Preventing global warming
In simple terms, global warming refers to an overabundance of carbon dioxide in our atmosphere. This carbon dioxide traps heat and acts like a blanket warming the earth. Humans are contributing to the excess amounts of carbon dioxide present in our atmosphere in many ways, such as car emissions, industrial pollutions, and electricity production by power plants. Global warming can be minimized to a great extent by eliminating the causes which are mostly manmade. Sadly, most people don’t bother to make necessary changes in their lifestyle as they don’t believe it will make a difference. This is a very costly misconception, both economically and environmentally, as a lot of the choices made daily have an enormous effect on global warming. A few small changes today can make the difference between a healthy or dying planet for the future generations. It is high time we examine our moral values and attitudes as they relate to our natural world.
A good way to uncheck our contributions towards global warming is to start from within the house, by conserving water and electricity. Remember that the process of generating both is a source of greenhouse gases. Appliances and electrical items not in use should be turned off and unplugged; most people are unaware that even when an item is switched off, some current continues to be pulled by the cords, especially items with large AC adapter units incorporated on their cords. Consider changing to energy-efficient compact fluorescent light bulbs; 90 billion pounds of carbon dioxide emission would be prevented from going into the atmosphere over the life of a bulb. When looking to buy appliances, look for those with energy star symbol; these appliances are designed to be more efficient in terms of energy use. Run the dishwasher only when it is full, and always run it on the lowest setting possible. Similarly, washer and dryer should be run using cold water with full loads, then hang the clothes to dry outside on a sunny day. Shortening daily showers is also an alternative; showers account for two-third of all water heating costs. If possible, switch to a tankless water heater so that the water will be heated only as needed, and not to store in a big tank. Consider insulating house’s walls to reduce the need for heating; turning down the heater by 1 degree Celsius actually saves 10% on energy bills.
A quarter of carbon dioxide emissions come from road transport. Alternatively, use public transport to reduce emissions; walk or cycle wherever possible. Fuel economy and emissions rate are important aspects to consider in our choice of car. Hybrids are great to those who can afford it, but many automakers are offering more fuel efficient vehicle now. Improve mileage by keeping the tires inflated and reduce emissions by replacing air filters when it is dirty. Better still, share a ride with friends or co-worker to keep unnecessary cars off the road and maybe improve the traffic too.
Another great way to reduce global warming is by recycling. Reuse of anything is the easiest and best way to recycle; also, remember that recycling is only effective with products made from recycled materials. Save containers, bags, everything that may be used in the future. Use cloth towels and napkins instead of paper ones, and use rechargeable batteries instead of disposable ones. Avoid disposable products and try to buy quality products that can be used for a long time; also, buy products with minimal packaging. Shop from local markets for products grown in the nearest area; this reduces transportation to bring these items. In addition, buy only seasonal produce to reduce demand for non-seasonable fruit and veggies that are imported from other areas.
