Join Welsh artists on Wales' first online climate change march

Welsh artists Cerys Matthews, Goldie Lookin Chain and Radio One DJ Huw Stephens are calling on people across Wales to join them on the country's first online march. By joining Friends of the Earth's The Big Ask march [1] you can be one of hundreds of thousands to send a personal message to the Government demanding action on climate change.

The Big Ask campaign gives people across Wales the chance to have their voice heard. Go to thebigask.com and upload a video clip asking your MP to support a strong climate change law, and an email is sent telling them about your message. The video clip can be easily made on a digital camera or even a mobile phone.

The UK needs to show leadership in tackling climate change. Friends of the Earth Cymru believes a strong climate change law is the best way of doing this. The strong law would make the Government cut the amount of carbon dioxide released in the UK by at least three per cent year on year.

Cerys Matthews said: "Climate change is going to affect us all, but we can all do our part to fight it. We have to do something about carbon emissions rising in Wales - working together we can make a real difference. I've put my clip online at thebigask.com - I think it's a great way to show the Government that so many of us are demanding real action on climate change."

Gordon James, Director of Friends of the Earth Cymru, said: "We need to make sure that the Welsh voice is heard on this most important issue. Although almost all Welsh MPs voted in favour of a strong Climate Change Bill, Westminster is in danger of producing a watered down version. Action needs to be taken now to prevent this happening and it's great to see that so many people have spoken up already."

Notes

1. The Big Ask online march can be seen at www.thebigask.com/ Other famous marchers include Jude Law, Stephen Fry, Helen Baxendale, Gillian Anderson and James Blunt.
   
2. Friends of the Earth launched the call for a new climate change law through The Big Ask campaign in 2005 because UK carbon emissions have risen under Labour, despite promises of substantial cuts. In November last year the Government announced new climate legislation to cut carbon dioxide emissions. But, Friends of the Earth says the draft law must be strengthened to include the UK's share of emissions from international shipping and aviation, ensuring that the country plays its part in tackling climate change, by ensuring that emissions are cut by at least 3% every year.