Support the Decarbonisation of the warehouse
The Warehouse in Digbeth is more than just a building – it’s the heart of Birmingham Friends of the Earth (BFoE) and home to a vibrant community of purpose-driven enterprises and grassroots activism. Since the 1970s, it has supported people, the planet and community action, becoming a symbol of sustainability, collaboration, and environmental justice.
Today, The Warehouse hosts Birmingham Friends of the Earth, our very own Birmingham Race Impact Group (BRIG) Cafe, Sprocket Cycles, Voce Books, and a wildlife garden. It’s where ideas grow and communities unite to tackle the social and environmental challenges we all face.
But while The Warehouse is full of energy, the building itself is not energy efficient. That’s why BFoE is launching a new Community Share Offer to raise up to £46,660 for critical energy-saving improvements – and we’re proud to support it.
By upgrading the building’s insulation, solar capacity, heating systems and windows, we can cut carbon emissions by up to 2,100kg per year, reduce energy bills by up to £3,660 annually, and prepare for a full switch to renewable heating. These changes will help future-proof the space and ensure it remains a safe, warm and inspiring home for campaigners, creators, and community groups for years to come.
The Share Offer is backed by Cooperatives UK’s Energy Sharematch scheme, which means 33% of the total raised will be matched through grant funding – so every pound you invest goes even further. Investors will receive 2–3% annual interest and can withdraw their shares, subject to availability of funds.
The minimum fundraising target is £11,100 (boosted to £16,700 with match funding) – enough to add wall insulation and a solar battery. The maximum target of £31,262 (boosted to £46,660) will allow BFoE to also install extra solar panels, energy-efficient windows, and prepare for an Air Source Heat Pump.
Why we’re supporting this project
As the Birmingham Race Impact Group, we know that climate justice and racial justice go hand in hand. Communities of colour are often disproportionately affected by environmental issues – from poor housing to high energy costs. That’s why we’ve based our café at The Warehouse – a space that embodies the kind of intersectional, community-powered change we believe in.
We’re proud to support Birmingham Friends of the Earth and their Little Green Community at The Warehouse, a beacon of grassroots climate activism. They are a vital part of keeping climate change on the city’s agenda, offering a wide range of workshops and events that help Birmingham work towards a greener, fairer future.
This project – a community share offer – aims to raise £50,000 to further improve The Warehouse’s energy efficiency through building renovations and the installation of solar PV. It’s a chance to make the space even more sustainable and to strengthen the foundations for community groups like ours to thrive.
Even better, every £1 invested unlocks 50p in match funding through the Co-operatives UK Energy Sharematch scheme – so the more we raise, the more impact we can have in reducing our collective carbon footprint.
You can invest from as little as £50 up to £10,000 and become a member of the Society. Your investment isn’t just financial – it’s a statement of belief in a better Birmingham and beyond.
We’re using our Café platform to shine a light on organisations that don’t just talk about change, but live it. Join us in investing in a future that’s greener, fairer, and shaped by the communities most affected.
Join us in investing in a better future for Birmingham – and beyond.
There’s no Planet B.
Click here to donate.
