Plans to set up a Climate Challenge Partnership Group to help tackle environmental issues locally and cut carbon emissions in Reading, is moving closer to reality. Among the long and varied list of organisations which could be invited for membership if they toe the line are Reading PCT, Reading University, Reading UK CIC, Reading FoE, Youth Cabinet, the Federation of Small Businesses and larger individual Reading firms such as Prudential. Prudential are leading the way in reducing their local carbon footprint by axing up to 750 jobs in Reading which will make it a major contributor to reducing traffic on our roads.

The group will look at all matters linked to climate change including, but not limited to:

• Generating enough plastic bags to comply with the council's 'double bagging' policy
• More 'Leave your car at home' days to reduce congestion for council employees
• Saving electricity by not repairing street lights when they fail

The council has also moved to appoint a new energy management officer to help reduce the Council's greenhouse gas emissions. Drivers of 4x4 vehicles living in conservation areas are invited to apply.