The Royal Society of Chemistry is scrutinising every aspect of its own energy footprint, from its use of building lighting to the travel arrangements of its staff around the UK and overseas.

Chemistry is one of the keys to preventing the climate catastrophes now being suggested as the consequences of global warming and the RSC has been aware for some time that if it is to tell others how to cut their carbon output then the organisation has to address its own practices.

Chief executive Dr Richard Pike said today:  "Everybody, in every stratum of national life, must now reflect on our use of energy and upon its impact on the planet. Every household has to examine the way it operates from hour to hour even if it means having some sharp exchanges about family members' delinquent waste of power by moving from room to room without switching off the lights or equipment such as televisions."

"And some of the many questions that we have to ask ourselves are:

"Is it necessary for council park keepers and wealthy residents to shepherd autumn leaves around with energy-guzzling leaf blowers? You see them everywhere this month and ask yourself what is wrong with a good old-fashioned broom which does the job more efficiently in half the time at no cost?

"Is it necessary to transport yoghurt from far parts of France to the UK?

"Is it right that Arsenal's new stadium is alive with lights and television screens in early daylight on non-match days?"