FOR Greater Manchester's residents, the solution is simple: tackle global warming now. More than 90 per cent of us believe the climate is changing and 80 per cent are worried about the threat it poses to their children.

And one of the solutions? Bring in the congestion charge.

Almost two-thirds of the region backs Manchester's proposed scheme as a way of cutting greenhouse gas emissions.

The results of the M.E.N.'s survey - which was devised in conjunction with the Manchester Is My Planet Campaign (MIMPC) - will now help policy-makers decide how to encourage people to increase recycling and reduce environmental damage.

Keith Boxer, managing director of MIMPC, which advises the government on the north west's environmental policy, said he was delighted that 3,390 people filled in the online survey.

"The survey has revealed a high level of awareness of climate change across Greater Manchester and, most importantly, an accompanying desire to take action," he said.

"We were astonished that 95 per cent of respondents believe the world's climate is changing, and 92 per cent stated that in order to tackle climate change we need to take action immediately.

'Difference'

"The survey has highlighted that 88 per cent of people strongly believe that we, as individuals, can make a difference.

"It is very important we continue to raise awareness of global warming and help households and businesses to take action to save money and reduce greenhouse gas emissions."

Around half - or 46.9 per cent - of Manchester's residents believe there is currently sufficient "help, support and information" to ensure that people achieve energy efficiency.

But 80 per cent of respondents expressed an interest in using solar panels while 90 per cent did not rule out switching to "green electricity" supplied by renewable sources - provided both were cost effective.

Mr Boxer was also surprised that around 70 per cent of respondents said they would be prepared to "change their lifestyle" if the government introduced personal carbon rations.

"The survey has proved hugely useful in gaining a snapshot of Manchester's position regarding climate change," he said.

"We can now take these findings and work with them in order to help shape future policy."

WHAT do you make of the survey's findings? Have your say.