National Park Authority pledge to cut carbon emissions

The New Forest National Park Authority has signed up to the 10:10 campaign that encourages everyone to reduce their carbon emissions by 10 per cent in 2010.

The Authority, which employs over 70 eco-conscious staff, already has an environmental policy that promotes composting and recycling and reducing energy consumption and waste.  It also endorsed the Nottingham Declaration, a voluntary agreement by local authorities to reduce their contribution to climate change.  

‘Ten per cent is achievable and is a realistic target for anyone to aim for – in fact the first 10 per cent is the easiest,’ said Amy Rawlins, the Authority’s Climate Change Officer.  ‘It is all about motivating people to change their behaviour and the Authority is developing an opt-in incentive scheme for those staff wanting to show their commitment to the 10:10 target.’

Ms Rawlins explained that a travel plan has been drawn up to help staff reduce their commuter mileage, which accounted for 57 per cent of the Authority’s 210 tons of carbon emissions in 2008-09.  

‘The travel plan encourages things like car sharing, home working and condensed working hours,’ she continued.  ‘The Authority will also offer advice to staff on driving more efficiently and is considering buying a fuel-efficient pool car to reduce emissions from business travel.’

Cutting gas and electricity consumption by 10 per cent could save the Authority over £1,000 a year in addition to helping meet the carbon emissions target.  ‘Simple measures such as installing sensors for lighting in low movement areas, monitoring energy use and adjusting the timing on the heating system can add up and make a significant difference,’ Ms Rawlins stated.

She is urging local residents and organisations to find out more about 10:10 at the website 1010uk.org.  Advice on reducing carbon emissions is also available at ActOnCO2 (actonco2.direct.gov.uk)   and energysavingtrust.org.uk.

For more information on what else the Authority is doing to tackle climate change visit www.newforestnpa.gov.uk/climate_change

Media Contact:
Karen Evans, Communications Officer, New Forest National Park Authority
Tel: 01590 646650
Email: karen.evans@newforestnpa.gov.uk