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The consensus of the world's leading scientists is that global warming is real and already under way. For natural ecosystems around the globe, its effects could be devastating. All plants and animals, no matter where they live, will be affected in some way. A changing climate has the potential to lead to the mass extinction of numerous species.
Global warming is a pollution problem. If we are to protect natural ecosystems around the world, we must take steps today to reduce our pollution by using energy more efficiently and switching to clean, nonpolluting energy sources like wind and solar power. Our cars, power plants, homes and offices can be made more efficient. Making our cars, sport-utility vehicles and other light trucks go farther on a gallon of gas is the biggest single step we can take to curb global warming.
Global warming is the most severe threat facing the environment today. We cannot truly begin to protect the world's plants and animals without addressing it. Our success in facing global warming will determine whether we leave our children a clean, sustainable world or a planet that is altered for the worse by climate change.
As you replace your appliances, select the most energy-efficient models possible. Look for the EPA's Energy Star label. Drive efficiently. Combine trips, and car pool when you can. Better yet, take public transit, walk or bicycle. Don't drive a gas-guzzling car, SUV or mini-van. When you buy a car, make sure
it's the most efficient one that suits your needs. Aim for a vehicle that gets at least 35 miles per gallon. Consider buying an advanced-technology car like a gasoline/electric hybrid. Use compact fluorescent light bulbs. Each one can prevent more than 500 pounds of coal from being burned to generate electricity. Plant a tree, protect a forest. Trees absorb CO2 from our air, and they shade your house, saving on air conditioning. Contact your public officials and urge them to support strong efforts to reduce U.S. greenhouse-gas emissions significantly below 1990 levels by the year 2008.
Urge them to:
- Support the biggest single step we can take to curb global warming -- raising mile-per-gallon (CAFE) standards for cars, SUVs and light trucks.
- Promote renewable (wind and solar) energy and fuel-cell technology.
- Support improved efficiency standards for electronics and home appliances.
To contact your congressperson or senator,
call the U.S. Capitol Switchboard at (202) 224-3121.
Call President Bush at (202) 456-1111, or write:
President George W. Bush
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20510
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