LIB DEMS JOIN DRIVE AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Wed 27th May 2009

(l-r) Cllr Paul Scriven, Simon Hughes MP, Bret Young (Clipper Logistics) and Cllr Shaffaq Mohammed

Simon Hughes, Liberal Democrat spokesman for Energy and Climate Change and the Lib Dem Sheffield Council Leader, Cllr Paul Scriven, have added their voice to the drive against climate change. They are promoting a local scheme aimed at reducing carbon emissions and improving air quality.

The ECO Stars Fleet Recognition Scheme, setup by the local Care4Air campaign, provides free help to LGV, HGV, bus and coach fleet operators to improve efficiency, reduce fuel consumption and reduce emissions - thus improving local air quality and mitigating climate change.

Care4Air spokesperson Mark Daly said: "Each organisation signing up to the scheme has both their individual vehicles and their overall road transport operation assessed using star rating criteria, to recognise good environmental performance. I'm delighted to say that our first 5 star member is Clipper Logistics."

Simon, who presented Clipper Logistics with a plaque, said: "This is a fantastic local scheme which can make a real difference in the battle against climate change and help local businesses save money in these difficult economic times."

"Congratulations go to Clipper Logistics for taking full advantage of the free scheme. I would urge other local businesses in Sheffield and South Yorkshire to follow their example."

Paul added "Every year vehicles on UK roads produce 173.2 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions. HGVs, LGVs, buses and coaches are responsible for 29% of this amount. By signing up to this scheme a typical HGV could reduce its annual output of carbon dioxide by six tonnes, which would make a real difference in the battle against climate change."

"But there are also financial benefits for local businesses. A HGV could see annual fuel consumption fall by a minimum of 5%, saving £2,750 on fuel costs for that vehicle. At a time when everyone is coming under financial pressure this scheme doesn't just make environmental sense, it can help save money too."

If you are interested in finding out more about the scheme and its benefits and how to sign up, call the ECO Stars Fleet Recognition Scheme Team on 01543 416 416 and quote 'ECO Stars'. Alternatively, email ecostars@ttr-ltd.com