Lib Dems seek cross-party support to make Hounslow Britain's greenest borough

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Tue 6th Jun 2006

Andrew Dakers (centre) launched his 2005 general election campaign with supporters at a local bicycle shop. Andrew has used a bicycle and public transport for the past six years after taking his car (now recycled) off the road to reduce his environmental footprint.

Hounslow Borough could become one of the greenest in the country within a decade if new proposals from Lib Dem councillors are supported by all local political groups.

The Liberal Democrat group on Hounslow Borough Council is seeking cross-party support for an agenda of action covering key issues such as reducing CO2 emissions, increasing the amount of organic and seasonal food we eat, improving the sustainability of local transport and encouraging native wildlife diversity.

The party is finalising a policy motion for the next full council meeting on Tuesday 27th June and is hoping for a cross-party consensus.

Liberal Democrat group leader Andrew Dakers commented:

"Leading scientists acknowledge climate change is the greatest danger facing humanity. In many parts of the world people are already losing their lives as a result of a less predictable climate. In London this is clearly demonstrated by the Thames Barrier, which is used more and more often. By 2050 it may need to be raised every day.

"There is now consensus emerging at a national level that urgent action is needed. The Liberal Democrats put the environment at the heart of our local election manifesto. The Conservatives campaigned under the banner of "Vote Blue, Go Green" and Gordon Brown gave a key note speech on the environment during the election period.

"Now is the time for all the parties to come together in Hounslow around an agenda for action that delivers real results for the people of Hounslow and the global community of which we are a part. Cheaper energy bills, better health and more wildlife can all come from a renewed focus on designing our lives in harmony with the environment upon which we depend."