BRENT councillors cut a carbon cake after promising to tackle climate change and reduce Brent's output of carbon dioxide by 13,000 tonnes over the next four years.

The decision, made by the executive committee on Monday, will save £3million in energy costs.

A cake illustrating the different percentages of carbon dioxide emitted by different parts of the council was cut to highlight the council's committment to improving the environment.

Council homes emit the most greenhouse gasses, followed by schools.

Cllr Paul Lorber, leader of Brent Council, said: "Climate change is the biggest issue facing us today, and it's essential that everyone does their bit to tackle it.

"I am delighted that the council is leading the way on this and am determined to do my bit personally as well. I already recycle, use energy efficient light bulbs and have reduced the length of time my gas boiler is on for - even during the winter - for example."

Brent Council is working on introducing a series of schemes such as loft insulation, sensor lighting, and boiler replacement to make its buildings more energy efficient as well as calling on its staff to be more environmentally-friendly in their working and personal lives.

More than 400 employees have pledged to switch off computers and lights, reduce and recycle waste, buy greener and locally-produced goods, and to use more environmentally-friendly ways of travel - instead of their cars - at least twice a week.