Happy Green New Year!

He's asking everyone to remember the three Rs - Reduce, Re-Use and Recycle, in their New Year's resolutions.

Retired Priest David says we've got to change the way we live for the sake of our children and grandchildren.

And by making small changes to your lifestyle, you can make a big difference to the planet.

David explained:

"Looking after our environment is a major issue and we all need to develop a way of life where we don't take resources that our future generations will need.

"I understand that not everyone finds it easy to change their habits, but there are simple things you can do.

"For example, you could help cut down on carbon emissions from cars by walking or using the bus for local journeys.

"And if you're a senior citizen, like me, you can benefit from free travel in Pendle, with a NOW card!"

"Or if your family live near to you, you could consider car sharing.

"Three generations of my family currently share two cars and with careful planning, it works very well."

David is also urging people to think twice before they buy anything new and not to throw anything away if it could be used again.  He said:

"Many people don't realise that buying new means using up vital energy and resources.

"My message is think before you buy.

"If you need something new, try to consider shopping locally, to cut down on the transport for carrying goods.

"And before you throw anything away, consider if it could be recycled or useful to somebody else.

"You can list unwanted items on the freecycle website, where instead of throwing away goods, people are offered them for free." 

Councillor Jonathan Eyre, Pendle Council's Climate Change Champion, is urging Pendle residents to follow David's lead.

He said:

"It's easy for most people to make one small change such as walking or taking public transport for local journeys or giving away unwanted items via freecycle.

"And there's no better time to start than now!

"So please consider making at least one small change during 2012."

Visit groups.freecycle.org/burnleyandpendlefreecycle if you have something you no longer need that may be of use to somebody else.