101 Ways You Can Prevent Global Warming

Nowadays, you can’t help but encounter the occasional story on CNN regarding the unusually hot summers, mild winters, and melting glaciers in the Antarctic. Global warming is becoming an increasingly scary problem, as all living creatures and the environment are feeling the effects of overall higher temperatures on a worldwide scale. As scientists rush to come up with solutions to this very real and threatening issue, many promote a wide-range of prevention methods that could make the difference in either doubling global warming pollution by 2050 or cutting it in half.

101 Ways You Can Prevent Global Warming

What is Global Warming?

Global warming is described as the increase in the average temperature of the air situated close to the Earth’s surfaces, as well as the oceans throughout the world [1]. Global warming deals with adjustments in climate, which is the pattern of weather over long-term circumstances. While the climate has always sustained change (getting both warmer or cooler over time), it is the speed of change associated with global warming that brings about the most concern. When the average global temperatures begin to increase, it is usually the Greenhouse Effect that is to blame [2].

The Greenhouse Effect is responsible for the 1-degree rise in the Earth’s surface temperature over the past 140 years, which at first glance doesnâ€™t seem like too much, but nonetheless has led to a wealth of large-scale troubles [2]. It is the presence of gases, such as carbon dioxide, water vapor, and methane within the atmosphere that permits incoming sunlight to pass through, but doesnâ€™t allow the proper release of heat back out. This is why this occurrence is likened to a greenhouse.

Global warming is an important topic to address because of the detrimental changes caused by its existence. Overall, it is the habits of humans that greatly contribute to the global warming problem through their industrial activities, everyday habits, and automobile dependency. One of the largest sources of carbon dioxide pollution in the United States includes coal-burning power plants, which produces 2.5 billion tons each year. Cars represent the second largest source of CO2 pollution, creating almost 1.5 billion tons on a yearly basis [3].

Over the years, researchers and scientists have developed an array of solutions pertaining to transportation issues, power plants, electricity, and a host of other factors that influences the global warming problem. While this is a great start towards lessening the effects of the issue, it is easier said than done, as it is much harder to encourage and push the entire world to put these solutions to good use.

The Negative Effects of Global Warming

Global warming affects humans, wildlife, and plants in many different ways. While the negative and influential changes in the environment have captured the attention of many, it is also the lesser-known occurrences taking place halfway around the world that needs attention. Below are just some of the unwanted effects associated with global warming:

a) Changes in the Environment:

Global warming is responsible for the increased rate of melting glaciers; the drying out of cloud forests, and rising sea levels. In such a short period of time (in regards to the geological record) humans have caused higher greenhouse gases now than in the last 650,000 years. Today, the last remaining ice sheets on Earth (found in places like Greenland and Antarctica) have begun to melt as well. It is believed that at the current rate of retreat, all of the glaciers in Glacier National Park will no longer exist by 2070 [4]. The extra water associated with melted glaciers may also raise sea levels to the point of destruction for neighboring countries and islands.

b) Wildlife Unable to Adapt:

polar bear dyingSince the natural habitats of creatures in the wild are constantly changing, animals must learn how to adapt to modifications in their surroundings, food supply, and climate. The worst cases are those who cannot find a way to become accustomed to the changes in their environment may face extinction. An example of this is seen in the polar bear dilemma, who are built to live and hunt on sea ice with partially webbed feet and water-repellant coats. Due to global warming pollution, Arctic sea ice is melting at an alarming rate, causing polar bears to drown and miss out on reaching their primary food source (seals) [5]. Today, ice also forms later in the fall and breaks up earlier in the spring, shrinking the time polar bears can forage for food.

c) Killing Plants, Animals, and Humans:

Slowly, the effects of global warming lead to more plant, animal, and human deaths. Depending on the location in the world, some species have completely died out or have relocated, leaving various destinations void of their unique examples of wildlife. Some species of foxes, butterflies, and alpine plants have traveled farther north or sought out higher, cooler regions to dwell.

d) Extinction of Plant and Animal Species:

