Over the next decade, critical policy decisions will be made with irreversible consequences for the future. Dr. James Hansen, the top US government climate scientist, believes that if we do not stabilize greenhouse gas emissions soon, we may set in motion a process leading to the collapse of the West Antarctic and Greenland Ice sheets, events that would raise global sea levels by over 40 feet, inundating many of the world's major cities. This, of course, is just one of the myriad potential consequences of human-induced warming, with regional and global impacts ranging from hurricanes of greater intensity and duration, global water shortages, altered patterns of rainfall, drought and flood, massive forest die-back, and large-scale species extinction. — FOCUS NATION
Can one person really help? YES! We can start by educating ourselves and those around us. Change is hard, but we believe we can all help contribute in our own small ways to save the future of the world and fight against global warming! You can start in your own homes.
Here are 10 helpful hints for household changes that are small, but make a big difference:
1. Compost Everything but the Kitchen Sink.
Not only does composting kitchen and yard waste invigorate soil, but it also reduces methane gas emissions. Composting serves as a kind of carbon sink, storing carbon in the soil instead of in the atmosphere.
2. Share.
Didn't your mother always tell you to share? If you only use your tent, ladder, or video player once in a while, consider lending it to others. Some communities have a shared tool shed. Workplaces have book exchanges. Or, you and a friend can team up to buy rarely used items. Sharing decreases the energy and pollution from mining, manufacturing, packaging, and transporting new goods.
3. Get a New A/C Filter.
Cleaning or replacing your air conditioner filters increases efficiency and makes it run in peak condition. Filters can be found along the length of the return duct in walls, ceilings, furnaces, or in the air conditioning unit itself. In window units, filters may lie inside of the air conditioner or they may slide out. See this list of helpful tips on buying an efficient air conditioner.
4. Go on a Tree Spree.
Planting trees removes carbon from the atmosphere, filters air, and prevents soil erosion. It's best to plant trees native to your area that don't require heavy irrigation.
5. Go Organic.
Besides being good for you, organic produce also helps fight global warming. Organic farms capture carbon dioxide from the air and trap it in the soil. In fact, organic soils contain up to 28% more carbon than other soils.
6. Go on a Recycling Binge.
Virgin materials require massive amounts of resources, and their production generates greenhouse gases. If you're reading this website, chances are you already recycle. Don't stop there. Examine ways to increase your recycling rate! Get your friends, family, coworkers, church, community group, and local businesses to recycle, too.
Here are a few more links that can help educate you and those around you:
For more helpful hints or any concerns on how you can help fight for our world's future please email or call us today!
