Member Article

ClimateDome savings 'not just hot air'

Since the launch of the ClimateDome initiative in January over 1,500 people in the North East have pledged to reduce their carbon footprint, with their pledges saving 338 tonnes in carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. Increases in CO2 are largely responsible for global warming and climate change, according to scientists.

The six-metre inflatable ClimateDome is the first project of its kind anywhere in the world, and makes the North East region a pioneer in reducing its impact on climate change. Being more energy efficient can save money too - as these pledges are followed, an average household could save up £300 a year on fuel bills.

Mike Thomas, project manager, said: “Visitors are asked to fill out a pledge card - saying how they’ll make small changes to cut carbon emissions – such as not leaving their TV on standby, or part-filling kettles. The quantity of savings pledged so far is a fantastic result. It shows that we are already making people think about how small changes to their everyday lives can help protect their region in years to come. “What’s more, this is just the start. Over the next 13 months, ClimateDome will tour shopping centres, shows and festivals, sporting events and schools, encouraging thousands more visitors to make a pledge and make a difference.”

The next stop for the ClimateDome is The Gates shopping centre in Durham today, followed by The Bridges in Sunderland on 12 March.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .