The challenge facing the world through global warming has recently been summarized in a UN report. This report was discussed by Rotary International leaders in Great Britain and Ireland this week and it was agreed that Rotarians should take a lead on this important issue.

President Peter Offer said " We can no longer afford to view global warming as a political issue - rather, it is the biggest moral challenge facing our global civilization. As the leading international humanitarian organisation it is essential that we implement a policy to address the challenge."

In Great Britain and Ireland members are being encouraged to:

Examine all ways of saving energy at home and in the office, including:

• using energy saving light bulbs; upgrading building insulation; installing solar panels; switching off lights and appliances when not needed
• buying cars and other vehicles with increased miles per gallon and reduced CO2 emissions.
• Reducing meetings and increasing the use of technology to reduce travelling and stationery consumption

Showing leadership in the local community by:

• Raising awareness in the community through meetings and leaflets
• Initiating relevant community projects
• Providing educational programmes to schools, local community groups and the elderly
• Purchasing energy saving light bulbs for the elderly
• Planting trees to absorb CO2
• Encouraging local self sufficiency and recycling

Showing leadership internationally by:

• Initiating relevant international projects
• Ensuring environmental issues are considered in all projects
• Assisting with funds for solar panels, mini wind farms, mini hydro plants
• Encouraging and assisting with reforestation in critical areas

Rotary Clubs will be encouraged to submit entries for the RIBI Environment Award which

encourages clubs to promote and recognise environmental awareness projects within their communities. The objective of this award is to promote the improvement and protection of the environment locally and to develop awareness of environmental issues throughout the world.  It is hoped that every Club will appoint an Environment Officer and develop local competitions involving schools, local community groups, business and agriculture. The Environmental Awards are presented annually in 2 categories, Club Projects and School Projects.The winner in each category will receive a small bursary award to be spent on an environmental project. This year’s winners will be announced at the Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland annual conference being held in Bournemouth on April 13-15^th.

For more information please contact: www.rotary-ribi.org