Let's ignore those idiots...

... who still quibble about whether (a) global warming exists, and (b) whether or not it's man-made (if it's not man-made, I would love to know where all that pollution we pump into the air, sea and land goes).

Instead, let's focus on trying to do our bit to stop global warming. Yesterday's big news splash will hopefully signify the beginning of positive, effective action on the part of the world's governments to do something about the problem. Why not pre-empt them so that when the green taxes hit home you're not going to be crippled by them?

One thing you can do now is reduce your energy usage. My mate Steve has pledged to convert all his electricity bulbs to energy efficient ones so long as 60 people pledge to do the same. I've already signed up and will use the pledge as a kick up the backside to convert the last non-efficient bulbs in our house (in the lounge) by the end of the year. I don't know how this compares to other people, but I currently spend £30 a month on my electricity bill (I'm actually in credit to the tune of around £100 at the moment), and that includes all my work energy costs because - of course - I'm based at home. Anyway, if you'd like to start doing your bit for the planet and save some money in the long-term to boot, check out Steve's pledge and sign up here.

When we moved here I left all the energy efficient light bulbs in our old house, and started afresh. There are lights all over the place here, but prices are tumbling, and I staggered the cost over a number of months. One particular type of bulb - a smaller tightly coiled shape from a company called Specialist - are particualrly good, providing perfect lighting from the moment they're switched on.