Читать книгу Climate Change For Dummies - Elizabeth May - Страница 37

You’re a vital part of the climate change solution, too. As a citizen, you can ensure that governments recognize the importance of global warming and follow through on their promises. As a consumer, you can support companies that are making the biggest strides in fighting climate change and encourage other companies to make reducing GHGs a priority. If you’re really passionate about having your voice heard, you might even want to consider joining a group dedicated to spreading the word about global warming. We tell you how you can get involved in Chapter 15.

You can also make many changes in your daily life — some that seem small, some less so — that cut back on the carbon emissions for which you’re responsible. You’re probably already familiar with many of the little steps you can take to be more climate friendly:

 Making your home more energy efficient: Better insulate your roof, basement, and walls; seal your windows; and replace your old light bulbs with LEDs.

 Reducing the amount of garbage you produce: Take a reusable bag with you when you shop, buy unpackaged goods, and recycle and reuse materials.

 Using energy wisely: Turn off lights and appliances when you’re not using them, use the air conditioner less in the summer, and turn down the heat in the winter.

Did you know that many of your appliances are gobbling electricity, causing the emission of GHGs, even when those appliances are turned off? Or that putting a lid on pots on your stove makes your food cook more efficiently?.

Not every action that you can take to cut back on your GHG emissions is manageable — not everyone can yet buy a hybrid or electric car or build a home that doesn’t rely on major power producers for energy. But, hopefully, we suggest some options in this book that fit your situation and can help you to make a difference.

Global warming affects everyone, and everyone can play an important role in stopping it. Balance the doom and gloom and — start thinking about the exciting opportunities you have to make a change.