Things You Can Do to Reduce Global Warming

When it comes to putting forth an effort to help reduce global warning, the attitude of a number of people is that it won't make a bit of difference. This is not true. People all over the world are doing their part in helping to clean up the environment and the results have been incredible.

Recycling is a good place to start. It takes a bit of effort but why add to our already bulging landfills if it's not necessary?

Paper can be recycled as much as five times before it begins to break down. Millions of newspapers end up in garbage dumps around the world every day. Nearly fifty million newspapers hit the garbage daily in America alone. That's the equivalence of more than 500 trees!

Throwing aluminum cans away is a huge mistake as they can remain in a landfill for more than 200 years. Just one recycled can saves enough energy to run a washing machine through a whole cycle. Most people have no idea how much energy they are wasting by tossing aluminum cans into the trash.

Glass is also a tremendous waste in the garbage. Recycling a single glass bottle can save enough energy to light a 100-watt light bulb for 4 hours. Think of all the glass jars and bottles we throw away!

However, recycling is only one of the many things we can do to help reduce global warming. When using our heat or air conditioning we're probably losing a lot due to poor insulation. For a few dollars we can add insulation to our walls and attic which will not only help preserve the environment but will also save us money. The thermostat can also be adjusted to a more moderate setting.

Replacing regular light bulbs with CFL bulbs will help as well. They cost more but they last "forever" and are well worth the investment. Furthermore, turning off lights when not in use can save much more energy than most of us realize. It's amazing how much electricity we waste each month just by neglecting to turn off a light. How many times do we leave the porch light on all day? How about the garage or the patio?

Unplugging electrical devices that are not being used can also save a lot of energy. It's surprising how many things we have plugged in that we're not using such as can openers, coffee makers, fans, phone chargers and more.

One of the best ways to help reduce global warming is to plant trees. Those of us who have the room could plant at least one tree. A single tree will absorb approximately one ton of carbon dioxide during its lifetime. Trees absorb carbon dioxide and are essential in reducing global warming. Be sure to choose a tree that's right for the region it will be planted in. Fruit trees are good choices as they serve a dual purpose.

Car pooling is a great way to reduce emissions. Starting a car pool is relatively easy. Simply ask around at work or school if anyone wants to participate.

Washing clothes in cold water saves energy. Hanging clothes on a line rather than using a clothes dryer can save an enormous amount of electricity. Clothe lines are not difficult to construct if there's room for it.

Whether we recycle, add insulation, plant trees or all of the above, we must do something to help in the fight to reduce global warming. Contrary to popular belief, the planet did not evolve, it was created, and the One who created it is due to return any day now.

It is wrong to waste anything that can be used again. It is also wrong to squander our resources as if they reproduced spontaneously. It's not that we are thoughtless and uncaring. We have simply grown accustomed to a way of life without realizing the consequences.

The onset of global warming has manifested this reality and now that we have been made aware, now is the time to do something about it. It's just the right thing to do.

Interesting Reading:

Global Warming Solutions
Climate Change, Society and the Environment
Rising Sea Levels