Downing Street goes green

An energy efficient lightbulb is fitted at Number 10 Downing Street, home of the British Prime Minister. Bruno Vincent / Getty Images

The British Government is showing its green face, fitting environment-friendly lightbulbs at Tony Blair's Downing Street home and office.

Blair has said the evidence for global warming is becoming stronger. He has previously told the British parliament: "Sea ice in the Arctic has shrunk by 1 million square metres, the ten hottest years on record have all occurred since 1991, and sea levels are rising".

Energy efficient lightbulbs use less energy than standard bulbs and can last longer, though they usually cost more to buy.

The Federal Trade Commission in the US estimates that users can save around US$5 ($7.70) a year per lightbulb.


- HERALD ONLINE STAFF