Unable to acclimate to the changes in their environment, plants and animal species may succumb to the effects of global warming and become extinct. This is seen in the dying off of coral reefs. The threat to animal life is also seen in the decline of breeding pairs and altered reproduction efforts. In Antarctica, the past 30 years have seen 32,000 breeding pairs of Adelie penguins lowered to 11,000 [6].

e) Dangerous Weather Patterns:

Crazy Weather Patterns

Over the years, more extreme patterns of weather have taken place since the global warming issue has worsened. For instance, the amount and pattern of precipitation changes has increased the risk of floods. The frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, such as rainstorms and hurricanes are also affected. Dryer conditions in some locations also create severe dust storms, which have plagued states like Montana, Colorado, and Kansas.

f) Health Effects:

Deadly heat waves also cause a rise in heat-related deaths, which especially threatens young children, the sick, and the elderly. The local air quality is also affected by global warming, which is known to increase the incidence of respiratory disease and infection. In 2003, extreme heat waves across the world were responsible for more than 1,500 deaths in India and more than 20,000 deaths in Europe.

g) Increased Drought and Wildfires:

The frequency of extremely high temperatures has risen over the years, as seen in the increase of average temperatures in all of the lower 48 states of the U.S. since 2002. Warmer temperatures also increase the possibility of drought and wildfires, as a higher level of evaporation (especially during the summer and fall), worsen the conditions that bring about drought or increase the risk of wildfires. The hardest hit have been the states of Colorado, Arizona, and Oregon, who have seen their worst seasons in the past 50 years. States, such as Florida, Texas, and Louisiana, have also suffered their driest three-month periods in years.

h) Intense Rainstorms:

While some states suffer from intensely dry conditions, other places are hard hit with stronger rainstorms, such as Vermont, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts, which have felt more than double their normal monthly rainfall in past years.

i) Financial Demands:

Millions of dollars in damage has become a major problem for some states, such as Texas, Montana, and North Dakota, where severe floods fall upon the land during the summer, destroying property and taking lives.

j) Threatened Trees:

In Alaska, 20 years of warmer summers have encouraged the increased number of spruce bark beetles, which is responsible for destroying around 4 million acres of spruce trees. Some species of trees also fall victim to the spread of disease, as a change in climate promotes such events to take place.

k) Warmer Water:

With an increase in temperatures regarding various bodies of water across the world, hurricanes that develop throughout the year are often stronger and more dangerous because of the warmer waters that feed energy tropical storms. Additionally, the amount of category 4 and 5 storms has significantly increased over the past 35 years.

i) The Spread of Disease:

Some diseases, such as malaria, may have a chance to spread with the increase of mosquitoes that often thrive under the global warming conditions affecting the Earth.

How to Prevent Global Warming

To put a serious dent in the global warming problem, there are endless preventive measures to consider that involves individual, group, community, family, state, and country wide efforts. Some global warming prevention tips are as simple as changing a few habits within the household to more permanent measures, such as passing laws that directly decreases the issue. Below you will find 101 ways to become an active part of reversing the threatening trend of global warming:

1) Drive Less:

When you decrease the times you take the car out for a spin, you not only reduce the consumption of gas, but also reduce the amount of carbon dioxide that reaches the air.

2) Tree Planting:

Planting just one tree has the power to absorb one ton of carbon dioxide over its life span.

3) Bike to the Store:

Not only will you receive a healthy dose of exercise, but you will also spare the environment the pollution caused by using your car as a main source of transportation.

4) Join a Carpool:

When you group up with co-workers living in the neighborhood and take one car to work, you will contribute to creating fewer cars on the road, which equals less pollution in the air.

5) Consider Public Transportation:

Your car doesnâ€™t have to add to the air pollution woes in the world, leave it at home and rely on mass transit to take you to work, the mall, and other places in town. In the long run, you will also save money in gas when taking the bus, subway, or train.

6) Switch Light Bulbs:

When you replace a regular light bulb with a compact fluorescent, you will save 150 pounds of carbon dioxide each year. Once this type of light bulb burns out, it is also important to follow the proper procedures regarding disposal.

