BUSINESSES are being asked to stand up to climate change.

As part of World Environment Day on Friday locals are being encouraged to take some basic steps to help them deal with the impacts of climate change.

Rossendale Council is working to help the Government's Environment Agency spread the message to local businesses that they can stand up to climate change and its effects in a number of ways.

These effects include flooding, overheating and scarcity of water.

Coun Peter Steen said: "Businesses are more likely to be flooded than burn down, resulting in devastating financial loss, yet fire safety is usually considered more important.

"By taking action to prepare in advance for flooding, businesses can save as much as 90per cent on the cost of lost stock and moveable equipment, as well as a lot of stress."