How to Prevent Global Warming

Global warming refers to the Earth's air and oceans gradually heating up to a point that disrupts balance, a problem that is continually getting worse. It sounds like a problem too massive for any one individual to take on, but it really isn't. Combining any few of these suggestions can make more of a dramatic effect than most people understand. The goal is to emit less carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. Drive less. Take bikes, walk or carpool whenever possible.

2. Consider investing in a hybrid or electric vehicle to help prevent against further global warming.

3. Replace all the lightbulbs in and around your home with energy-efficient fluorescents that use fewer watts for the same amount of light.

4. Clean or replace your filters monthly.

5. Choose energy-efficient appliances when it's time to buy new ones.

6. Decrease your air travel.

7. Wash clothes in cold water and line-dry whenever possible.

8. Use a low-flow showerhead, which will lessen the hot water used but not drop your water pressure in the shower.

9. Cut down on your garbage-buy fewer packaged materials to prevent further global warming.

10. Unplug electronics when they are not in use, because they still take up energy. At the very least, turn items off when they're not being used.

11. Run the dishwasher and clothes washer only when you have a full load, and if available, use the energy-saving setting.

12. Insulate your home better, and don't forget to repair or replace worn caulking or weather-stripping. Insulate your water heater.

13. Buy recycled paper products and recycle as much of your waste as possible.

14. Bring your own reusable canvas grocery bags when grocery shopping.

15. Plant a tree.

16. Have an energy audit done on your home so you can find the trouble areas and fix them.

17. Use nontoxic cleaning products.

18. Shop locally for food. A farmer's market is an excellent place to visit. And choose fresh food over frozen foods. Fresh takes less energy to produce.

19. Keep your car tuned up, and check tire pressure often to save gas.

20. Eat less meat and more organic foods in your diet to do your part in preventing global warming.