The Greenhouse Effect and Climate Change (which includes Global Warming)

The Greenhouse Effect Good Bad

Global Warming Good Bad

Carbon Dioxide (CO 2 ) -Sources Burning fossil fuels (gasoline for cars, coal for electricity) Cutting down and burning forests. -Ways to reduce Plant more trees/plants Reduce the amount of fuel and electricity we use. Methane (CH 4 ) – Sources Cows Rotting Vegetation – Ways to reduce Eat less beef and dairy Slow population growth Water Vapor (H 2 0) – Sources Transpiration of plants Naturally Occurring – Ways to reduce Warmer air can hold more water vapor. Keep the atmosphere from warming. Nitrous Oxide (N 2 O) – Sources Soil, Manure and Sewer Management – Ways to reduce Eat less beef and dairy Slow population growth

What is happening/might happen? Average global temperature rise of ¾ °C. Glaciers and ice caps melting/rise in sea level. Changes in climates and severity of weather. Organisms will migrate or die out. Our “breadbasket” might move to Canada. Diseases and invasive species spread. A link to EPA’s Climate Change Site

Do you care? What can you do?

How can the following help reduce greenhouse gasses? Stop breathing (just kidding... I said just kidding) Riding your bicycle/scooter/skateboard/walk Turning off (and unplugging) your appliances Turning lights off/using ambient (outside) light Turning the heat down & wearing a sweatshirt Taking shorter showers Growing your own food Buying local food Eating all of your food (no food waste) Planting/protecting plants

How can the following help reduce greenhouse gasses? Reduce – Clothes – Water Usage Reuse – Bags – Binders/folders – Food containers – Backpacks

How can the following help reduce greenhouse gasses? Rethink – Cell phones/electronics – Clothes Recycle – Paper – Plastic TELL OTHER PEOPLE (preferably without being too judgmental)

How can the following help reduce greenhouse gasses? Join YMCA Earth Service Corps Black background inspired by Blackle.Blackle Polar Bear Commercial