South Tyneside

Press release: Rain is shape of things to come

South Tyneside Friends of the Earth say that Sunday's heavy rainfall is an indication that the effects of global warming are being felt now. The environmental campaign group, which is having it's next open meeting at the Coffea Caban at the Market Square, South Shields at 7.00pm on Thursday night, hope that the public will take part in trying the combat the causes of climate change.

Bryan Atkinson, South Tyneside FOE spokesperson said:

"These heavy rainfall events are becoming more frequent in the UK, and Sunday's heavy downpour is only a local glimpse of what is happening globally.

"Sudden heavy rainstorms are one of the symptoms of global warming that have been predicted by scientists. The Environment Agency has admitted that these extreme weather events will become more commonplace as the effects of climate change increase.

"South Tyneside was lucky on Sunday and escaped the worst of the rain. North Yorkshire bore the brunt of the storm and received a month's worth of rainfall in just three hours.

"Despite these signs, the government is doing very little to combat climate change. That's why Friends of the Earth has launched The Big Ask, a campaign for the introduction of legislation which will oblige the government to do something to reduce carbon dioxide emissions.

"Everyone can do something to combat emissions, from reducing home energy usage, to leaving the car at home. To take part in The Big Ask, and help tackle climate change simply go to The Big Ask website, www.thebigask.com, and register your wish to see something done about climate change."

Contacts

email: stfoe@negg.org

Notes

1. South Tyneside FOE online: http://www.negg.org/stfoe/
2. FOE England, Northern Ireland & Wales: http://www.foe.co.uk/
3. BBC News report:http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/4110220.stm
4. The Big Ask: http://www.thebigask.com
5. Early Day Motion 178: http://edmi.parliament.uk/EDMi/EDMDetails.aspx?EDMID=28373

Ends