Staffordshire Police are introducing a policy which will make the force more environmentally friendly. The strategy targets reducing carbon dioxide emissions by more then four per cent over the next two years and by 60 per cent by 2050.

It will include changes in three main areas – buildings, transport and waste – as well as offering practical tips to officers and staff. Ralph Butler, force organisational support business manager, said that as a 24-hour seven-days-a-week operation the force used a significant amount of energy.

“Steps have already been taken, such as the introduction of a green travel plan and the use of eco-friendly heating and lighting systems,” he said.

“But there is still some distance to go. If every member of staff made small changes, the overall impact would be big.”

Mr Butler said the commitment to change will not only save money.

He said: “It is important in our on-going drive to improve trust and confidence in Staffordshire Police.

“We have a legal and ethical obligation to introduce this policy which is part of a wider strategy for public bodies across the region.”

Mr Butler said the strategy includes practical tips on energy saving in buildings, the use of existing recycling facilities and cutting emissions from travel.

It also outlines potential knock-on effects climate change may have on the force, such as incidents arising from more frequent bouts of extreme weather, population migration and environmental protests.