The Neco approach of making real change without asking people to become followers of some alternative lifestyle is an essential step if we are to change our way of living to have less impact on the environment.

We are increasingly pre-occupied by debates over issues such as nuclear power or whether to build desalination plants, when the best way to make an immediate and positive change to our world is just to use our resources more efficiently. Then we wouldn't need them at all.

It has never been easier to make a positive contribution to improving our environment than it is today with the rapidly expanding range of new products coming onto the market. And they are not only good for the planet - they save people money as well.

One of the big problems is that most people don't know that these things exist, or think that they will have to sacrifice comfort or convenience to make a difference. In fact it is usually just the opposite.

Neco has a vital role to play in getting this message out to households and industry.