Bruce calls for more action on energy efficiency from households and Government

6.10.12pm UTC (GMT +0000) Tue 5th Jun 2007

Tuesday 5th June is World Environment Day 2007

On World Environment Day 2007 (5th June) Gordon MP Malcolm Bruce has pledged to consider the environment and is encouraging his constituents to do likewise.

World Environment Day is a United Nations initiative which aims to raise awareness of global environmental issues and the impact of climate change.

Commenting, Mr Bruce who is the Vice-Chair of GLOBE UK which facilitates an international dialogue on climate change said:

"Climate change is clearly a global issue, but everybody should feel involved by doing their bit to consider their own energy use at home. Small actions can, when taken together, make a big difference.

"With over one quarter of the UK's carbon emissions come from heating, lighting and running power supplies in our homes, small changes, such as not leaving the television on stand-by or overfilling the kettle, can make a significant difference in a household's energy use. Taken across the country, the UK's levels of carbon emissions could be drastically cut as well as saving households money."

"In addition to looking at my own energy use at home, I pledge to challenge the Government to take the lead by calling for stronger and more co-ordinated legislation. The technology exists to allow house holders to make substantial efforts in energy efficiency but the Government has failed to provide an adequate solution."

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

Methods in which people can save energy and reduce their 'carbon footprint' include:

1. Use energy-saving light bulbs

2. Turn down the thermostat by one degree

3. Take a shower instead of a bath

4. Put a water saving device in your toilet

5. Turn the tap off when brushing your teeth

6. Use a reusable bag, rather than plastic carriers

7. Dry washing by hanging it, rather than tumble drying

8. Wash clothes at lower temperatures

9. Draught-proof windows and doors

10. Switch off TVs and other electrical appliances at the mains rather than leaving them on stand-by, and unplug mobile phone chargers when they are not in use