Robert Brown MSP backs "Save your 20% "campaign

12.09.25pm GMT Thu 2nd Nov 2006

Make a difference-use energy saving light bulbs

Glasgow Liberal Democrat MSP Robert Brown has urged local people to reduce the amount of energy they consume on a daily basis. Mr. Brown joined the Energy Saving Trust's "Commit to Save Your 20%" campaign which is being launched as part of the 10th annual Energy Saving Week.

Robert Brown said:

"Domestic energy use accounts for almost 50% of carbon dioxide emissions but collectively we can make a real difference. If we all saved 20% of the energy we use every day we can help prevent climate change. Energy Saving Week 2006 has highlighted the fact that consumers are able to make an enormous difference both to the environment and to their energy bills through everyday, 'normal' actions."

There are a whole range of energy saving measures that can be undertaken, many of which are simple and 'low cost, no cost'. The following is a list of the 10 commitments that the Energy Saving Trust are encouraging householders to make:

• When making hot drinks only boil as much water as you need.

• Turn down thermostat by 1° C.

• Switch off appliances and not leave them on standby.

• Install cavity wall insulation.

• Top up your loft insulation to 270mm.

• Replace 3 light bulbs with Energy Saving Recommended ones.

• Install a condensing boiler.

• Buy Energy Saving Recommended appliances.

• Wash laundry at 30° C.

• Leave your car at home for short journeys.

For larger measures such as insulating your home or installing microgeneration the Energy Saving Trust provides impartial advice, grants and information to help you implement your commitment.

Robert Brown said:

"Climate change is a growing challenge. We can all help prevent climate change by committing to save 20% of the energy we use every day. It is a win-win situation because it also saves people money at a time when fuel bills are rising."

Mr Brown recently called for local school children to become involved in energy saving at a local level. Renewable energy and micropower have been long seen by the Liberal Democrats as a major part of the solution to climate change.

Mike Thornton, Head of the Energy Saving Trust in Scotland said, "We are calling on the nation to undertake a series of daily habit changing actions during Energy Saving Week 2006. The aim is to galvanise the nation into breaking their bad energy habits one by one, which will not only help prevent the damaging effects of climate change but also will help reduce individual energy costs. To find out how you can commit to save your 20%, visit www.est.org.uk/commit."

ENDS

Notes

For ideas on how to 'Save your 20%' during Energy Saving Week and throughout the year, call 0800 915 7722 or log onto www.est.org.uk/commit.

About the Energy Saving Trust:

The Energy Saving Trust is one of the UK's leading organisations set up to address the damaging effects of climate change. They aim to cut carbon dioxide emissions - the main greenhouse gas causing climate change - by promoting the sustainable and efficient use of energy. The Energy Saving Trust is an independent, non-profit making organisation and acts as a bridge from government to consumers, trade, businesses, local authorities and the energy market. They provide impartial information and advice and have a network of advice centres in the UK specifically designed to help consumers take action to save energy.