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TIDAL WAVE OF SW ACTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE REVEALED BY NEW SURVEY |
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 19th October 2007
A new South West survey last month reveals a massive surge in community activity
across the region to meet the challenge of climate change. As South
West MP's prepare to debate the Climate Change Bill a clear message to
take action on climate change comes from a new and growing movement in
their constituencies.
The survey, conducted by Friends of the Earth with funding from the South West Regional Assembly in September 2007, shows that there are well over 260 community groups in the region who are tackling climate change and an astonishing 103 groups have formed since 2005. These groups involve over 25,000 people, who give their time and effort almost entirely voluntarily. While some of these are branches of national organisations, more are independent groups.
Bryan Meloy, from the Gloucester Green party who were listed in the survey and supported the recent 'Camp Hope' against plans for an expansion of CO2 emissions at Staverton Airport, said: "This survey shows there is much going on across the South West: there is a huge public appetite for positive action on climate change. Let us hope this encourages all South West politicians to show leadership and put their weight behind a strong Climate Bill. The proposed 60 per cent target is dangerously unambitious and will do little to avert the crisis facing us. Our government must step-up to the challenge of climate change."
Cathy Green from One Tonners, based in Cheltenham was also listed. She said: "Our Governments is not taking action on Climate Change with anything like the speed needed. One Tonners was formed to take individual actions to show how easy it is to live sustainably in the UK without reducing your standard of living. We are aiming to be a 'ONE TONNER' and cut our personal carbon emissions by 80% from the average 5 tonnes a year to one Tonne - for more info see our blog: <http://theonetonners.blogspot.com>"
Roger James for Oxfam SW said: "This massive grassroots rise of local action is very welcome for it is the richest countries which have predominantly caused the increase of carbon in the atmosphere, yet it is the world's poorest nations who will suffer the most catastrophic effects. Such concern is vital, this is not only an environmental issue, but is also an issue of global justice and humanity. Poverty cannot be fought without tackling climate change."
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