What are ways to stop global warming?

Automobiles pollute the air with about 1.5 billion tons of carbon dioxide each year.

Greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide and other pollutants, collect in the atmosphere, trap heat from the sun and cause the planet to warm. Global warming has adverse effects on weather patterns, human health, wildlife, sea levels and the glaciers. By using less energy, you lower the demand on power plants, which means less pollution. Couple energy conservation with increasing your reliance on renewable energy sources, and you can reduce greenhouse emissions and help stop global warming. (See References 1)

Use Less Electricity

Increase the efficiency of your heating and cooling systems by cleaning air filters regularly, adding insulation in the attic and basement, and sealing air leaks and air ducts. Unplug power cords when not in use and use a power strip to turn off computers, printers and other electronics. Buy Energy Star lightbulbs, appliances, windows, heating and cooling equipment, and electronics. (See References 2) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency places the Energy Star Label on products that meet energy-efficiency requirements based on EPA specifications (see References 3).

Save Fuel

Use a push mower to mow the lawn instead of a gas or electric mower. Rather than driving your car to work every day, use public transportation, carpool, ride a bicycle or walk. Improve the gas mileage of your automobile by performing regular maintenance, checking and replacing the air filter regularly and keeping the tires well inflated. Excess weight in a vehicle can affect the gas mileage, so unload unnecessary items from the trunk and remove roof racks when not in use. (See References 2)

Conserve Water

Municipal water systems use up a lot of energy purifying and distributing water to households. Taking actions to conserve water, especially hot water, lowers greenhouse emissions. Look for water-efficient products made by EPA partners that display the WaterSense label when purchasing faucets, showerheads and toilets. Conserve by watering the lawn only when necessary, turning the water off when brushing your teeth or shaving, taking a three-minute shower instead of a bath and fixing leaky faucets and toilets. Use a high-efficiency washing machine, wash only full loads of laundry and wash in cold water. (See References 2)

Use Green Power

Purchase environmentally friendly green power electricity. Green power is generated from renewable energy sources such as the sun and wind, producing lower greenhouse emissions (see References 2). Locate participating green power utilities in your area by visiting the EPA website (see References 4). Other options for creating a greener home include installing solar panels or generating your own green power (see References 2).

• Help stop global warming
• Why should we stop global warming?
• Reasons to stop global warming
• Ways to stop global warming
• What to do to stop global warming?