Climate change is possibly the greatest threat we face today. Rising sea levels, dangerous heat waves, increased extreme weather events and food instability are just some of the things we need to avoid by cutting our carbon emissions.
My government has taken major steps to address this threat - committing the UK to 80% reductions by 2050 in the world's first Climate Change Bill.
But we still have far to go. At the United Nations climate summit in Copenhagen this December world leaders must decide how to tackle global warming. They should deliver a fair international deal that keeps global warming under 2 degrees C and protects people.
I am chairing part of an international conference next week in Parliament on climate change and the lead up to Copenhagen. It will bring together politicians and campaigners from all over the world.
It is not just up to governments alone - there many opportunities for people to get involved. I am, therefore, pleased to congratulate local girl Gemma Bone who will be in Copenhagen as a delegate for the UK Youth Climate Coalition.
And you can get involved locally. Gemma has organised a local screening of the new film, "The Age of Stupid," at 7.30pm on Thursday 16th July at St. Joseph's Parish Centre, Birtley. There is a small entry fee of £2.
This film stars Pete Postlethwaite as a man living alone in the devastated future world of 2055, looking back at old footage from 2008 and asking: 'why didn't we stop climate change when we had the chance?'
The screening will be followed by a discussion with special guest speakers. And Gemma also wants to discuss how to make Gateshead a greener place to live.
You may also like to have a look at Gemma's online blog (or diary) at gemgoingreen.wordpress.com to track her progress to Copenhagen and for tips on how to 'go green'.
If you would like more details on the screening or you would like Gemma to organise something similar in your school/youth club please contact me at St Cuthbert's Church Hall, Shibdon Road, Blaydon on Tyne, NE21 5PT or 0191 414 2488 or via this website.
| Promoted by Paul Foy on behalf of Dave Anderson, both of St Cuthbert's Church Hall, Shibdon Road, Blaydon, NE21 5PT |