Wednesday marked the beginning of Lent, the 40-day period of self-denial and reflection observed by Catholics and some other religious denominations. This year, instead of giving up chocolate or Facebook addictions, some parishioners will rein in their carbon habit. Bishops in Liverpool and London are joining with Ed Milliband, the U.K.'s energy and climate change minister, to promote a 40-day carbon fast. Participants might challenge themselves to cut carbon emissions by not driving during Lent, or they could opt for humbler goals like removing a light bulb or unplugging an appliance. Milliband told the Guardian, "This initiative shows there are ways we can make a difference that might seem like a sacrifice to begin with but can easily become part of everyday life and help tackle dangerous climate change."
--Della Watson