7) Recycle Household Waste:

Some households are able to save up to 2,400 pounds of carbon dioxide per year when they recycle just half of their waste.

8. Buy Recycled Products:

When you support recycled products, you not only save energy and resources, but also reduce the amount of waste that accumulates in local landfills.

9) Start a Compost Pile:

While recycling centers take care of paper recycling and other items, such as batteries, plastics, and metals, starting a compost pile helps reprocess organic materials (egg shells, newspaper, and food scraps) into a nutrient-rich soil for gardens and other landscaping needs.

10) Check Your Tires:

When tires are inflated to their proper capacity, this is a sign of decent gas mileage. Each gallon of gas an individual is able to save â€“ 20 pounds of carbon dioxide is withheld from affecting the atmosphere.

11) Follow Smart Driving Habits:

There are certain driving habits that lessen your role in adding to the global warming problem. Drivers should gradually accelerate when driving; use cruise control while on the highway; and obey the speed limit.

12) Donâ€™t Forget the Tune-Up:

Many people wait to get a car tune-up until it’s time to get an inspection sticker. It is suggested to receive routine tune-ups and also support local smog check programs.

13) Save Your Engine:

You should also consider turning off your car engine when you face an idle vehicle for long periods of time, which helps to reduce air pollution.

14) Replace Car Air Filter:

To reduce the amount of air pollution produced by your car, you should replace your air filter on a regular basis.

15) Reduce Your Hot Water Use:

Since it takes a lot of energy to heat water, it is suggested to reduce the amount of hot water you use in the household, which helps to cut down on carbon dioxide emissions. This added benefit also includes lower energy bills.

16) Wash Clothes in Cold Water:

Instead of using hot water to clean your clothes, switch to cold water and save 500 pounds of carbon dioxide each year.

17) Install a Low Flow Showerhead:

A reduction of 350 pounds of carbon dioxide is seen when installing a showerhead that controls the flow of water.

18) Insulate Your Hot Water Tank:

Conserving your hot water use is also accomplished when you properly insulate your hot water tank and make sure the temperature is kept at or below 120.

19) Thermostat Adjustments:

When you keep your thermostat at 68 degrees in the wintertime and 78 degrees in the summertime, you will reduce carbon dioxide emissions, as well as save money on your energy bill. Some households are able to save 2,000 pounds of carbon dioxide each year when keeping their thermostat set two degrees cooler in the winter and warmer during the summer months [7].

20) Avoid the Scenic Route:

Drivers avoid the production of one pound of carbon dioxide for each mile they avoid driving. This means knowing where you’re going to go before you get into the car and possessing the correct directions when visiting a new destination.

21) Turn Electronics Off When Not In Use:

A lot of energy is wasted when televisions, VCRs, computers, and other electronic devices are left on when not in use. Thousands of pounds of carbon dioxide are saved each year when simply turning off units when away.

22) Recycle Auto Equipment and Supplies:

To prevent global warming, you should make it a habit to properly dispose of unwanted used auto equipment and supplies. This includes antifreeze, brake fluid, car batteries, transmission fluid, and used motor oil. The containers of used auto supplies also require appropriate disposal, where there are recycling centers especially set aside in most cities for this purpose.

23) Recycle Batteries:

The pollution associated with landfills has the power to seep into surrounding soil, as well as contaminate local waters. It is important to properly dispose of or recycle used batteries, including NiCad batteries, rechargeable batteries (non-NiCad), and single-use batteries.

24) Recycle Electronics:

Instead of tossing away unwanted electronics, such as computer monitors, electronic devices, office machines, televisions, and other computer parts, take them to recycling centers so they may find new life instead of contributing to the mounting waste problem.

25) Recycle Household Hazardous Waste:

There are plenty of household products that pose a threat to the environment and add to the growing global warming dilemma. Some of the items one may consider recycling include fertilizers, pesticides, fire extinguishers, unwanted fuels, herbicides, household cleaners, insecticides, paints, photographic chemicals, solvents, and pool chemicals.

