ENVIRONMENTALIST Yann Arthus-Bertrand is calling for a 10% cut in carbon emissions in 12 months, in a campaign called 10:10.
The name refers to a 10% cut starting now, in 2010.
Mr Arthus-Bertrand, known for presenting environmental programme Vu du Ciel (Seen from the Sky) on France 2 and directing 2009 film Home, is now the French face of this campaign which started in the UK last year. It is gaining support in dozens of countries across the world.
The French campaign launched with a picnic in Paris’ Parc de la Villette on World Environment Day last month.
Mr Arthus-Bertrand and his environmental charity GoodPlanet says people should not wait for politicians to pass laws and make international agreements – they should stop wasting so much and learn to “distinguish our needs from our desires.” He is targeting individuals, businesses, councils and schools.
He said: “We want to show that by working together from today onwards we have the power to change things. The goal is not to blame but to make people take responsibility. We’re not waiting until 2020 or 2050 - we’re starting today.”
Sixty French firms have pledged to cut emissions by 10%, including Canon France, Capgemini, Cisco, Danone, L’Oréal and Sony France.
Tens of thousands of individuals have also pledged to do their bit.
Mr Athus-Bertrand is famous for aerial photography. projects like a book of photos of beautiful places, La Terre Vue du Ciel (The Earth Seen from the Sky) and a documentary of the same name.
Last year’s Home was his first feature film.
See www.1010.fr
What can I do?
Ride a bike instead of driving, one day a week
Lower your radiator thermostat and switch off appliances on standby. Old ones should be replaced with greener ones labelled A++
Do not fly if you can use a train. Take holidays closer to home – but for longer
Choose fruits and vegetables that are local, organic and in season and avoid meat one day a week
Buy longer-lasting better-quality products and consider secondhand items, swapping or renting.
Start recycling and try to use up leftovers
Take showers not baths and only wash clothes when the machine is full
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