Responding to the comments of Professor Bob Watson on the increase in carbon emissions in the UK over the last two decades, Mike Childs, Head of Climate at Friends of the Earth, said:

"Professor Watson is right that if we include the import of products the carbon footprint of the UK has been steadily increasing rather than declining.

"The UK has made progress on reducing carbon emissions produced here - but the emissions cuts targets in the Climate Change Act, and those from international agreements, don't include the total emissions of the products we buy.

"The UK should start measuring its full carbon footprint as a first step towards tackling our overconsumption of high-carbon goods.

"The Government should also push for an international climate agreement that helps developing countries increase their use of clean technology to generate electricity, which would reduce the carbon footprint of the products we buy from them."

Notes to editors

1. Friends of the Earth believes the environment is for everyone. We want a healthy planet and a good quality of life for all those who live on it. We inspire people to act together for a thriving environment. More than 90 per cent of our income comes from individuals so we rely on donations to continue our vital work. For further information visit www.foe.co.uk.