BY 2020, two-car families and hot baths could be some of the modern luxuries consigned to history, experts have warned.

The message from the Energy Saving Trust comes as the nation marks energy-saving week this week.

The trust's new report reveals how major lifestyle changes could be forced upon us in as little as 15 years if people do not act now to reduce escalating levels of carbon dioxide emissions.

The independent research reveals Worcester households are responsible for creating a total of 205,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions a year.

The figures, part of a nationwide study, also show that cars in the city are responsible for creating 111,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions every year.

A panel of experts has predicted two alternative scenarios for life in 2020 in the report 2020 Futures: Energy And Waste In An Age Of Excess.

And two-car families, time-saving appliances, trendy gadgets and restful baths are just some of the modern luxuries some experts predict could be banished by 2020 if we fail to take action now.

Rocketing fuel prices and mass migration inland as a result of coastal flooding - due to rising sea levels caused by ice melting - are just some of the trust's predictions.

But, experts say, personal power stations in houses, prefabricated homes and carbon trading could become more prevalent if people become more environmentally-aware.

Trust chief executive Philip Sellwood said: "The bleak picture of life in 2020 can be easily avoided just by taking small measures now to reduce excess levels of carbon emissions - one of the leading contributors to climate change.

"We're optimistic a step-change in the way we view our energy consumption in the home will see an energy-efficient future emerging, where consumers recognise their own responsibility to create a sustainable environment for future generations."

The trust recommends various measures to make big savings for the environment as well as people's finances, including filling cavity walls and insulating lofts.

For more information on energy saving, log on to: www.saveyour20percent.co.uk or call 0800 9157722.