7 November 2007 - Students at Sussex University will hear how taking personal steps to tackle climate change needn’t cost the earth today when South-East England Euro-MP Caroline Lucas visits the campus.

Dr Lucas will discuss how taking ‘green’ choices - using public transport and cycling and walking more, cutting energy bills and buying local food direct from Sussex farmers, to name a few - can all help stretch tight student budgets.

"All too often people assume that making environmental choices is about buying expensive ‘eco’ themed products and is the preserve of the wealthy," said the MEP, who is a member of the European Parliament’s influential Environment Committee.

"Of course the reality is that changing the way we live to make our everyday lives more sustainable usually costs less - not more - and can be a lot of fun along the way!"

Dr Lucas, who hopes to become the country’s first Green MP when she contests the Brighton pavilion seat at the next General Election, will also have private discussions with Sussex Students’ Union President Daniel Vockins about plans to improve the university’s environmental credentials - and set up a Green Party group on the campus.

She added: "People in Brighton are amongst the most environmentally aware in the country - and that includes students. I am delighted to have been invited to meet Daniel and discuss practical ways in which students’ can play an active role in realising the city’s Green aspirations."

ENDS