CO2 calculator hits one million

The government's CO2 calculator, which helps people calculate their carbon footprint, has received its one millionth unique visitor according to the Department for Environment, Food And Rural Affairs (Defra). The milestone coincides with World Environment Day, which takes place every year on 5 June and aims to raise awareness on environmental issues. The CO2 calculator was set up last summer to enable people to work out their carbon footprint from home energy, appliances and transport. With this information a personalised action plan outlining practical steps to help cut emissions is drawn up for each surfer. Climate Change Minister, Joan Ruddock, said: "On World Environment Day it is really encouraging that so many people are deciding to Act on CO2 to help the environment." Ruddock is attending the Built Environment Climate Change Festival in Birmingham ahead of the city's launch of a new climate change strategy to become a truly low-carbon city. Environment Minister, Phil Woolas, highlighted the role of innovation in tackling climate change. "Technical innovation is the key to tackling climate change, and Britain has the talent and the vision to provide that innovation," he said. http://actonco2.direct.gov.uk www.climatechangefestival.org.uk