Twitter is one of the most popular websites in the country with over three million users nationwide and, after consulting with local authorities who are getting closer to residents through the site, Sandwell Homes decided it was time to set-up a page of its own and give residents a voice.

As the highest ranked social landlord in this year’s Sunday Times Green List, Sandwell Homes is building on its success in making the company more environmentally friendly by turning its attention to tenants and residents. A campaign to find volunteer ‘eco-champions’ earlier in the year resulted in a number of families and individuals signing up to take various challenges to save energy, reduce waste and recycle more.

The experiment has been set-up to benefit tenants as they can make genuine financial savings and reduce the amount they spend on food and consumable goods each year. It is hoped that the eco-champions will set an example to other tenants and start helping to spread the word borough-wide as their experiences are publicised over the coming months.

With a growing number of residents also attending a regular environmental discussion group, hosted by Sandwell Homes, it is hoped that the Twitter site will enable them and the eco-champions to continue discussions, share advice, and bring more people on board.

Marketing officer for Sandwell Homes, Andrew Walton, said: “We want to encourage residents from all over the borough, young or old, to sign up and get talking about green issues.

“Sandwell Homes now provides every employee with environmental training, uses green electricity, and is EMAS certified – recognising that we make a strong commitment to the environment and to improving our economic competitiveness. There is an opportunity to share our knowledge with tenants, and also for them to share knowledge, discuss green issues and ask questions.”

Anyone interested in following Sandwell Homes can sign up at www.twitter.com/sandwellhomes.