Could Britons do more to go green?

Over half of respondents to a recent government survey believe that climate change will not affect them in their lifetime.

The poll by the Department of Energy and Climate Change has revealed that 52 per cent of Britons do not feel that the effects of climate change will impact on their lives, although 18 per cent think that it will take effect during their children's lifetime.

With this in mind, is there more people could be doing to lower their own impact on the planet?

Doing it for the kids

Three-quarters of respondents to the poll claim that their children are their greatest motivation for going green and that they would make changes to their own lifestyles now in order to protect the planet for future generations.

Commenting on the figures, energy and climate change minister Joan Ruddock said: "The results show that people don't realise that climate change is already underway and could have very severe consequences for their children's lives."

She added: "With over 40 per cent of the UK's carbon emissions a result of personal choices, there is huge potential for individual behaviour change to lower emissions, save money and put the UK in a stronger position going into the Copenhagen summit negotiations."

Reversing climate change with energy efficiency

So what can households do to limit their own carbon emissions?

Energy efficiency may be a good place to start and could also help people save money through cheaper electricity and gas bills.

The Energy Saving Trust offers a number of hints and tips on how to increase energy efficiency, including by making sure televisions, computers and other electric gadgets are switched off, rather than being left on stand-by, when not in use.

Furthermore, improving insulation so that central heating does not have to run on such a high temperature can also reduce the carbon footprint of a property.

By taking these steps, not only will Britons be able to save money through cheaper gas and electricity bills, they could also help to secure the future of the planet for future generations.