’ products.
Only a third of the menu contains meat encouraging customers to explore the vegetarian and vegan options whilst also partnering with Prime Time Beer, one of the most sustainable brewers in the UK.
Ten framed A4 notes are scattered around the tipis explaining different sustainable aspects of the pop-up, with QR codes for the consumer to learn more.
Arnold also explained the importance of involving the community whilst supporting independent brands.
“We want to support local businesses and charities that’s why H&F Giving is our charity partner.
“We support everyone from women in business to young mums trying to feel good through our health and wellbeing classes, it’s an array of things we’ve got going on.”
Tipis on the Green’s community mornings include talks with climate enthusiasts as well as homeless charities such as the Barons Court Project.
There is also the opportunity for local organisations to use the space for free throughout the event.
Carlos Izsak, Climate Engagement Officer from Hammersmith & Fulham Council, attended a session to inform participants about new initiatives such as the Green Investment Fund.
“Events like this educate people to see that you can still celebrate Christmas but do it in a more sustainable way, being sustainable doesn’t have to be boring,” Izsak said.
“We are handing out bulbs to encourage biodiversity, especially with bees as they pollinate about 75% of our food, without bees you wouldn’t have beans on toast.”
If you would like to visit Tipis on the Green or attend one of the community mornings, please email [email protected].
Featured image credit: Graham Turner