26) Reuse Cell Phones:

recycle old cell phonesWith the increasing advancements in cell phone technology, people are trading in their phones as newer models surface. Instead of tossing old phones in the garbage, you should turn in your unwanted selections to a recycling center. There are also programs that transform old cell phones into emergency phones for domestic abuse victims.

27) Replace Old Power Plants:

In many cities, older power plants that rely on the burning of coal are still used to produce the most production of electricity. It is the responsibility of residents to push for the establishment of cleaner plants.

28) Promote the Use of Renewable Energy Sources:

With the increase in use regarding renewable energy sources (including solar and wind energy), the damaging effects of other energy resources (like burning fuels) are lessened. Already, the states of California and New York have pledged to use more renewable sources of energy for their electricity needs.

29) Follow the NRDC 4-Point Plan:

The National Resources Defense Council has created a plan they believe will cut the global warming problem in half by the year 2050. In simple terms, the NRDC promotes a boost in energy efficiency; better car production; the embrace of biofuels and renewable energy; and returning carbon to the ground.

30) Promote “Green Building” Projects:

There is a way to design and construct new buildings in such a way that energy consumption is reduced by manipulating heating, cooling, lighting, and water use factors.

31) Encourage Walkable Communities:

Some developers have taken the stance to create more compact communities, where residents are encouraged to walk over taking a drive in their car. This principle can be applied to both city and town structures.

32) Promote Clean-Burning Biofuel Programs:

Biofuels utilize plants to create an energy source that burns clean. Hopefully, biofuels will be able to replace gasoline in the near future. Today, ethanol producers are responsible for 4 billion gallons of fuel per year. Newer methods have also surfaced, as farmers experiment with farm waste and other energy crops that could seriously threaten oil dependency.

33) Promote Solar Energy Jobs:

In the high-tech, high-paying world of solar energy, more than 20,000 Americans are able to make a difference in the global warming problem just by going to work each day.

34) Urge the United States to Lead:

Usually, other countries look towards the United States as a leader in change. If large countries, such as China and India, do not see the United States investing in the technology that cuts down the global warming problem, they are less likely to facilitate change. Urging the U.S. to set an example in the treatment of coal-burning power plants is a good way to create a healthy trend for the environment.

35) Replace Old Appliances:

If you possess a refrigerator or washing machine that is more than 10 years old, you are not only paying more in energy bills, but also wasting precious energy. Investing in a newer dishwasher, washer, dryer, or refrigerator model will save double the energy than if you use an older unit. Efficient appliances create less demand on power plants, which translates into less pollution.

36) Buy Energy Star Labeled Products:

When your appliance carries the Energy Star stamp of approval, you are doing your part in satisfying the energy efficiency minimums established by the federal government. Sometimes, tempting rebates are offered with this sort of product.

37) Purchase the Right Size:

Sometimes, individuals believe they need to bring home the biggest appliances in order to impress the neighbors or get the job done right. In fact, you could be causing the environment unnecessary distress. When purchasing a new product for your home, it is suggested to select an item suitable for your needs. This means avoiding the oversized air conditioner, extra large water heater, or gigantic refrigerator. All of these appliances waste energy and money when not needed.

38) Choose Natural Gas Appliances Over Electric:

When possible, some individuals choose appliances that run on natural gas over electric means because it is a more efficient selection to consider. There are many different stoves, water heaters, and dryers that use natural gas.

39) Use Precise Temperature Control:

The thermostat is not the only place where an individual may utilize precise temperature control. The refrigerator is another place, where you may adjust the coldness. On a scale from 1 to 10, some people automatically select the highest setting thinking it does a better job, but in the end you often waste energy and sometimes wind up freezing your milk and fresh vegetables.

40) Select Freezers on Top:

A refrigerator with freezer storage situated on top actually uses 10 to 15% less energy than a model showcasing a side-by-side unit.

41) Refrigerator Size, Selection, and Quantity:

While a larger refrigerator uses more energy than a smaller one, there are certain circumstances where one will come in quiet handy. Choose one larger refrigerator rather than purchasing two smaller models with the same total volume, or separate freezing units.

