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A Norwich environmental action group is trying to help people reduce their carbon footprint by holding an awareness week.

From Monday, 24 March, 2008, the Norwich Carbon Reduction Trust wants to let people know what measures they can take to cut the amount of carbon they produce.

Plastic bag ban

A few days later on 28 March, NCRT is urging people not to accept any new plastic bags when they go shopping in the city.

The chair of NCRT, Brenda Arthur, said: "The message is, 'Please, take a reusable bag with you when you go shopping on that day'."

Brenda said a large number of Norwich stores and shops have taken up the trust's appeal.

"We are delighted that a significant number of traders across the city including M&S, Jarrold, John Lewis, Boots, HMV, Tesco,Ìý Jones Shoes and a number of shops in both the Chapelfield and Castle Malls as well as many of the shops in the Norwich Lanes are supporting us," she added.Ìý

Volunteers at the WRVS shop at the Norfolk And Norwich University NHS Trust will also be encouraging people not to use any new plastic bags.

Light switch-off

The week will end with Earth Hour - an initiative started by a Norfolk man which is now spreading across the world.

On 29 March between 8 and 9pm people are being asked to switch off all non-essential lights, with the City Hall, the castle and many city centre shops pledging to take part.Ìý

Each day during the week ³ÉÈËÂÛ̳ Radio Norfolk and the Eastern Daily Press will be highlighting tips to help people make small adjustments to their lifestyle.

Trust's goals

The Norwich Carbon Reduction Trust is working across the city to help people build environmentally-friendly communities which will make a difference to our lives today and leave a positive legacy for future generations.

NCRT aims to achieve this by preserving, conserving and protecting the environment and promoting the good use of natural resources.

It wants to promote sustainable means of economic growth and regeneration and offer people the chance to learn more about sustainability.Ìý