Government announces measures to help reduce environmental impact in homes and communities.
Environment Secretary Hilary Benn has announced a package of measures to tackle the fight against climate change, which has placed the emphasis on Britain's homeowners becoming greener.

The measures comprise a range of initiatives to enable people to make 'steps' in their everyday lives that will contribute positively to green lifestyles.

"This is essential because if we are to stop climate change's worst consequences, changes need to be made in people's kitchens, living rooms and communities," he said.

The package includes:

1. Guidance from the Energy Savings Trust via a CO2 Advice Line, so that anyone has access to a one-stop shop for free advice on how to cut their carbon footprint.

The Government is providing the Energy Saving Trust with more than £100 million over the next three years to deliver a programme for green homes.

2. A Green Neighbourhoods initiative will give a green makeover to up to 100 neighbourhoods in England with an aim to reduce their carbon footprints by more than 60%.

3. The CERT (Carbon Emissions Reduction Target) scheme, which doubles previous obligations on energy companies to help people make their homes more energy efficient and reduce household emissions.

Philip Sellwood, chief executive of the Energy Saving Trust, said: "Our research shows people want comprehensive advice on all the different ways they can green their homes."

Sustainable

Separately, B&Q has announced it will be stocking the BioRegional Charcoal Company's bbq charcoal for green-minded bbq-ers.

On a corporate level the retailer's store in Halifax, Yorkshire, has been fitted with solar panels on the roof to provide power for the offices, and an underground tank to collect rainwater.

The move follows B&Q signing a three-year partnership with sustainability experts BioRegional to become a One Planet Living Business.

B&Q has signed up to ten commitments, one of which is a water saving initiative.