Also startling new research shows that most Welsh people are ready to make lifestyles changes to help the environment. Three quarters of people in Wales (74 per cent) believe that their high consuming lifestyles are damaging the environment with six in ten people (60 per cent) willing to make pro-environmental lifestyle changes such as buying more energy efficient appliances, organic local food or recycling and car sharing.

The findings are presented on the day that 15 organisations from the private, public and academic sectors have come together to launch the Reducing Wales' Ecological Footprint report. It will be received by Rhodri Morgan, First Minister for Wales at the Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff.

"From climate change to waste mountains, our impact on the planet is undeniable. The Reducing Wales' Ecological Footprint report identifies Welsh policies and practice to reduce Wales' environmental impact on the planet as well as producing information on how consumers can make positive lifestyle changes to reduce their Footprints. Through using this research everyone can play a role in ensuring we have a Wales that is fit for future generations," said Stuart Bond, Sustainable Development Officer for WWF Cymru.

"Our survey demonstrates that increasingly people in Wales are becoming more environmentally aware and expect strong leadership from Governments to tackle the ongoing threats of climate change, waste mountains and traffic congestion," added Stuart.

Dr John Barrett, one of the report's authors said: "While some good work has been done in Wales to bring about a more sustainable society, present policies will not be sufficient to reduce the consumption of materials, the production of waste and the Ecological Footprint to a sustainable level.

A more radical agenda is required that helps to prepare Wales for a more sustainable future. We would like to continue our involvement to help the Welsh Assembly to implement the policy recommendations we have made."

Also at the launch Jake Fox, 11 winner of WWF Cymru's 'Tread Lightly on the Earth competition' will receive his prize from Rhodri Morgan, First Minister of Wales. His poem, 'Y Byd ' (The World) impressed judges because he identified ways he and his family can reduce their Footprint. Jake, 11 is a pupil at Ysgol Gynradd Pennant, near Oswestry.

Top tips for reducing your footprint

• Consider the impact of flying, either for business or for holidays - fly less if possible. Choosing one long-haul flight less per year could reduce your footprint by 24 per cent. One long-haul return flight can give the same footprint as driving a car for one year!
• Take public transport, walk or cycle whenever possible. Carbon dioxide emissions from transport increased by 98 per cent between 1971 and 2001
• Sign up to a green electricity tariff and buy your energy from a green electricity provider. To switch to a credible green supplier visit www.ecotricity.co.uk or call free on 08000 326 100
• Buy local rather than imported food. To find your nearest farmers' market visit Farmers Markets If you can't buy local, buy fairtrade products visit www.fairtrade.org.uk for a list of products
• Reduce the amount of waste you produce by recycling more paper, glass, cans and organic material. If there are no recycling facilities near you, contact your local council
• Conserve energy by better insulating your home, switching off lights and using energy efficient domestic appliances. For full details on making your home more energy efficient please visit www.saveenergy.co.uk
• Ask your local councillor, AM, MP and MEP what action their political party is taking to protect the environment. Make your voice heard!

For further information about how to reduce your own ecological footprint visit the Re-Think section of our website.