A TOWN has won national recognition for its efforts to protect the environment.

Middlesbrough has been named a One Planet Living council, an initiative by entrepreneurial charity Bio Regional to help achieve greener, cheaper and healthier lifestyles.

Mayor Ray Mallon said: "Middlesbrough has wholeheartedly embraced the principles of One Planet Living and they inform how we plan and deliver our services.

"By making gradual changes to the way we do things, for example in the way the people of Middlesbrough eat, travel and dispose of their waste, we are turning the town into a more sustainable community, which simply means living a quality life within the resources the planet can provide.

"The designation of Middlesbrough as a One Planet Living town is recognition of the invaluable work that continues here as we strive to create a sustainable future."

Bio Regional co-founder Pooran Desai said: "Middlesbrough Council is already saving thousands of pounds from saving energy and water. We are excited to be working with Middlesbrough and look forward to sharing more ideas from our international network."