By Theresa Ficazzola
Approximately 400,000 people marched through the streets of New York City on September 21st to draw attention to climate change. The rally coincided with a week-long climate change meeting at the United Nations in Manhattan where world leaders once again tried to devise a plan to help save the earth from global warming. Similar rallies were held in other countries around the globe.
So, what’s at stake? Simply put…the very existence of our planet as we know it. If we want a planet that future
generations can enjoy, we must do something to stop climate change today.
Climate Change
Climate change is real. Temperatures are rising. Droughts are plaguing certain areas while hurricanes and typhoons are hitting others. The ozone layer is shrinking, contributing to those higher temperatures, crop damage, wild fires, and more cases of skin cancer. But there is a slight glimmer of hope.
A new study released by the U.N. this month shows that the ozone layer, which helps protect us from the sun’s harmful rays, is actually beginning to recover. That victory is partly a result of the Montreal Protocol which called for the phase out of man-made chlorofluorocarbons, or CFCs, that were used in aerosol cans and refrigerants. It was these CFCs that were largely contributing to the depletion of the ozone layer.
It’s taken about 35 years to see any improvement; however, it proves that people can make a difference if they come together. While that tiny piece of good news is encouraging, there is so much more that needs to be done.
Carbon Emissions
Carbon emissions from burning coal and other fossil fuels remain a big concern. The New York Times reported a 2.3% increase in greenhouse gas emissions in 2013, a record. While levels have been falling in the Western world, they have been increasing in the East, particularly in China and India where their economies are growing.
World leaders have been trying to make an impact here for almost two decades. Unfortunately, governments haven’t been able to find a viable solution. The costs of developing, building and maintaining alternative fuel sources seem to outweigh the immediate benefits of countries dependent on energy from coal to fuel their economies.
Deforestation
The reduction in the amount of trees due to illegal logging and deforestation are eliminating the habitats of hundreds of plants and animals, interrupting the circle of life and the food chains that rely on them. Less trees also means less vegetation to convert harmful carbon dioxide into the oxygen we need to survive.
But here, too, there has been some progress. Some international companies have stepped up, including using solar energy to power their buildings and equipment and pledging to reduce deforestation. Kimberly Clark Worldwide, Inc., for example, is planting three trees for every one they cut down to make their Scotties Tissues. The company also belongs to the Sustainable Forestry Initiative.
Do Your Part
Some governments and corporations are doing their part, so what about you?
Here are some green tips to get you started. For more ideas, sign up for SI Solar’s Twitter Feed and receive additional green tips as they are posted.
- Take public transportation.
- If you need to use your car, then combine errands in one trip.
- Don’t idle your car.
- Keep your car tuned up.
- Drive the speed limit for better gas mileage.
- Organize a car pool, ride your bike, or walk.
- If you lose a tree on your property due to a storm, plant a new one.
- Purchase products and services from “green” companies or those which pledge to do their part to protect the earth.
- Consider purchasing an all-electric or hybrid car.
- Get solar panels for your home or business. Many companies, such as SI Solar, offer low cost financing options or zero down programs.
There’s no telling how much progress we can make to save the earth if we collectively work together. Every little bit helps, no matter how small the contribution, so don’t be hesitant to join the movement!