42) Clothes Washers Selection:

Front-loading washers usually use less water than top-loaders because they don’t have to completely submerge clothes, but instead, utilize a tumbling action that continuously lifts the water up and down onto clothes.

43) Washer Sizes:

When choosing a washer for your household, size does matter. A smaller washer is usually the right choice for smaller households, but a larger family (with the demands of many different loads) should select a larger unit to accommodate their needs.

44) Adjustable Water Levels:

When bringing a washer into the home, a model that allows one to adjust their water levels is a great way to use less water to complete smaller loads.

45) Choose Fast Speeds:

A washer may offer spin cycle selections that use slow, medium, and fast speeds. Choosing a faster spin speed results in the removal of more water from clothes, which in turn, reduces drying time and decreases the amount of energy the dryer must use.

46) Dryer Selection:

Gas dryers use less energy than a unit that relies on electricity.

47) Kids Can Do Their Part, Too:

Instead of driving your kids to school each morning, when they are in walking distance â€“ it is suggested to encourage them to walk. This practice will also get their metabolism kicking in the right direction with this early morning dose of exercise.

48) Skip Dishwasher Pre-Washes:

Reduce the amount of water you use in your household by scraping off excess food and conducting your own pre-rinse before using the dishwasher. This simple act saves energy when you no longer rely on a machine to complete this task.

49) New Dishwasher Purchases:

When you are in need of a new dishwasher, you should consider one that offers, “light washes” or “energy-saving” wash cycles.

50) Energy-Saving Dishwasher Dry Cycles:

When buying a new dishwasher, you should also seek out models that offer an energy-saving cycle, which dries dishes using air and circulation fans rather than heated drying that relies on heating coils.

51) New Room Air Conditioner Purchases:

When purchasing a new air conditioner, you should make sure the unit in question offers higher-efficiency compressors, fan motors and heat-transfer surfaces. A high-efficiency unit is responsible for reducing energy consumption by 20 to 50%.

52) Energy Efficiency Ratio:

When making an air conditioner purchase, you should familiarize yourself with the Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER), where the highest options are most desirable. By federal law, the minimum EER is 9.7, while some of the most efficient air conditioner models possess an EER of 11.7 or better.

53) Buy an Energy Star Central Air Conditioner:

energy star air conditionWhen replacing your old central air conditioning system (10 years or older) with an Energy Star model, you stand to reduce your energy consumption associated with cooling the house by 20%.

54) Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio:

When purchasing a central air conditioning unit, you should seek out the best seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER). Older units generally possess a SEER of 6 or 7, while today, the minimum SEER for a central air conditioner is 13.

55) Avoid Improper Installation:

It is important to get your larger appliances (such as central air conditioning systems) installed in the correct manner to avoid a loss in energy, which also translates to higher energy bills.

56) Call a Contractor:

To conserve energy, you may call a contractor to assess the locations in the house that use or lose the most energy. This may include ducts that are not sealed or insulated. The contractor will then make suggestions on how to make your home a more energy-efficient place to dwell. Sometimes, this practice is also called an “energy audit.”

57) Check the Age of Your Water Heater:

One of the largest energy wasters in the home is the water heater, which often accounts for about 15% of your energy bill. Old water heaters (usually more than 10 years old) are known to operate at less than 50% efficiency. This is a good reason to purchase a new one.

58) Select Natural Gas Water Heaters:

When you are in need of a new water heater, you should select a natural gas unit, which uses less energy to operate and costs less than an electric model.

59) Buy Energy Star Labeled Electronics:

The majority of home electronics bearing the Energy Star label use less power when not in use despite the amount of power they devour when operating. Some of the home equipment selections to consider include televisions, phones, computers, printers, and audio devices.

60) Choice of Printers:

The purchase of an ink jet printer conserves more energy than a laser model.

61) Television Screen Selection:

While CRT or plasma television screens are becoming increasingly popular; they are also responsible for the use of more power than a LCD television or monitor.

62) Power Supplies:

Choose small, lightweight power supplies over larger, bulkier transformer-based power supplies to save energy.

