<p><P>CLIMATE change is the greatest challenge facing us, according to the world’s leading scientists who blame mankind for global warming.</P> <P>A United Nations panel comprised of more than 2,500 scientists from some 130 nations has sent the most dire warning yet to governments that they must take urgent action now to prevent damage that could last for centuries.</P> <P>But the real question is this: how many of us, as individuals, are actually prepared to change the way we live to do something about it?</P> <P>This week, our sister paper the Manchester Evening News launched the first major survey into the region’s attitude towards climate change.</P> <P>Perhaps you believe that the scientists have got it wrong or that the issues surrounding the environment are simply irrelevant.</P> <P>Or, perhaps you think that the effects of climate change are already visible in Greater Manchester – borne out by cracked earth, flash floods, soaring temperatures and violent summer storms.</P> <P>Whatever your opinion, we want to know and are asking all our readers to complete the survey which has been devised in conjunction with green campaigners at Manchester is My Planet and officials at the Department of Food, Environment and Rural Affairs (Defra).</P> <P>“We believe that the time for action is running out,” said Keith Boxer, programme director for Manchester is My Planet.</P> <P>“For this reason, it is vital that we engage with the public on climate change and find out just how relevant it is to their lives here in Greater Manchester.</P> <P>“The results of this survey will be vitally important in helping us develop future strategies for tackling climate change.</P> <P>“A huge response would enable us to demonstrate how passionately Mancunians feel about their environment,” he added.</P> <P>The survey has also received backing from experts at the world-renowned Tyndall Centre for Climate Change Research, based at the University of Manchester.</P> <P>“The results will provide us with a snapshot of what people believe to be true about climate change at the start of 2007,” said Dr Kevin Anderson, who leads Tyndall’s energy programme.</P> <P>“Everyone must do their bit. It’s going to be fascinating to discover the view of residents across Greater Manchester.”</P> <P><STRONG><EM>CLICK on the link below to complete the survey.</EM></STRONG></P></p>