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Calculating Our Impact on the Global Climate

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Calculating Our Impact on the Global Climate In considering environmental problems, including global climate change, it is important to understand how we contribute to the change in the global climate. Using the carbon calculator on The Inconvenient Truth Web site, my estimated greenhouse gas emissions are 14 tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) equivalent per year, which is below the U.S. national average.

To reduce my climate impact, there are many simple things I can change in my everyday behavior that will make a big difference in the fight to slow climate change. For instance, I can install efficient lighting and windows in my 3 bedroom townhouse.

In the calculator report, I changed the type of car I drive and my total emission of carbon is now 12 tons per year. Surprisingly, this minor adjustment makes a difference to my total.

Takepart (2000) states that, “In 2006, An Inconvenient Truth woke up the world to the reality of the climate crisis, but the global leaders failed to act.”

As individuals, we can “Take Action Now.” After reviewing this particular section of the Web site, I have identified three easy measures that I can adopt. These measures involve using my voice to talk about what is happening to the planet to shape public opinion, walking or biking instead of driving, and switching-out old light bulbs for LED.

However, there are three more complex measures to reduce my CO2 emission, such as becoming a climate leader, getting involved with climate organizations in my community and joining some of the nation’s largest environmental advocacy groups like the National Resources Defense Council (NRDC). I plan to take small steps to implement one or two of these complex measures. In questioning why, I am currently a college student, have a full-time job, and a caregiver to my 3 year old granddaughter.

Personally, global climate

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