"Save money and save the planet"

11.17.50am UTC (GMT +0000) Thu 26th Oct 2006

Welsh Liberal Democrat AM for Brecon and Radnorshire, Kirsty Williams, is backing the Energy Saving Trust's campaign help prevent climate change.

The campaign highlights the small steps that each individual can take to help reduce their energy consumption by 20 per cent; steps that could collectively lead to a significant reduction in carbon dioxide emissions.

Ms Williams said: "When faced with such a huge global problem as climate change, it's easy for individuals to feel that their actions do not matter. This campaign highlights the important impact we could make if we all took such small steps as using energy efficient lightbulbs or turning down thermostats.

"These measures aren't just good for the environment either, they can help reduce our energy bills and save us money. I am determined to do my bit and commit to saving 20 per cent of the energy I use; I would urge as many people as possible to do the same."

Notes:

· Further details of the Energy Savings Trust campaign can be found at www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/commit

· Ms Williams has committed to : only boiling as much water as needed when making hot drinks, turning down her thermostat by 1ºC, switching off appliances (not leaving them on standby), replacing 3 lightbulbs with Energy Saving Recommended ones, buying Energy Saving Recommended appliances and washing laundry at 30ºC.