EDITOR'S CHOICE FRINGE OFFERS 2 for 1 offer to The Lady Boys of Bangkok FOOD ON FRIDAY Buy one main course and get another free at Riddle and Finns, Hove DOWNLOAD OF THE WEEK Listen to new music from Brighton's best bands WHAT'S ON Turncoat, Ocean Rooms, Fri, May 16, 7.15pm The Hold Steady, The Old Market, Fri, May 16, 10.15pm GOING GREEN Green funerals unearthed LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Sixties concert had good vibrations Albion's adventures in the FA Cup COMMENT AND ANALYSIS Time to fill gap in our children's knowledge of history VOTE Do you think cannabis should be reclassified? Yes No Don't know GET OUR NEWS BY E-MAIL Just register

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What is it you do?
I've recently taken over as co-ordinator of Friends of the Earth (FoE) Brighton and Hove.

It's an exciting challenge.

Why did you pick that?
I like the philosophy of FoE and wanted to be part of something which can effect real change.

FoE works within the current systems to influence Government policy, as well as at a grassroots level on issues that impact on people daily. There are thousands of local FoE groups around the world helping to unite people with common aims - and its track record for success is impressive.

What makes you greener than other organisations?
There is loads of great work going on in all sorts of ways, so I wouldn't want to compare in that way. However, what does make the organisation stand out is its reputation. FoE has been around since 1971 and, because the name is so well received, it definitely helps give force to what we do.

What is your latest green campaign?
We are currently working on strengthening the Climate Change Bill. It's one of the most important laws ever made and the first of its kind in any country. The Bill sets vital targets for reducing CO2 emissions which will be legally binding for successive governments. FoE, together with many leading environmental organisations, is pushing for the targets to be increased to reflect the true nature of the problem and also to include aviation and shipping in them.

In fact, we're getting together today at 2pm in the Royal Pavilion Gardens to support a strengthened Bill. There'll be a samba band and lots of fun, so come along - everyone is welcome.

How hard is it to be truly green in Sussex?
There's a brilliant eco-vibe amongst Sussex people - so there's plenty there to help us be green. We've got independent shops selling organic, local produce with minimum packaging, farmers' markets, lots of charity outlets and recycling/reclamation specialists, loads of products from wind-up radios to eco paints and chemical-free cosmetics. The more you look, the more you find.

There are also thriving community groups for things such as permaculture, allotment sharing, skills sharing and so on which people can get involved with. Being in a city compact enough you can walk or cycle anywhere also certainly helps.

Carbon-offsetting, yes or no?
I can understand it's appealing to carry on polluting and get someone else to sort it out - but that's really not the answer. We need to be responsible for our own actions and change our behaviour accordingly.

What's your guiltiest green secret?
My bike's got a flat tyre which I haven't got round to fixing and my mum is storing her car at mine... need I say more?!

What's the biggest thing you've sacrificed to be green?
The only real sacrifice is not having so much free time... but then I'd probably just use it wondering what I should be doing to improve our environment anyway.

Are you a climate worrier or are you more optimistic?
Definitely optimistic. I firmly believe when people unite they are unstoppable and I feel people will soon really see what's happening and start coming together. It's already happening.

What is your skill for when the oil runs out?
I'm not exactly very practical - I can barely put up a shelf - although I'm willing to give most things a go under supervision. I think it will probably be encouraging people to get together to help one another get through.

In a nutshell, what's your philosophy on living a greener life?
Consume less, treasure what you have, look for solutions and be happy.

4:56pm Tuesday 8th April 2008

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