Responding to a leaked UN report which shows that international shipping accounts for 4.5 percent of global emissions of carbon dioxide [1], Friends of the Earth's Head of Campaigns Mike Childs said:

"The UN study highlights the alarming growth in carbon dioxide emissions from the shipping industry.  It reinforces Friends of the Earth's call for the Government to include all the UK's emissions - including the UK's share of emissions from international shipping and aviation -  in its new climate change law.  It's ludicrous to leave them out. A bit like introducing a drink driving law that discounts whisky. We hope the Governments acknowledgement that shipping must take its share of the responsibility for tackling climate change means that they will now be included." 

The Big Ask, Friends of the Earth campaign for a strong climate change law which:

*Includes UK's share of emissions from international shipping and aviation

*Commits the UK to cutting its emissions by 80 percent

*Ensures steady progress by cutting emissions by at least 3 per cent a year

Individuals can take action in support of the campaign at www.thebigask.com.

ENDS

Notes

For more information and to arrange an interview contact Friends of the Earth on 0207 566 1649

[1] http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2008/feb/13/climatechange.pollution