You are here:

World Environment Day

ACT ON CO2 logoWorld Environment Day, celebrated each year on 5 June, is an initiative of the United Nations Environment Programme which aims to raise worldwide awareness of the environment.

The theme in 2008 focuses on moving towards a low carbon economy, complementing Defra’s ACT ON CO2 campaign which encourages behavioural change and increased understanding of the link between CO2 emissions and climate change.

Part of the campaign, the ACT ON CO2 calculator, helps people to work out and reduce their carbon footprint. Today, coinciding with World Environment Day, Defra has announced that the calculator has received its one millionth unique visitor.

Launched last summer, the calculator enables people to reliably calculate their carbon footprint from home energy, appliances and transport. It then develops a personalised action plan for users, with practical steps they can take to cut their emissions.

Climate Change Minister, Joan Ruddock, said:

 “A significant part of the fight against climate change is about the action we can take as individuals. On World Environment Day it is really encouraging that so many people are deciding to ACT ON CO2 to help the environment. Our calculator, www.direct.gov.uk/actonco2, has received a million visitors in a year.”

Further information

Page published: 6 June 2008