Emission Impossible?

'Right, you're nicked for leaving a light on in an empty room between the hours of 7pm and 8pm last Monday."

Sound odd? Well, not to 39 per cent of Brits who believe we could be hearing these words barked by a Carbon Copper in the not too distant future. According to a recent survey by the Energy Saving Trust, four out of 10 people believe a Carbon Police force will be introduced to enforce energy efficient measures as the government strives to cut CO2 emissions by 80 per cent in the next 42 years. The survey also revealed the likelihood of energy rehab classes being launched for 'energy addicts'. This is obviously good news for all those hooked on burning fossil fuels and rumour has it we're only one step away from a methadone-style substitute to wean carbon crack heads off boiler abuse.

Joking aside, although this seems ludicrous, it's more probable than you can imagine. The UK is currently on course to reduce CO2 emissions by 18 per cent within the next 12 years, which represents a significant shortfall for hitting the 2050 target of 80 per cent. Given the global weight behind the Kyoto Protocol, the government needs to seriously up its game to bring the UK in line with world emissions targets.

We've already seen the introduction of congestion charging, hikes in road taxes for high emission vehicles and energy performance certificates for commercial and residential buildings. The country's first 'green' Budget is due next year and it's almost certain that more environmental taxes will be rolled out to encourage energy efficiency and recycling. Somebody will be needed to manage the public's participation in payment of said taxes and initiatives - cue the boys in blue, or will that be green?

So, what can we do to avoid spending time in the slammer for committing carbon crimes? Quite simply, support the cause and demand more from the government.

If everyone took simple, no-cost actions such as reusing carrier bags, switching -off appliances not in use and washing at 30 degrees, we'd take a giant step towards cutting carbon emissions and provide the government with less reason to tax, tax, tax.

Similarly, the government is trialling energy efficient technologies and initiatives such as smart meters, but is being too slow to act. If more people voiced their opinions and questioned the government, they'd have little choice but to turn words into actions.

And with that in mind, I urge you to read the next environmental article you see in the news and take an interest in how you can help save yourself from an energy-obsessed future.

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