Google is launching a carbon calculator to help people keep track of their CO2 emissions through a personalised home page.

The service will also provide a range of related information and services including individual action plans and relevant news feeds. And all data will be collated into the search engine's UK Carbon Footprint map.

The calculator was built in partnership with the Energy Saving Trust and the RSA. It also draws on the government's Act on CO2 calculator for its data, calculations and approved methodologies.

Environment secretary Hilary Benn said: "We have decided to share our calculator data to ensure that even more people have the chance to calculate their carbon footprint - and because it is so vital that we all work together in the fight against climate change."

Energy Saving Trust chief executive Philip Sellwood said: "The calculator is an excellent tool which enables people to find out their impact on the environment and gives them practical steps to reduce their carbon dioxide emissions.

"One of our main objectives was to help create a user friendly tool that would be both scientifically robust but at the same time practical to use and fun too."