How To Help Reduce Climate Change

How To Help Reduce Climate Change

By John de Waal

Climate Change is real. NOAA and NASA data show that the Earth’s average surface temperature has increased 1.2 to 1.4ºF since 1900 with the warmest global average temperatures on record within the past 15 years. Most of the warming is the result of human activities and changes in rainfall patterns, snow and ice cover, and sea levels. Climate Change is devastating our nation and planet. Bernie Sanders wants the United States to lead the world in combating climate change and transforming our energy system away from fossil fuels and toward energy efficiency and sustainability. In addition to vote for him, you can

1. Walk, cycle or take public transportation whenever you can, or car share and use the most fuel-efficient vehicle possible, because transportation causes about 25 per cent of greenhouse gas emissions,

2. Switch off lights, change light bulbs to compact fluorescents, unplug computers, TVs and other electronics when not in use. Wash clothes in cold or warm (not hot) water; hang dry when you can, install a programmable thermostat. Look for the Energy Star® label on new appliances. Use a solar system for your hot water and get solar panels to reduce your carbon footprint.

3. Ask your utility to switch your account to clean, renewable power.

4. Buy organic and locally grown foods or grow your own. Avoid meat and dairy.

5. Compost kitchen scraps and garden trimmings and recycle paper, plastic, metal and glass because garbage in landfills produces methane. Let stores know you want recyclable packaging.

6. Ask your governor to implement a carbon tax to make polluting more expensive and make energy-efficient businesses and households save money.

7. Reduce air travel. Consider a bus or train and vacation closer to home. Stay in touch via Skype.

8. Follow the latest news about climate change and share this with friends and neighbors.

9. Cut your lawn with an electric or push mower instead of a gasoline-powered one.

10. Plant a tree or two.