- Get Outdoors
Photo by Tim Carr
- About the AWF
Photo by Tim Carr
- Programs
Photo by Tim Carr
- Take Action
Photo by Tim Carr
- Global Warming
Photo by Tim Carr
- Contact
- Join
Photo by Tim Carr
Photo by Tim Carr
Photo by Tim Carr
Photo by Tim Carr
Photo by Tim Carr
Many viable alternatives and solutions exist to our excessive fossil fuel consumption patterns. An effort on the part of U.S conference of mayors, which is a group of mayors from major U.S cities, passed a resolution recognizing global warming and setting the goal of reducing emissions inline with Koyoto levels (7% below 1990 levels by 2012) in their municipalities. Currently there are 255 signatories to this agreement including four Arkansas mayors. To view information aobut the Kyoto levels click here. A group of citizens can help push their mayors into signing this environmentally beneficial resolution for their city.
In addition there are many simple things individuals can do to lower energy consumption and slow the onset of global warming. This includes recycling, the use of public transportation, the use of renewable energy including solar and wind, buying locally, short showers versus long baths, and turning out the lights to name a few. Until CO2 emissions are regulated in this country an individual can take many steps to lower their own carbon footprint. If you are curious about how heavy your carbon footprint (CO2) measures up, you can check it at this page.
Furthermore there are solutions such as carbon sequestration; which is the removal of carbon from the atmosphere and feeding it to soils, forests, oceans, and other natural cycles, are becoming an option for the management of carbon in the atmosphere.To learn more about carbon sequestration go here.
In the end, lowering fossil fuel use will likely come from a combination of alternative technologies and practicing energy conservation and conscious consumption in our daily lives.
Legislation and Global Warming
Currently the U.S doesn’t regulate carbon emissions on the basis that it is not classified as a pollutant. Despite the number of developed nations who have signed on to the Kyoto protocol, the current administration is sticking to the argument that it will destroy the economy. However, global warming potentially poses the greatest risk human health the world has ever seen. Right now there is legislation being drafted known as the Climate Stewardship Act. This act seeks to regulate carbon emissions through a system of cap and trade, where C02 emitters can buy carbon credits to meet regulations on carbon. For more information about the climate stewardship act visit the UNFCC site or NRDC site. To view FAQ (frequently asked questions)to support the act visit the NRDC FAQ page. To view the Kyoto Protocol in laymans terms you can click here.
