This is a statement by Mayor Mallon 'Taking The Lead' Most people would agree that the environment is important, but not everyone is making the lifestyle changes that are now vital to ensure that we all have a healthy environment to live in. Global warming is happening and the evidence is becoming increasingly clear. The leading scientific and expert opinions that I read, leave me in no doubt that remedial action is the only option. The amount of greenhouse gases already emitted into the atmosphere over the last 100 years means the surface and sea temperature will continue to rise for at least 50 years. We have entered an age of 'climate uncertainty' and can now expect more extreme weather, winter flooding, summer droughts and heavy storms. To stabilise the atmosphere, global scientists tell us that a 60% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions is necessary. That is why Climate Change is now the most important environmental challenge facing society. Middlesbrough emits 800,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide each year, so must plan to reduce emissions by 480,000 tonnes. This will require co-ordination, a commitment from all sectors of the community and innovation as we regenerate the town. In November 2002 I was pleased to sign the Local Government Climate Change Declaration on behalf of Middlesbrough community, which contained commitment to develop a local Climate Change Community Action Plan, through consultation and genuine community involvement. Following nine months of consultation, this Action Plan is now a reality and provides the roadmap to show that Middlesbrough is leading by example, to tackle the causes and effects of climate change. It demonstrates how Middlesbrough will reduce emission by 12.5% as an absolute minimum by 2010, resulting in 100,000 tonnes less greenhouse gasses each year. Why then is he letting the sale of a beautiful wood (site 44, Longridge) on Stainton Way go ahead to build 70-80 houses. We all know that trees absorb gasses where as houses and cars emit gasses. Middlesbrough Green Space Strategy states that Middlesbrough has the lowest amount of trees in the North East. Its states we have a 'Deficiency of Woodland'. Why then are we going to bulldoze 'Woodland' to build houses we certainly do not need. This site has been classed as 'High Quality' and of 'Value to the Community'. Why then are we letting developers buy this land for building when we desperately need the trees. This site was designated for building 25 years ago. So much has changed in the last 25 years and if you have any thoughts about the future of your children and grandchildren you will help to stop the sale of this land. Please, please can you help stop the sale of this beautiful wood. Please take time to walk through it I am sure you will feel the same yourself after the visit. Do you think Mayor Mallon is fulfilling his agreement? We need the trees. Please help us to keep this beautiful woodland that many people use and where deer graze, not to mention all the other birds and animals.