25/5 Challenge - join me and take the pledge!
Posted by Stephen Timms, MP for East Ham, at 15:00, Thu 18 January 2007:
The environment is back at the top of our political agenda. In October, the Treasury published a report by Sir Nicholas Stern which stressed the need for urgent action on climate change.
His argument is twofold. First, if emissions are not cut, global temperatures are likely to rise by 2-3°C over the next 50 years. Melting glaciers will increase flooding, and rising sea levels could leave 200 million people without homes. Up to 40% of species could face extinction. The economy could be plunged into a disastrous worldwide depression.
But, second, we are in time to do something. Its not too late. If ambitious, co-ordinated, worldwide action is put in place urgently, at a far lower cost to the economy, then the worst of these problems can be averted.
That's why I am launching my 25/5 Challenge in partnership with Newham We Are What We Do. I have signed up to reduce my carbon emissions by 25% by 2012, and I am asking my constituents to join me in making the pledge. There are many practical steps each of us can take, such as unplugging appliances when they are not in use, insulating our homes and turning down the central heating thermostat. And if we all do them, we can make a big contribution to the changes we need.
On my website, at www.stephentimms.org.uk/255challenge, you will find advice on reducing carbon emissions, and you will also be able to sign the 25/5 pledge. Once you've signed up, I will keep you informed about how the campaign is going, and let you have further ideas which others have suggested on reducing your carbon footprint. And don't forget, on this topic or any other, you can always telephone me on 020 7219 4000 to arrange an appointment at one of my advice surgeries.
UK emissions account for around 2% of the global total. For the other 98%, serious action at international level is required to solve the problem. I support the Stern review's call for all of the world's governments to work together to safeguard the environment. I am pleased how big an impact the report has had around the world. I believe the key will be a worldwide system for trading carbon emissions, of the kind already being put in place in Europe.
But this does not mean that individuals in Newham are powerless to make a difference. Did you know that 85% of the energy used by video recorders is consumed while they are on stand-by? By changing how we live, we can all help tackle climate change, and contribute to making sure that future generations can enjoy our planet, as we do.
The science of climate change is now beyond dispute. Urgent action is needed - in each of our homes as well as internationally. Have a very happy new year - and why not join me, and make action on climate change your personal "new year's resolution"?
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