PEOPLE in Exeter are being given the opportunity to help shape the way the city deals with climate change.

Residents and businesses are being invited to tell the City Council what they think about the city's draft Climate Change Strategy, before it is finalised in early 2008.

The draft strategy is a first step in building support to tackle the challenges of climate change. The Government has set a target of 30% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions by 2020 and all sectors of the community need to work hard to achieve this target if society is to respond to the threat posed by climate change.

The draft Strategy includes initial proposals to reduce emissions from energy consumption, transport use and waste disposal and for how the city can adapt to the effects of climate change.

Commenting on the draft strategy, Council Leader Pete Edwards, said: "Climate change is the biggest issue that we need to tackle over the next two decades and beyond. We are keen to hear the views of local residents and businesses about the proposals set out in the draft Strategy. We are also encouraging people to calculate their own carbon footprint and to consider how they can reduce their own emissions to help tackle climate change."

People can calculate their own carbon footprint by visiting www.direct.gov.uk The carbon calculator tots up household emissions of carbon dioxide, from the use of energy in the home, appliances and transport.

The calculator then develops a personalised action plan with steps for people to take to cut their emissions.

The proposals that the Council is seeking views on include a carbon offset levy on city centre off street parking charges, the proceeds of which would be used entirely to fund improved sustainable transport (public transport, cycling and walking) and energy initiatives within Exeter; a requirement for new developments to incorporate on-site renewable energy equipment and measures to encourage people to reduce their energy consumption.

In September there will be a series of climate change displays throughout the city where people can pick up a copy of the strategy and consultation leaflet and enter the prize draw to win £50 of Farmers' Market vouchers.

Copies of the documents are also available on the Council's website at www.exeter.gov.uk/climatechange, from the Civic Centre reception or by contacting Kathryn Lamble on 01392 265669. The final date for comments is Monday 15 October.