GLOBAL warming is one of the biggest threats facing the planet, and it is already starting to have an effect.

Extreme floods, droughts and storms are no longer uncommon, while rising sea levels are putting many plants and animals at risk.

But the good news is that everyone can help combat climate change by reducing the amount of harmful greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere.

Recently a competition was launched in Swindon aimed at boosting the town's green credentials.

Switch on Swindon, which is being run by Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, is designed to find the town's most energy efficient community.

The message to householders is that energy efficiency not only saves the environment, but can slash fuel bills too.

Experts say that by making a few simple changes, the average household could cut energy use by 75 per cent and make savings of £200 a year.

To find out exactly how, the Evening Advertiser arranged for two home energy officers from Swindon Council to cast a critical eye over a house recently brought by Old Town resident Pete Langcaster.

Pete, 29, his wife Charlotte, 35, and their two young children, Ben, three, and Jack, 13-months, moved into the 1920s terraced property in Maidstone Road in April.

Pete, a postman, had never thought about making his home greener until we visited with energy experts Helen Sanderson and Alison Robinson.

He was also unaware that a lot of work can be funded though grants available from the borough council or the Government.

The first thing Helen wanted to know was whether the property had cavity wall and loft insulation, which it did not.

Because Pete has children under four years of age, he qualifies for a Home Repair Assistance grant, which will cover the cost of getting the property insulated, around £500.

The grant also pays for hot water boiler jackets and energy efficiency light bulbs.

Around 25 per cent of fuel used to heat un-insulated homes is lost through the roof, while 35 per cent seeps out through the walls.

Pete said: "I had no idea I was entitled to this money. It's a brilliant scheme, and so easy to apply for. I will definitely ask for one."

Pete's house scored pretty well on the draft-proofing front he has a porch and an inner door, which helped.

Helen said: "Draft excluders are cheap and easy to fit.

"Around 10 to 15 per cent of energy which makes up an average fuel bill can escape through draughty windows and doors."

Old hot water boilers are also a source of energy loss.

Helen did not rate Pete's boiler very highly, and suggested that when it eventually needs replacing, he installs a greener model.

The trouble with energy efficient models is that they normally cost more, but householders can now take advantage of a scheme offering green boilers at a subsided price.

Under the Big Green Boiler Scheme, hi-tech condensing boilers are available at the same price as normal models.

The models which are subsided by the Government and local authorities are more efficient because they recycle heat normally lost through the flue.

Helen said: "Condensing boilers are generally 12 per cent more efficient than modern boilers.

"During the 15 year life span of the boiler, you can expect to save around £900."

Helen also noticed that none of Pete's kitchen appliances had environmentally friendly labels on.

She said: "When you are buying fridges, freezers and washing machines, there should always be a label on, outlining how energy efficient the machines are."

Helen then turned her attention to Pete's lighting, and noticed that he did not have any low energy light bulbs.

She said: "The bulbs cost £8, but they will save you around £10 a bulb. They last between eight and 10 years.

"There is also an added safety benefit because they mean elderly people do not have to clamber onto stools to change blown light bulbs so often."

After the tour of his home, Pete said: "I have learned a lot today, and I will definitely put some measures into place.

"I'm really impressed that so many grants are available.

"It's up to all of us to help save the planet."

Weatherman gives project a fine start

Switch on Swindon was launched this month by BBC Points West weatherman Richard Angwin.

To highlight the dangers of climate change, Richard gave a prediction of what the weather would be like in 2050 if we continue to pump out polluting greenhouse gases.

Over the next year, council wards will be given points depending on how well residents are promoting energy awareness.

Points will be awarded for organising talks and events and getting householders to fill-in home energy surveys.

The winning ward will get £4,000 to spend on community projects.

And householders who implement efficiency measures will be entered into a draw with a prize of £500.

To take part, call organiser Ruth Baker on 01793 535476.