17 October 2011 | Linton Nightingale
Energy, Europe

 

The EU hopes that its new campaign will encourage people to make resource efficiency habit.

The European Union (EU) today launched a campaign designed to encourage consumers to make resource efficiency habit.

‘Generation Awake. Your choices make a world of difference!’ was unveiled in Poland by European Environment Commissioner, Janez Potočnik and Polish Environment Minister, Andrzej Kraszewski. It is hoped that the campaign will help raise awareness among EU citizens on not only how to use limited natural resources carefully, but to take into account the effect on the planet when purchasing consumer products.

“With our economy in difficulty and our resources dwindling, it's time to start rethinking some of our habits. Using resources more carefully not only helps protect the environment, but saves money and reduces business costs,” said the European Environment Commissioner, Janez Potočnik. “It's about using less to do more. Everyone can do their bit. We just need to wake up.”

The key message is 'consume differently, and think before you choose'. The EU hopes that the message will help people realise that their individual choices can help in the preservation of natural resources and ensure a more sustainable future, whilst at the same time saving them money. ‘Generation Awake’ will also highlight to Businesses that they too can make the most of the campaign by learning of the cost saving methods available in adopting resource efficient practices.

The campaign will feature a viral clip, an official website and its own social networking page, which will encourage people to join the movement and share challenges, such as only using public transport for a month and reducing their time spent in the shower.

The launch event in the Polish capital of Warsaw, also offered those present tips on sustainable cooking, fashion and efficient energy use. Janez Potočnik, Minister Kraszewski, and NGO representatives also took part in a public debate.

Britain, Hungary and the Czech Republic will also host their respective launch events later this year.
 

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