- Climate change caused due to human activities has been scientifically agreed upon. Many claim that there is great debate amongst scientists as to whether climate change is real or not, but the fact is that the most respected scientific bodies in the world have clearly stated that climate change is absolutely occurring. [ref.]
Climate change due to human activities is occurring. If we just ignore its existence the results will be deadly. We must acknowledge it as a reality and make the necessary steps to reduce its effects.
- If every home in the U.S. changed just one of their regular light bulbs to a compact fluorescent bulb enough green house gases would be prevented to equal the emissions of over 800,000 vehicles. [ref.]
Compact fluorescents cost a little more in the stores than regular light bulbs to purchase, but the bulbs can last up to 7 years and cut your energy use more than in half saving much more than they cost. Imagine the impact you can have on the environment and your wallet if you make the commitment to only use compact fluorescents in your home and office.
- Cars, trucks and other vehicles account for almost 1/3 of the United States air pollution. [ref.]
Obviously vehicles leave a major mark on the environment. If we can limit the amount we drive, or drive better vehicles that give out less emissions when we do drive, then we can have a considerable positive impact on air pollution.
- About 75 percent of the energy consumed by home appliances occurs while they're turned off but still plugged in. [ref.]
Take an inventory of all of your plugged in appliances, televisions, d.v.d. players, toasters, blow dryers. 75% of the energy they use is when they are plugged in and not even being used. The first step to reducing this waste in energy is to plug all of your cords into surge protectors that can be turned off an on as needed. Not only will you help the environment but you will be helping your wallet at the same time.
-The U.S., with a population of 301 million, consumes more fossil fuels than any other country in the world including China whose population is 1.3 billion. [ref. 1] [ref. 2] [ref. 3]
The world has become hugely dependent on fossil fuels, or petroleum. The emissions from the burning of these fuels are a major contributor in climate change. Because we have become so dependent on vehicle transportation, we must be very careful as to use alternative transportation that does not take fossil fuels and must be aware of the types of vehicles we drive and what kind of impact they are having on the environment.