Climate Change

Climate change is the greatest environmental challenge facing the world today, according to the Department for Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA).

What is Climate change?

Climate describes the 'normal' weather we experience over a period of time. A change in pattern to 'normal' weather predicted is climate change. Some examples being warmer winters seen over recent years and the flash floods experienced in the summer of 2007 here in the UK. As the climate changes, environmental differences are being noticed - over the last 100yrs the sea levels have risen by 10cms. In this same period the average near surface temperature has risen by 0.7c. With this increase in temperature, diseases such as malaria are predicted to gain exposure to a further 290 million people.

By analysing data from various sources such as long-term solar cycles and by the thickness of tree growth rings, weather patterns can be predicted.

The Environment Agency has concluded that climate change is a direct consequence of human activity, which can be demonstrated in many different forms. Deforestation for agriculture and building is one of those key issues, reducing the number of trees available for absorption of carbon dioxide. The second major issue is the burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, gas) and the wide spread use of petrol and diesel, which produces large amounts of carbon dioxide as a by product. In the last 200yrs, carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere have increased by 200%. In turn these increased levels of carbon dioxide act as if you were to place a blanket over the earth's surface. Some of the sun's heat is absorbed by the land and the ocean but some is trapped by the layer of gasses (mainly carbon dioxide) close to the earth's surface. These gases often referred to as greenhouse gases because they act to effectively turn the heat up.

What is a carbon footprint?

A carbon footprint is everyone's own individual measurement of how many emissions such as carbon dioxide they create. By using a carbon calculator to input usage for fuel and electricity etc, you can gain a clear indication of your own footprint and your personal contribution to climate change. After making lifestyle changes to reduce your carbon footprint you can offset the remainder through a company such as The Green Balance Uk Ltd by following the simple carbon offsetting steps. Using this credible company you have tangible evidence that each item purchased is as a result of your investment only, providing you with the peace of mind that you are able to watch and enjoy your investment grow.

Top scientists have published an open letter to make it clear that we should follow science when setting the UK Climate Change Bill, ensuring that we reduce by 80% our carbon emissions by 2050.

A single tree can absorb approximately 730 kg of carbon dioxide in it's lifetime, so its easy to recognise that tree planting is a positive eco-action.

So go on. Follow the simple steps to make a difference today. Invest in tree planting to deliver the benefits year on year to your community, the UK and the world beyond. Doing your 'bit,' following in the footsteps of others giving a helping hand to the environment. Such as english Nature and The Great Fen Project restoring 7500 acres of land, providing wildlife habitats and boosting natural flood protection. Do it today and help preserve tomorrow.