Rock on the Environment

Nigel Rock has been passionate about the environment all his adult life. Other politicians may have jumped on the "green bandwagon" recently, but Nigel has a track record which is second to none.

A life-long commitment

Inspecting new solar panels at home

"In the late 1970's I became very concerned about deforestation in South America. Being already sympathetic to their ideals and commitment to fairness, I joined the (then) Liberal party because it had by far the best environmental credentials and policies.

"By profession I am a Chartered Engineer. I now work in a low-carbon environmental consultancy, helping companies and individuals to reduce their carbon output. Prior to that, much of my working life has been spent in the field of efficiency engineering in the motor industry.

A proven record as a district councillor

"I am a councillor in Stratford District, which covers about one third of the new constituency. At the council I have played a leading role in bringing forward environmental improvements, even though Liberal Democrats are in opposition. These include:

• Stopping green waste going to landfill;

• Stopping lights being left on all day in council car parks;

• A scheme for solar hot water across the whole of Stratford district, to encourage residents to install these systems;

• Renewable energy planning policies for the district to ensure environmental improvements across the area that are effective and well directed;

• Successfully pressing for the introduction of renewable energy provision in all new housing developments;

• A recycling scheme for commercial businesses based around the local canal system.

"When I was president of my local Rotary Club, I selected climate change awareness as my charity - the first club across the West Midlands to do this. I have given strong support to the Long Itchington Friends of the Environment (LIFE), a group established a few years ago, to help them raise their profile across the district.

Leading by personal example

Nigel Rock and Simon Hughes MP sign up to 10:10

"I have been measuring my personal carbon footprint for the past three years, having signed up to the '25/5' challenge which was the forerunner of the current national 10:10 campaign. This committed me to reduce my carbon emissions by 5% a year, a target which I have exceeded substantially.

"For the last four years I have driven a hybrid car, and try to combine trips when I can to reduce fuel consumption.

"At home, I have recently installed 2.6 kW solar panels on the roof, which I hope and expect will enable me to cut my carbon footprint even further."

What action on the Environment would Nigel Rock take as your next MP?

"I would play an active role in promoting and supporting the Environment in Parliament, as part of a strong Liberal Democrat group of MP's with by far the best 'green' policies of all the major political parties.

"If I am elected as your MP for Kenilworth & Southam, my first priority for a private member's bill would be to introduce a retail deposit scheme for bottles and cans, to help reduce this massive source of waste in our country. Similar legislation already exists in Germany, the US, Canada, Scandinavia and Australia."