Council in climate change action

Greenhouse gases are known to contribute towards climate change

The residents of Brighton and Hove are to get a say on the Sussex council's Climate Change Action Plan.

The five-point plan illustrates its long term commitment towards a sustainable future for the community.

People have until August to comment on issues which include a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, and a change of attitude to renewable energy.

Council leader Simon Burgess said the aim was to prepare the city for the impacts of climate change.

'Essential goals'

He said as well as drawing public attention to it, the action plan would show how the council was committed to leading the way on reducing carbon-dioxide emissions.

He cited the current water shortage as just one indication of the level of climate change already being experienced.

"To prevent any further dramatic changes we must act now by serious investment in renewable energy and alternative forms of transport.

"We must increase our rate of re-use and recycling, and above all we must bring about a change in behaviour, which means educating our children, and re-educating ourselves to lead sustainable lifestyles.

"The Action Plan provides a framework to help all of us achieve these essential goals," he explained.

Climate champion

The start of the public consultation comes a day after a 14-year-old boy from Hove went to Downing Street after being named Climate Change Champion for the South East.

Jordan Stephens was one of nine UK champions, chosen from more than 600 children, who met Tony Blair on Thursday.

He was awarded the regional title after his school entered his radio show, about global warming and its risks, into a national competition.

The teenager said his mission was to encourage his friends to change their bad habits, if not for their sake then for the generations to come.