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Last Updated: Thursday, 11 October 2007, 06:09 GMT 07:09 UK
Campaigners' carbon deadline plea
Jane Davidson, Minister for the Environment, Sustainability and Housing Photo: WWF Cymru
Jane Davidson AM is expected at the launch of 'One Planet Wales'
People in Wales are being asked to make eco-friendly food, housing and travel choices to help cut carbon emissions.

According to a wildlife charity, for Wales to exist within its fair share of the earth's resources its ecological footprint must be cut by 75% by 2050.

But if things continue as they are Wales' footprint will increase by 30%, WWF Cymru has warned.

It is launching a campaign targeting individuals, businesses and policy makers to make a greener Wales.

Morgan Parry, Head of WWF Cymru said: "It's getting away from the idea it's somebody else's problem.

"All the different players have got to do their bit."

Woman selling vegetables Photo: WWF Cymru
Consumers are being urged to buy organic and locally sourced food

Wales' ecological footprint - which measures the resources we use for our economy and lifestyles - is largely made up of transport 17%, housing 21% and food 25%.

Behind the campaign entitled "One Planet Wales" is a report by academics at the University of Manchester.

Mr Parry said: "It leaves little doubt about the need to take action now, and the many challenges and opportunities ahead for change.

"One thing is clear from the report: it will take collective action to achieve the changes that are necessary to deliver a One Planet Wales, collective action by the Welsh Assembly Government, local authorities, businesses, communities and individuals.

"We all have an essential role to play."

Researchers said that if everyone in the world used natural resources and generated carbon dioxide at the same rate as Wales, it would take three planets to support us.

Practical recommendations in the report include low-carbon sustainable buildings, standards for sustainable healthy food, and high-quality public transport.

Report author Joe Ravetz from the centre for urban ecology at the University of Manchester, said: "This report demonstrates that it is achievable for Wales to move towards a One Planet Wales country.

"To achieve this, Wales must organise an economy which thrives on one planet, rather than squandering the current resources of three planets."

The campaign will be launched at the Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff on Thursday, with 80 of Wales' leading decision makers expected to attend.

SEE ALSO
Planners reject eco-village bid
09 Oct 07 |  South West Wales
Hydrogen powered bus is showcased
25 Sep 07 |  South East Wales
Urdd youth festival 'goes green'
28 May 07 |  South West Wales

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