Make a difference!

Recently, I was asked how we can reduce air pollution to slow global warming. Putting the brakes on global warming is a monumental task that is indeed global. This is a worldwide problem. But as individuals, we can make a difference if we follow some simple steps:

Recycle, recycle, and recycle! I recycle aluminum cans, newspapers, and plastics, it is soooo easy. This may sound trivial but keep in mind the amount of trash that goes into landfills. Plastics and aluminum do not compost. Recycling even a portion of this garbage across the country helps our environment. If you are wondering how recycling ties into air pollution, if everyone recycled, we wouldn't have to mine or remove as much raw materials from the earth. This would reduce the pollutants being spewed into our air by everything from mining equipment to chainsaws to log skidders. Recycling newspapers reduces the number of trees being logged for paper products. Trees produce oxygen that benefits us all.

Another way you can make a difference is by conserving energy at home and in the office. This is an easy thing to do that is often overlooked. If you leave a room, turn off the light switch. I am not saying to live in the dark, just try to live in moderation.

Finally, vote for politicians that have a history of, or profess to, protect the environment. By and large, the United States Government has the reins when it comes to the air we breathe and global warming. “The U.S. government provides about $25 billion in annual subsidies to fossil-fuel industries.” (Michael Grunwald, in Warming to the Inconvient Facts, 2006,2) As long we elect politicians that are the lapdogs of fossil fuel companies and automakers, little will be done to combat global warming. Take the initiative! Research candidates on the internet or in the newspaper, then take a stand and vote.

References

Grunwald, Michael (2006) November 21, 2006 Warming tothe Inconvient Facts

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/07/21/AR2006072101376.html