63) Take Advantage of Statewide Incentives:

Some states entice consumers with rewards for purchasing energy-efficient appliances. For instance, Connecticut and California provide rebate programs that will actually refund a portion of the purchase price of various energy-efficient appliances. In Maryland, the sales tax on some appliances bearing the Energy Star label is withheld.

64) Consider a Hybrid:

To cut down on air pollution and harmful emissions, hybrid cars provide fuel-efficient vehicles that offer a variety of high-tech options.

65) Save Gas With a Hybrid:

Depending on various driving styles and conditions, a satisfying gas mileage is associated with the purchase of a hybrid. Some models provide two times as much mileage than a standard mid-size automobile. For instance, Toyota offers the Prius (a mid-size sedan), which permits 60 miles per gallon of city travel and 51 miles per gallon when on the highway.

66) Protect the Environment By Embracing Hybrid Technology:

Promote the benefits of hybrid technology and support advancements in the industry by spreading the word on how these types of cars lessen the amount of polluting emissions that affects the environment, including greenhouse gases. Hybrids help to cut down air pollution, as well as prevent further effects of global warming. The cars also weaken the strong ties to foreign oil that Americans have been so dependent on for many years.

67) Take Advantage of a Hybrid Tax Break [8]:

Individuals who bring a hybrid car into their home will also receive federal tax credits until the year, 2010. While the amount of tax breaks you will enjoy varies according to your hybrid’s level of fuel efficiency, additional deductions may also influence your state return as well.

68) Give a Hybrid as a Gift:

When an upcoming graduation, sweet 16-birthday party, or wedding has you stumped for a gift idea, why not give a fuel-efficient car as a gift? Today, hybrids come in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors. Some of the many selections include the 4-door Honda Accord Hybrid; 2-door hatchback Honda Civic Hybrid; Ford Escape Hybrid SUV; and the Lexus RX 400h Hybrid SUV [9].

69) Follow the Kyoto Protocol:

In 2005, an international movement took place, which established a legally binding agreement to lessen the amount of greenhouse gases emissions on a worldwide basis. It is suggested to stay on top of the latest events and efforts regarding the Protocol.

70) Paint Choices:

When it comes time to repaint your house, it is recommended to choose latex paint over oil-based products, which releases less dangerous fumes during the drying process.

71) Weatherize Your Home:

Caulking and weather-stripping your doorways and windows helps save energy. Roof insulation also helps. In the summertime, adding outside shades also contributes to your energy-saving ways.

72) Fix a Leaky Faucet:

It’s hard to believe, but one drop of water per second wastes 2,700 gallons of water per year. This is why it is important to fix leaky faucets and taps as soon as the problem arises.

73) Reduce Water Pollution:

When choosing a product to wash yourself with, soaps do less damage to water than shower gels.

74) Make a Stand:

Conducting a little research on popular companies will educate you on which establishments create post-consumer paper and which businesses refuse to comply. When companies produce products using recycled paper, glass, and metal, they are contributing to a 70% to 90% savings of energy and reduction in pollution. At the grocery store, show your support by purchasing products from companies that side with post-consumer paper use.

75) Letter to the Editor:

A great way to spread the word about the dangers of global warming is to write a letter to the editor that is printed in your local newspaper.

76) Local Radio Exposure:

Take the opportunity to voice your opinions regarding global warming on a local radio talk show, especially when the issue comes up in conversation.

77) Join an Environmental Group:

On the local and national level, there are plenty of organizations to consider becoming a part of when you wish to take a more active stance against the global warming problem.

78) Send Emails:

Inform family and friends about the latest in global warming and encourage them to make energy-saving changes within their daily lives.

79) “An Inconvenient Truth”:

inconventent truthRent the movie and hold a screening at your home with drinks and snacks, which will hopefully open up the floor to hours of healthy debate and brainstorming.

80) Request Recycling Collection:

Some locations in the United States do not have recycling collection. Try writing a letter to your local council and request such a service. If you receive the cold shoulder or a negative response, submit the letter to your local newspaper for printing.

