From Liz Waugh, Exeter 383262, April 03, 2007

A NEW campaign to urge Devon residents to make a 'climate change for the better' has been launched by Devon County Council as part of the drive to make Devon 'England's greenest county.'

'Do it for Devon' is the headline theme for the county wide campaign, aimed at reducing domestic emissions which account for a third of Devon's total carbon emissions.

A householder's guide has been produced with practical hints and tips on reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions. It shows how much money individual households can save as a result of a few simple lifestyle changes, and the cumulative impact that can have on the county's overall CO₂ emissions.

The campaign will also feature TV and cinema advertising, carbon footprint pledge packs for schools and families, with competitions to win prizes donated by Bikeshed, and Devon Association of Tourist Attractions.

A community roadshow will visit venues across Devon with resident experts on subjects ranging from composting to cycling. Tour dates are published on the County Council's website.

5,000 low energy lightbulbs, donated by EDF as part of its energy efficiency programme, are also being given away, which will entirely offset both the cost and the carbon emissions of the campaign.

Council Leader Brian Greenslade explained: "The reality of climate change is no longer in doubt - the question now is what we can do about it. Our aim for this campaign is not just to raise awareness of the issue, but also to provide practical and simple ideas that residents and visitors can use or pledge to 'do it for Devon!'

"We commissioned research into the subject, and it showed a real appetite for more information on climate change. People wanted a household guide they could keep and refer to, and information through the media. We are delivering these guides to every home in the county so, regardless of where people live, there will always be information close at hand.

"This matters to all of us. We cannot leave it to someone else. If we all make a few changes, we can make a real reduction in emissions and make Devon England's greenest county.

"People are concerned about the future of our planet and want to help. To be successful in responding to this we need to make it easy and sensible to reduce energy consumption. Our guide does this. It shows how to save energy and save money, so let's do it for Devon!"

The Householders' Guide will be distributed across Devon during April and May whilst the TV and media campaigns are launched from this week onwards.

NOTES TO EDITORS:

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