THE Bury Environment Forum has outlined its proposals to combat climate change and promote a healthier environment.

The group, made up of Bury councillors, council officers and members of the public, held a meeting at Bury Town Hall to set out ideas for tackling climate change following a Government call for comments to combat the build-up of greenhouse gases.

The report, which highlights the need for less wasteful use of energy, includes the compulsory labelling of all air flight tickets and holiday adverts showing the estimated carbon dioxide emissions per person and to encourage the use of local production and supply of goods where possible to reduce the amount of miles travelled.

David Archer, chairman of the forums resource issues group, said: "A key factor is the aviation industry which the Government is encouraging to expand despite enormous damage being done by aircraft. We are asking for a policy of steadily reducing the number of flights to and from the UK."

The report also suggests conducting research into the need for personal travel and distances travelled, improving public transport, removing VAT on energy-saving products and stopping businesses leaving lights or appliances on 24 hours a day when not needed.

Mr Archer added: "We have sent the Government some challenging ideas, including the labelling of many products to show how much climate-damaging carbon dioxide gas is emitted in production, transportation and use."

He concluded that despite some progress being made, there is still a lot to be done and the forum plays a key role in gathering opinions and promoting schemes to reduce the threat posed by climate change.

To find out more about the Bury Environmental Forum, contact Alan Darnell by calling 0161 253 6020.