Going green for Lent

New Haven, Conn. (WTNH) - Today marks the beginning of Lent, and for many people that means giving up things like chocolate and soda. But this year, there is a push for folks to give up the amount of carbon-based energy they use.

For Christians, Lent is a season of sacrifice, a season to simplify.

"Well, it was going to be chocolate, but maybe this year I could give up chocolate and, you know, do the same thing - turn off a light bulb or something like that. I have no problem giving up more than one thing for the greater cause," said Lindsey Robillard of New Haven.

The idea is being met pretty well among parishioners outside the Ash Wednesday Service at St. Aiden Catholic Church in New Haven. Why not spend little less time on the computer? How about walking or biking instead of driving? You could even see if you can live without a light once in awhile.

"Lent should be something that you have a hard time doing. Like you should give something up that's hard for you -- so if you listen to your iPod everyday. If it helps the environment and it's something hard for you then it works both ways," said Hillary Lamb of New Jersey.

The idea is being promoted by a British charity and it's spreading among many faith-based groups.