The draft climate change bill says governments should work to a "carbon budget" that limits the emissions the UK can produce.
A government that failed to hit the target could be breaking the law. Discuss what punishment might be appropriate. What punishment is likely?
The Labour Party concentrated on the need for energy-saving in the home. Chancellor Gordon Brown focused on wasteful standby switches and oldfashioned electric light bulbs. Do young people agree this is an obvious first step?
The Conservative Party is emphasising the need to cut airline travel. Shadow chancellor George Osborne is proposing new taxes targeted at frequent fliers but not family holidays. How heavy would taxes have to be to stop people flying? Invite young people's ideas for saving energy and reducing carbon emissions.
What might they do personally? Discuss why it is often easier to think of changes other people should make.
The UK has much smaller carbon emissions than the US or China. Does this discourage young people from wanting to make an effort? Talk about how the UK can put pressure on other countries to cut their emissions.
