Wednesday, October 28, 2009

INTRO TO GLOBAL WARMING

What Exactly is Global Warming, and Why Should We "Go Green?"

WHAT IS GLOBAL WARMING?
Global warming is the effect of climate changes taking place in the Earth’s ecosystem. The main reason why it exists today can be traced to industry and technology sectors that produce waste and pollution. Our own impact on the environment also leads to increasing landfills, waste products in lakes and streams, and stacks of non-recyclable material goods.

Toxic fumes and gases from cars, power plants, engines and factories all lead to dangerous emissions. In turn, these have an impact on the Earth, creating an imbalance in the Earth’s atmosphere. Carbon emissions in particular can have a devastating effect on nature. While electricity and technology are necessary for most lifestyles, the side effects of excessive energy usage and toxic waste buildup are leading to serious problems throughout the world.

OUR CARBON FOOTPRINT
According to StopGlobalWarming.org, the United States is responsible for 22% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions. This means that we are using up a considerable amount of the world’s resources, which is especially harmful to natural forests, animals, and even villages and farms where the weather is an important part of daily living. Catastrophic weather patterns including severe floods, hurricanes, and even earthquakes can be linked to global warming and the shifts and imbalances in the Earth’s environment.

FIGHT GLOBAL WARMING
Efforts to combat global warming are becoming even more acceptable than ever before, and you’ve probably already come across dozens of eco-friendly projects and ideas. Many researchers and scientists are creating new ways for us to obtain energy. Renewable energy sources are becoming valuable to a variety of industries including automobile manufacturers, natural foods, and even computers. Hybrid cars are just one way for us to reduce our ‘carbon footprint’ as the years go by. Eco-friendly clothing made from organic fibers and natural materials offers the fashion world a chance to change clothing standards toward a more earth-friendly approach.

Famous faces and celebrities such as Sienna Miller, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Matt Damon are all making efforts to share the green movement with Hollywood, giving us many options to join in and learn more. From t-shirts that share a conservation message, to buying eco-friendly accessories and products, it’s easy to stay fashionable and support the environment in the process. Stopping global warming will take time and a joint effort of many communities, but simply starting a recycling program can be a strong step in the "green" direction!

Take this quiz to find out how green you are!


Are you looking to be more eco-friendly? Take our quiz to find out how 'green' you already are, and get tips on living a 'greener' lifestyle!
Take this quiz to find out how green you are!

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Climate talks in London

London is hosting climate talks to determine how to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. ITN's Tom Clarke reports.

Sunday, October 18, 2009

Global warming goals

The United States says developing countries must do more to stop climate change.

South Korea's green new deal

South Korea plans on revamping its economy to a shade of green.

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

To offset carbon dioxide, a Japanese airline is asking its passengers to go to the toilet before boarding.

(CNN) -- To offset carbon dioxide, a Japanese airline is asking its passengers to go to the toilet before boarding.

All Nippon Airways is asking passengers to use the restroom before flying to reduce weight.

The unusual request by All Nippon Airways (ANA) is part of its "e-Flight" promotional program to reduce the amount of carbon expelled on 38 domestic routes and its twice daily international flights to Singapore.

"Asking passengers to go to the toilet (before boarding) is just a small part of the program," said spokeswoman Megumi Tezuka, which includes using recycled paper cups and plastic bottles instead of glass.

"We are making these items lighter -- and making the passengers lighter, a little bit," Tezuka said.

The airline estimates that if 50 percent of passengers relieved themselves before boarding, it would reduce carbon dioxide by 4.2 tons a month.

Green and friendly skies

CNN's Andrew Stevens looks at the current state of airlines efforts to be environmentally friendly.

Saturday, October 10, 2009

Fighting climate change

CNN's Becky Anderson speaks with boxing heavyweight Evander Holyfield about his fight with climate change