WICKLOW GREENS WELCOME RATIFICATION OF CLIMATE CHANGE TREATY

Emissions from car exhausts, electricity generation, agricultural practices and other sources are causing the earth to become warmer and warmer, leading to a changing climate, more extreme weather and rising sea levels as polar ice melts. Under the Kyoto agreement Ireland must limit increases in greenhouse gas emissions from 1990 levels to 13%. However emissions have already increased by 24% and seem set to increase further. If Ireland fails to meet its obligations under the Kyoto protocol the country could be subject to substantial fines.

Welcoming the ratification of the agreement, Wicklow Green Party councillor Deirdre de Burca called on Wicklow County Council to consider the greenhouse gas emissions in all of its activities. "It is clear that substantial changes must be made in the way that we live", said councillor de Burca. "The way we work, the way we travel, the way we build our homes, the way our food is grown - all will have to change if the worst effects of climate change are to be avoided", she said. "There is much that can be done at local level to help this process".

"Developments such as the Arklow Banks wind farm are welcome steps towards a sustainable future", said councillor de Burca. "However there is much, much more that can be done - and even simple steps can make a difference". "How can we expect people to leave their cars at home when there are not even bus shelters for those who use public transportation?", she asked. "How can we discourage unnecessary travel when large housing estates are being built without even a post box?".

The guide to Ireland's National Climate Change strategy is available on the Wicklow Green Party website at www.wicklowgreens.org

For further information please contact Deirdre de Burca on 086 8061450 or email deburca@wicklowgreens.org.