Yesterday we reported how the Welsh had been ‘slow to get the green message‘ but reports suggest that the point may also be lost in Northern Ireland.

Research from the Energy Saving Trust shows that seven out of ten motorists in Northern Ireland have no idea how green their cars are. Despite the fact that hundreds of pounds could be saved every year by picking green motor vehicles, the information still hasn’t been made widely available even though the Government has announced new car tax bands which penalise the least environmentally friendly vehicles.

According to the report, 69 per cent of drivers in Northern Ireland do not know how much carbon dioxide (CO2) their car emits. This is despite the fact that 55 per cent stated they would drive more efficiently if they were given the information as to how this could save them money and help the environment.

A huge 95 per cent of those surveyed said they want environmental features to be brought to their attention when they buy a car, which has led the Energy Saving Trust to call on manufacturers and dealers to assist customers in making greener choices.