Help Stop Global Warming: Your Guide To A Greener, Cleaner (Cooler) Planet
Help Stop Global Warming: Your Guide To A Greener, Cleaner (Cooler) Planet
The subject is no longer up for debate: the planet is getting warmer, and we (humans) are a large part of the problem.
It’s time to take action! If you’ve always wanted to “go green,” but haven’t fully committed to sustainability, now is the time to start living a greener, cleaner (and hopefully, cooler) life.
Below, we’ve outlined a few steps you can take to help stop global warming.
Calculate Your Carbon Footprint. When you calculating your carbon footprint, the number derived represents your personal impact on global warming and climate change. Calculate yours today here. Is your number higher than expected? Take a look at the factors that make up your carbon footprint and try to cut back on the most offending sources.
Reduce Your Carbon Emissions, In Any Way Possible. This can mean anything from replacing your appliances and changing light bulbs to energy-efficient models to purchasing an electric/hybrid car, or even committing to biking/walking or carpooling instead of driving solo (whenever possible). Be conscious of your electricity usage, unplug appliances whenever possible, and opt for rechargeable devices instead of those which require single-use batteries.
Be sure to check out our top tips on reducing your energy use (and your electric bill) here.
Recycle. We’re not just talking about tossing your soda cans in the blue bin. Recycle anything and everything that you can, and be aware of your community or neighborhood’s recycling programs and policies. If your local recycling program doesn’t accept certain materials, save them and make a monthly run to your local Household Hazardous Waste Facility, instead.
Shop Local. Eating, shopping, and buying local food/products is a great way to support sustainability, as well as your local economy.
Conserve Water. Take shorter showers, only run full loads of dishes/laundry, fix all faucet leaks, and never leave the hose running outside. Take two minutes to read these handy tips on water conservation.
Spread the Word. Another great way to help stop global warming is to volunteer/get involved with green efforts in your community. Here are a few ideas on how you can make a difference.
Request a Report Card for Your Home or Apartment. Many utility companies offer free home energy reports/audits to help homeowners identify specific areas that may need improvement. If you’re a renter, ask your landlord if he/she will reimburse you/offer rent-reduction incentives for installing energy-efficient appliances or home improvements.
Carbon Offsetting is another way to help stop global warming. These “carbon credits” go towards green/sustainable initiatives and projects around your community and across the country. Find out more about carbon offsetting here, or online at www.justgreencommunity .com.
Global warming is one of the biggest issues facing our planet today. Together, we can make a difference! Do you have tips or additional information on how to stop global warming? Leave your suggestions in the comments, below, or tell us on Facebook and Twitter!
Resources:
http://environment.about.com/od/globalwarming/tp/globalwarmtips.htm
