Why not come down to the World Environment Day 2008 Fair at Grey’s Monument in Newcastle on Thursday 5th June.

May 20 2008 by Karen Wilson, The Journal

From 10am-5pm you can get free environmental advice from organisations such as Newcastle City Council, the Environment Agency, Newcastle Warm Zone and the Energy Savings Trust.

You can also learn about renewable technologies.

With live music, street entertainment, ice sculpting, and hot food it is set to be a fun-packed day.

OUR climate is changing. It’s a fact. But the choices we all make that impact on the environment should be changing as well. By making the right choices now we can slow climate change down and – just as importantly – we can get ready for it.

June 5 is World Environment Day. The Environment Agency and Newcastle City Council have teamed up, for the third year running, to promote it across the city, and this year they want everyone to “Stand Up to Climate Change”.

Just some of the simple steps you can take to get ready are:

Be prepared for floods

Extreme weather is an unavoidable consequence of climate change. Are you ready for it? The first step is to find out if you’re at risk from floods. Check the website to find out more www.environment-agency.gov.uk or call Floodline on 0845 988-1188 (local rate).

Save water

As well as floods, climate change is likely to lead to more droughts. Are you doing all you can to conserve water? This can be as simple as turning off the tap when you brush your teeth.

Help save wildlife

These changes in climate are happening too quickly for some species to adapt – but we can help. Creating a wildlife area in your garden can let local wildlife thrive.

Stay safe in extreme weather

Extreme weather conditions can make travel risky. Plan how you can avoid travelling when the weather is bad – or working from home.

So, what are you going to do to get ready for climate change? Visit www.environment-agency.gov.uk/wed and tell everyone.

To find out more or to get involved, email mike.thomas@newcastle.gov.uk, visit www.newcastle.gov.uk and click on the World Environment Day link or call: (0191) 277-7149.

World Environment Day celebrations continue on Friday, June 6 with showings of “Flood” the movie at Newcastle’s Civic Centre. The Green Festival at Leazes Park in Newcastle on Saturday and Sunday, June 7 and 8 promises to be a green packed few days!

This year the free festival is a BBC Springwatch event featuring a host of family friendly activities designed to both delight and educate in the beautiful surroundings of Leazes Park.