81) Attention Coffee Drinkers:

When you consume shade-grown coffee, as opposed to coffee grown in the sun, you are doing your part by saying “no” to pesticide use and the destruction of rainforests, where most sun-grown coffee is produced.

82) Stay at a “Green Hotel”:

When traveling, staying at a “green hotel” will help you do your part for the planet. A green hotel is an establishment that promotes energy- and water-saving programs, as well as reducing their amount of solid waste.

83) Diet Counts:

Believe it or not, the things you eat also contribute to the amount of greenhouse gases on a yearly basis. It is recommended to eat more vegetables and less meat products. Many are unaware that the average diet in the U.S. is responsible for an extra 1.5 tons of greenhouse gases per year when compared to a diet centered on plants [10]. When you reduce your meat and dairy intake by half, a big difference is made in regards to the planet.

84) Conserving at the Workplace:

At the office, make it a habit to not rely on disposable cups and keep a ceramic mug handy. When it comes to making copies, encourage co-workers to use both sides when applicable. To save gas and reduce harmful emissions, actively encourage and promote carpooling â€“ perhaps creating a sign-up sheet for interested parties.

85) Reuse Towels:

When at home or staying at a hotel, reusing towels helps conserve water, as well as energy.

86) Unplug the Charger:

Although your cell phone, IPOD, or other device is not connected to a charger plugged into the wall â€“ the charger is still a device that drains power â€“ so unplug it and save energy [11].

87) Better Understand Energy [12]:

Many people waste energy because they simply donâ€™t know any better. Once you learn about all of the unseen power absorbers you never knew existed, you can better save energy. You should also learn the difference between standby, as well as “phantom” energy.

88) Support Low-Emission Combustion Research:

Making a donation to the efforts of combustion research helps scientists come up with ways on how to create physical and chemical containment solutions that reduces emissions and increases efficiency.

89) Support Li-ion Batteries:

Supporting research regarding battery technology centered on creating low-cost rechargeable electrochemical batteries for automobiles and other items will ease the global warming problem in the future.

90) Create a Travel Energy Diary:

In order to assess how much energy you use on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis, it is suggested to begin a travel energy diary, which documents your habits. In the long run, you can pinpoint the type of things you need to adjust in order to contribute to combating the global warming problem.

91) Avoid Car Air Conditioner Use:

A significant draw on your gas comes from running the air conditioner, especially on full blast. It is suggested to infrequently use this car feature.

92) Buy Locally:

buy locallyTo conserve gas and reduce air-polluting trips, try to make your necessary purchases and obtain various services within your local domain. Choose shops and stores located close to your neighborhood.

93) Visit the Department of Energy Website:

On the Department of Energy website, you will find a web-based tool that helps one determine the fuel efficiency of a wide-range of new and used cars, as expressed in miles per gallon, as well as their effect on greenhouse gas accumulation.

94) Ceiling Fans:

Instead of running the air conditioner, you may rely on the use of a sturdy ceiling fan, which cuts energy costs in half.

95) Receive Email Alerts:

When you wish to stay on top of the hot-topics concerning global warming, you can subscribe to an online environmental magazine, which may send newsletters and email alerts regarding the latest news and developments. A cutting-edge online publication to consider is the Grist magazine, which sends daily or weekly highlighted news stories to email subscribers.

96) Lighten the Load:

Carrying unnecessary weight increases the amount of fuel needed to move the car. When not is use, it is suggested to remove car top carriers and roof racks [13].

97) Nuke It:

Meals prepared in the microwave are more energy efficient than using the stove. The difference is 2/3 less energy.

98) Alternate Clothes Drying:

During warm weather, line-drying clothes can save up to 5% energy.

99) Replace Air Conditioner Filters:

Since dirty filters affect the proper airflow of a system, it may cause a unit to run longer and use more energy. It is suggested to replace filters on a monthly basis, which can save 1-2 % of energy on a yearly basis.

100) Push-Start Lawnmowers:

Electric, push-start lawnmowers create less air pollution than the traditional gas-powered mower that uses gas and oil to operate.

