CHRISTCHURCH council has become the latest local authority to show its commitment to climate change by signing the Nottingham Declaration.

More than 250 councils have now signed the pledge to tackle the causes of climate change in their area and help the UK meet its environmental targets in line with international agreements.

By signing the declaration Christchurch council has agreed to develop plans with partners and local communities to address the causes and impacts of climate change.

The civic offices is already acting on some of these with its own environmental management system to cut energy use and pollution from council activities, leading to a cleaner, greener Christchurch.

Solar photovoltaic panels to help power Steamer Point Information Centre, the use of bio diesel to fuel council vehicles and new low energy light fittings in the Civic Offices are among initiatives already in place.

Now, as part of the commitment, the council is encouraging all sectors of the community to follow the green lead and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, energy consumption, pollution and waste.

Leader of the council Cllr Alan Griffiths said: "Climate change is an important issue for all of us and it is essential for us to show, by signing this declaration, that we are committed to tackling climate change and helping to protect our environment for future generations.

"We are currently looking at various renewable energy projects to help reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and cut greenhouse gas emissions and would like to encourage everyone in the borough to do the same."

Phillip Sellwood, chief executive of the Energy Saving Trust, which administers the Nottingham Declaration, said: "We are delighted that Christchurch Borough Council has shown its commitment to climate change and signed this very important declaration.

"Climate change is occurring and will continue to have far reaching effects on the UK's society and environment."