We, as humans, are the major contributing cause to global warming. Due to our increase in activities such as deforestation and burning of fossil fuels, we have effectively increased our concentration of greenhouse gases and have upset the balance of our atmosphere.
Co2 is, by far, one of the most important greenhouse gases because it contributes over 50 percent of the greenhouse effect, which is the layer of gases such as Co2, Nitrous Oxide, Methane that absorb the sun’s solar energy and warm the earth.
Miami-Dade County has implemented the Urban Co2 Reduction Program. This program’s goal is to reduce Co2 emissions by 20 percent of the 1988 levels over a 12 year period.
In 1988 our emissions totaled 23 million tons of of Co2 from combustion of fossil fuels. The emissions were 45 percent transportation, 45 percent electricity.
WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!
Below is a list of proactive things you can do to aid in the reduction of C02 emissions, conserve energy and stop global warming:
* Use mass transit or ride a bike instead of driving.
* Insulate your attic and walls.
* Install a radiant barrier to reduce heat buildup in the attic.
* Paint roof with a reflective or white coating.
* Install ceiling fans.
* Caulk and weather-strip around windows and doors.
* Upgrade old appliances with energy and money saving appliances.
* Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs.
* Turn off lights and air conditioner when not in the room.
* Re-use and recycle.
* Install low-flow shower-heads.
* Shade your outside air conditioning unit with trees and or shrubbery.
* Install a solar water heater.
* Plant native and drought tolerant shade trees on the south. east and west side of house.