By Krista Kurvits

Whether you believe in global warming or not, one thing that is undeniable is carbon dioxide concentrations in our atmosphere. We must reduce levels back to at least 350 parts per million as quickly as possible. The American responsibility to reduce emissions is unique. Our 4% of the planet’s human population accounts for 28% of its carbon legacy. One American’s carbon footprint is twice the size of many Western European countries!

Below are small steps we can use to make a big difference.

  1. Use less paper. Replace paper napkins and towels with reusable cloth. Buy recycled paper products, we have many good choices nowadays.
  2. Buy shade grown, fair trade coffee and chocolates. According to the Rainforest Alliance, deforestatiion accounts for 20% if worldwide greenhouse gas emissions. Consumer demand for products grown in the shade will help to ensure that rain forest canopies will stay in place.
  3. Lower our household thermostats below 70 degrees in winter and above 72 in the summer. Lowering hot water temps from the standard 140 degrees to 120 saves 200 pounds of carbon a year.
  4. Lighting takes up to 15% of a home’s energy use. Replace regular light bulbs with energy efficient ones. It can save you approximately $60. a year.
  5. Plug electronics into power strips and switch ‘em off at night. Cellphone chargers, computers, TVs and game consoles suck electricity even when they’re turned off. We
  6. can save up to $100 annually besides reducing carbon output.
  7. Eat more locally grown fruits and vegetables (localharvest.org). Livestock production is responsible for 18% of greenhouse gas emissions. And when you do eat meat, make it organic/ or locally grown.
  8. Rid our homes and gardens of synthetic pesticides-nervous system toxins that have been linked to ADD, lower birth weights, and other developmental problems. For DIY nontoxic pest control, see birc.org and watoxics.org.
  9. Water efficient fixtures and toilets can save thousands of gallons a year. (epa.gov/watersense)
  10. Cut back on plastics. They are made from petroleum. Many contain toxic BPA and phthalates, which can migrate into food, water and baby formula. Vinyl is no better. Go to greenerpenny.com for more info.
  11. Lastly, make sure our cars are tuned and tires rotated. In town drive with 1/2 a tank, less weight, more fuel efficiency. And when it’s possible don’t drive at all; buddy up. For more info go to Union of Concerned Scientists.