101) Stay Informed:

How will you be able to prevent global warming when you donâ€™t stay informed regarding the latest changes in the world? Keeping up-to-date on the latest news means watching local and nationwide news programs (such as CNN); visiting appropriate websites; and reading the newspaper.


[1] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Global_warming
[2] http://www.kidzworld.com/article/4858-understanding-global-warming
[3] http://www.nrdc.org/globalWarming/f101.asp#1
[4] http://www.nrdc.org/globalWarming/fcons.asp
[5] http://www.nwf.org/polarbearsandglobalwarming/
[6] http://green.nationalgeographic.com/environment/global-warming/gw-overview.html
[7] http://www.earth911.org/master.asp?s=lib&a=globalwarming/iprevent.asp
[8] http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/tax_hybrid.shtml
[9] http://www.nrdc.org/air/transportation/ghybrid.asp
[10] http://www.charityguide.org/volunteer/fewhours/global-warming.htm
[11] http://www.standby.lbl.gov/index.html
[12] The Solution Is You: An Activist’s Guide by Laurie David (pg. 35)
[13] The Suicidal Planet by Mayer Hillman with Tina Fawcett and Sudhir Chella Rajan (pg. 247)

10 Responses to “101 Ways You Can Prevent Global Warming”

  1. Ryan
    November 27, 2007 at 9:25 pm #

    I can fill up a full tank for 25 dollars and drive to work all week with just one tank. I know the car is not the easiest on the eyes, but it really has a large interior. I am 6’3″ and can drive it comfortably. There are a lot of nice extras on the car as well. It is one of the easiest ways to keep this earth a bit greener.

    Anyway, great 101 global warming post. Keep up the good â€œpreventionâ€ work!

  2. lamb chop
    April 21, 2008 at 12:42 pm #

    throw cow poo at the people with the giant lawn mowers

  3. Anna
    June 2, 2008 at 8:54 pm #

    Unplugging something may not seem like a big deal, but it is. Next time you go by your cell phone charger feel it. It will be warm. These chargers and everything else that you leave plugged in is sucking energy from your outlet. Go around your house and unplug!!

  4. P.Sivamani
    October 12, 2008 at 6:46 am #

    Burning of tyres and related carbon monooxide relasing materials must be avoided. Burning is done in more places in India during a festival called Bogi.

  5. P.Sivamani
    October 12, 2008 at 6:48 am #

    Carbon-dioxide sucking machine should be found out which can suck and convert it into a harmless one

  6. Katelyn
    January 4, 2009 at 9:58 pm #

    I just wish people would understand that global warming IS a big deal.
    I want then to realize that everytime they place a piece of garbage on the ground, that effects all of us and even your kids,!
    We are all jepradizing the chance of your kids kids have kids because the world will be to unhealthy and soon it will eventually end.
    Just think about that…

  7. Carmen yanovsky
    April 23, 2009 at 12:37 pm #




    May 20, 2010 at 1:23 am #




  9. twinkle
    July 11, 2010 at 6:48 am #

    a simple way u can say is to stop littering !!!!

  10. Iris
    November 26, 2010 at 2:42 pm #

    Great tips — Here are two more: ONE — ban plastic bags, which use fossil fuels, pollute streams and oceans, harm marine life and birds, and are completely unnecessary. The average U.S. resident uses 450 platic bags / year — all we need to do is carry our reusable bags with us and say NO to plastic bags! Introduce a ban in your city or county, and be ready to stand up to DOW Chemical and other corporate giants which profit enormously from our mindless waste of resources. (Watch the DVD “Bag It!” available from http://www.bagmonster.com — a great, smart, peppy documentary.)

    TWO — ban natural gas drilling which uses high-volume slickwater hydrofracking with horizontal drilling, popularly known as “fracking,” which pollutes water, land, air, and climate while encouraging even more fossil fuel dependency. It is so environmentally destructive that, if it were properly regulated, it would be unaffordable; and natural gas is methane, a major contributor to global warming (methane emissions are not regulated at all, so methane pours into the atmosphere along with CO2 during this super-dirty type of deep drilling). Push hard for solar, wind, and geothermal instead. Push hard now; don’t wait!

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