EARTH DAY AND EVERY DAY
April 22nd, 2006
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Global warming, or climate change, can seem like an amorphous subject, but it can have real-life consequences for all of us. And there are simple activities we can all do in our homes and in our communities to lessen our impact on the environment around us. Greenhouse gases, especially carbon monoxide (CO2), are released by automobiles and energy plants that use fossil fuels, among other things. When we drive our cars, or use household appliances, we are burning fossil fuels that contribute to gases that bring about climate change. Don’t think climate change is real or affects the average person? Much of the United States has already warmed, by as much as 4°F. None of the lower 48 states in the U.S. experienced below average temperatures in 2002. In addition, with warmer ocean temperatures, hurricanes (among other natural disasters) are expected to increase in severity. One activity that helps includes planting a shade tree near one’s house. This helps to save electricity that would otherwise be used towards cooling the house in the summertime. It is estimated that a good shade tree can help one save up to 40% on cooling bills. It also lessens the amount of CO2 released by using extra energy. Switching standard light bulbs to energy efficient Compact Fluorescent Light bulbs (CFLs) also helps save energy and cut costs. Just by changing one light bulb to a CFL bulb in every house in America, it would be the equivalent of taking the pollution one million cars off the road. Changing light bulbs to energy-efficient CFL bulbs adds up to saved energy and saved money. Carpooling or ridesharing, is another way to help cut CO2 emissions, as well as save money in the face of steep gas prices. Many states have carpooling lanes, which can make commutes to work faster for those who drive. Fewer cars on the road during “rush hour” also means less fuel being burned great for the environment and the budget. A person can save hundreds of dollars a year in saved gas costs and parking fees, as well as saved hours. These are ways all of us can help lessen our impact on the environment, and do our individual and community parts to help stop climate change! www.earthday.net

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