You Too Can Help Slow Climate Change
Amid the never-ending reports of global warming and the dire predictions of scientists and environmentalists, have you ever found yourself wondering what you could do to help slow global climate change?
Before offering some tips on steps you can take as an individual, it is important to understand one basic fact about climate change: the level of energy emissions is directly related to the rate of climate change. If the demand for energy can be reduced, the level of emissions, and therefore the rate of climate change, can be reduced as well.
Now, here are ten things you can do to help slow the rate of climate change:
1. Use Fluorescent Light Bulbs: one fluorescent light bulb can last as long as thirteen regular light bulbs, and use only a fraction of the energy.
2. Drive Fuel Efficient Cars: Not only will you save money on gasoline, but you will reduce the level of carbon dioxide emissions from your car and help reduce global warming.
3. Air Dry Dishes: Instead of running the heated drying cycle on your home dishwasher, air drying your plates, bowls, utensils, etc. on a dish rack reduces the amount of energy being consumed.
4. Turn Down Your Hot Water Heater: Reducing the temperature on your hot water to 120 degrees saves energy, and energy-related costs.
5. Wash in Cold Water: If you use the proper detergent, washing in cold water instead of hot can get your clothes just as clean, while using less energy and reducing overall energy demand and costs.
6. Carpool: Carpooling to work or school reduces the number of vehicles on the road, reduces carbon dioxide emissions, and save gas. An alternative to carpooling is public transportation. Another option is to walk or ride a bicycle if your destination is nearby.
7. Regulate Home Temperature: Setting your home thermostat comfortably low during cooler months and comfortably high during warmer months can greatly reduce energy demand and energy emissions.
8. Only Do Full Loads: Washing only full loads of dishes or clothes reduces the overall number of cycles, thus reducing the overall demand for energy.
9. Consider a Hybrid or Alternative Fuel Vehicle: Hybrids and alternative fuel vehicles are more efficient and require less energy, thus causing less damage to the environment.
10. Finally, Use Renewable Energy Sources: Wind and solar energy sources are becoming more readily available and offer a more efficient means for energy production. Check with your local utility to see if any renewable energy sources are available near you.
These are just a few of the many steps individuals can take to reduce the demand for energy, reduce energy emissions, and slow the rate of global climate change. If everyone gives just a little effort, maybe we can make a difference.
