Denial

I can't believe there are people, many in positions of power, who still deny that global warming exist, despite unrefuted scientific evidence. In fact, there is no significant disagreement within the scientific community that the Earth is warming and that human activities are the principal cause.

Ignorance is bliss, I guess. I wonder if the victims of Katrina, or the families of loved ones who recently died from the heat, are blissful now. Soon we'll all die from heat or flooding, and be extinct like the dinosaurs. And only the cockroaches will survive.

We need to be like our friends, the cochroaches, and do what we need to do to survive. We as people of the Western hemisphere have lived so comfortably for the last several centuries, and we have so much privilege and opportunity to change our bad habits that negatively affect people of poor and war-torn countries, vegetation, and animals of the world.

Like the thinning of the ozone layer, the effects of global warming are reversible... and it starts with personal use and conscientious consumption. Only until we can change the way we live, thereby changing market supplies and demands, is when major perpetrators like corporations will change. And you know our government will do whatever the corporations tell them to do.

In light of the unbearable heat and power shortages across the nation, here are some simple tips to saving energy:

• Appliance Maintenance

Your appliances need a tune-up too; clean all filters and coils.

• Clean Your Light Bulbs!

Don't forget to clean your light bulbs (while the power is off). Dust build up can reduce the light intensity by 25%.

• Enery-Efficient Applicances
  

When buying a new appliance, choose an energy-efficient one.

• Energy Efficient Light Bulbs

When replacing hard to reach light bulbs, such as exterior porch lights, switch to energy efficient compact florescent bulbs. You won't have to change them for seven years!

• Home Insulation

Make your home more energy efficient through improved insulation, caulking and weather-stripping. The less energy you use, the less impact you have on the environment.

• Set the thermostat

Install and use a programmable thermostat. For every 1° C you lower your thermostat you can save 2% on your heating bill. A reduction of 3° C at night and when you are away during the day provides optimal savings and can reduce your GHGs by half a ton.

• Wash with cold water

Wash your clothes using cold water. Many detergents clean just as well in cold water.

• Window Coverings

Use your window coverings to help warm or cool your house.

Here's another simple one: Turn off your lights, tv, computer, etc. when you're not using them! This is my ultimate pet peeve! Arrggghhhhh!