The coolest suit in town

A London tailor today unveiled the first "carbon-negative" bespoke suit.

The makers of the £495 garment promise to offset three times the carbon emissions generated in its manufacturing and transportation. A carbon-neutral suit would be one where emissions were offset exactly.

Charcoal & Chalk, based in Covent Garden, will invest in renewable energy and tree planting schemes via the Woodland Trust.

Managing director Austen Pickles said the limited edition collection could give it an edge over competitors.

"The Beyond Carbon Neutral suit represents the best in British tailoring and innovation," he said. "Despite the downturn, ethics will continue to be a very important part of the decision-making process for consumers."