These photos capture the moment when winter begins to give way. Sunlight returning, buds forming and the first signs of life pushing through. A quiet transition happening all around us. It is that in between time. Not quite winter, not quite spring but full of small changes that are easy to miss unless you are looking for them.

Floral colour will make a welcome return to the heart of Guildford this spring, thanks to three local charities: Zero Carbon Guildford, Guildford in Bloom and Experience Guildford adopting Guildford Borough Council’s long redundant on-street planters. Following a cessation period of two years, nature and seasonal blooms will once again enrich the lives of both residents, regular and first-time visitors.

What should Guildford look like in 20 years? At a recent Local Plan workshop, residents shared ideas on housing, transport, nature and community life. From restoring the River Wey to improving infrastructure, the session revealed both ambition and frustration, and a clear need for more diverse voices in shaping the town’s future.

We’re excited to welcome Alex as our new River Community & Communications Coordinator, supporting community-led action across the River Wey. From water testing and lab sessions to sponsoring sites and volunteering, there are lots of ways to get involved and help protect our local waterways.

Big changes are coming to how Surrey is run. In May 2026, new councils will be elected that will shape decisions on energy, transport, nature and local services for years to come. Our Future Surrey is a community-led campaign asking candidates to support practical action that cuts bills, protects nature and strengthens communities. From April, you’ll be able to contact candidates and ask them to sign the pledge.

With another gas crisis looming, heat pump users may be better shielded from rising energy costs than those relying on oil or gas. But who are they? More common than you might think, they blend into everyday life, quietly benefiting from cleaner, more stable energy. As prices fluctuate, curiosity is growing. Now could be the moment to find out how heat pumps work, what they cost, and whether switching could make sense for your home.

Wednesday has become ‘Cow Day’ for volunteer Lucy, as she heads to Pewley Meadows to check on the Belted Galloways and sheep. From icy troughs to skylarks overhead, it’s a midweek ritual that brings her closer to nature and the vital role grazing plays in restoring this special landscape.

We’re looking for an organised and dynamic person to join the Home Energy Advice Team, supporting Surrey residents to make their homes warm and comfortable, save money on energy bills and reduce carbon.

Landscape photography is not just about epic locations, nor does it need dramatic weather. The natural environment is there all the time and even in dull weather, in familiar locations, there are still new angles and insights to be had. Sometimes you need to slow down and look around to see them. Even on a grey winter day a walk in the woods can still provide some eye-catching sights. Damp moss almost seems to glow in the low light levels.

In partnership with RECLAIM Network, ZERO is pleased to offer a series of free online courses exploring how Green, Blue and Grey Infrastructure (GBGI)  can help address key environmental and social challenges in towns and cities. The courses are short, practical, and designed to bridge theory and real-world application. Each unit takes around 45–50 minutes , can be completed at your own pace, and includes a certificate of completion . This is a great way to expand your knowle

With the Zero Carbon Guildford AGM taking place on 25 March, we’re opening the window to join our Board of Trustees. Becoming a trustee is a powerful way to shape the future of ZERO and support practical climate action in Guildford. You don’t need previous trustee or board experience — support is provided. This year we’re welcoming new trustees, including an HR Trustee. Find out how to apply and get involved

Living near The Mount for years, I only discovered its magic during lockdown and later through daily dog walks. Joining the volunteer group opened my eyes to rare orchids, butterflies, wildlife tracks and tiny plants I’d never noticed before. From spotting Small Blues to helping clear scrub, getting involved has made this familiar hillside feel extraordinary - a place full of life, waiting to be seen.

A sustainable gift doesn’t have to be complicated. From zero-waste starter kits and upcycled jewellery to potted plants, digital vouchers and charitable donations, there are thoughtful ways to show you care while reducing waste. This year, choose gifts that support people and the planet - and make your celebrations a little greener.

Christmas dinner is a festive highlight, but it’s also a major source of waste, with 42 million dishes thrown away in the UK each year. A Greener Christmas Dinner doesn’t mean giving up tradition; it’s about small, mindful choices. By planning portions, choosing seasonal produce and reducing leftovers, you can enjoy a joyful feast that’s kinder to the planet.

The ZERO Podcast was born from conversations - the kind that happen in passing, over projects, between volunteers who care deeply about their community. After seeing just how much passion, dedication and impact goes into every initiative at ZERO, volunteer Ruo Ow set out to capture these stories and share them more widely. The result is a new podcast series that brings the voices behind ZERO to the mic, starting with Episode 1: The Story of Zero.

Role description and how to apply to be the River Community & Communications Coordinator

Role description and how to apply to be the Business Energy Assessor for Zero Carbon Guildford's new 'Energy Check' project.

Role description and how to apply to be our new Operations Coordinator.

Last Sunday’s Apple Pressing at Rosamund Community Garden was our biggest yet! 🌞 With record crowds, homemade soups and cakes selling out, Mary Makes Jam raising funds for charity, and children’s nature fun from Earthlings, the day was full of energy. Our amazing DofE students kept the presses busy all afternoon. Early signs suggest we’ve doubled last year’s takings, helping fund future garden projects. 🍏

On Friday 19th September, ZERO went batty with a sell-out Bat Walk & Talk along the River Wey. Led by Surrey Bat Group with Guildford Walk Fest, participants discovered the UK’s 18 bat species, tried bat detectors, and spotted Common & Soprano Pipistrelles plus Daubenton’s bats skimming the water at dusk. With fascinating insights into bat biology, conservation, and echolocation, it was an inspiring evening rounded off with stories in a riverside pub. 🌙🦇