UNISON, the UK's leading public sector trade union, is calling on employers in both the public and private sector to work with staff to cut carbon emissions.

The call comes in the wake of a report showing that Whitehall departments were missing their carbon reduction targets, which could leave taxpayers liable to pick up the bill for heavy fines.

Dave Prentis, UNISON General Secretary, said: "Workplaces are estimated to be responsible for 50% of carbon emissions, so it is vital that they take responsibility for greening our future. Trade unions already have well-developed networks of representatives in workplaces, so are perfectly placed to help employers spread the green message and get staff involved.


"This week, UNISON launched a pilot project at the Welsh Eisteddfod, which will train green champions to make their workplaces more environmentally sustainable. The project aims to bring staff and management together to set up green initiatives such as cycle to work schemes or Fairtrade coffee breaks.

"UNISON already has a similar project running at Great Ormond Street Hospital for children, and three other projects planned for launch later this year. These projects will help us to develop best practise green guidance that can be rolled out to workplaces nationwide."

The failure to meet targets was revealed by the Environmental Audit Commission.

(CD/KMcA)