1. How the weather acts over many years Natural causes such as volcanic eruptions, solar variation, etc... However, humans have increased the rate of climate change dramatically through an increase in greenhouse gases and changes in land use

2. But… how does this affect me? Extreme HeatExtreme Heat Harms Human HealthHarms Human Health Damages ForestsDamages Forests Impacts RecreationImpacts Recreation

3. Extreme Heat  More days reaching above 90° F  Average temperature in the Northeast has already risen 1.5° F since 1970  It is estimated the temperature will rise between 7°F - 12°F above historic and recorded levels in winter and between 6°F - 14°F in summer

4. Impacts on Human Health  Air quality is expected to decline as much as 4 times in Pennsylvania’s cities!  Ground-level ozone can damage lung tissue, and is especially harmful for those with asthma and other chronic lung diseases.  Vector-Borne Disease: Malaria, dengue fever, yellow fever, encephalitis, and lime disease are expected to increase

5. Impacts on Our Forests  Loss of habitat and species  The trees that grow in our forests won’t be able to grow in this type of climate  Increased risk of fires in the new warmer, drier climate

6. Impacts on Recreation  Fishing and hunting will be affected due to habitat loss and species extinctions  No more snow fights during the winter season  Need to travel farther for winter activities

7. Use Clean Energy!Use Clean Energy! Become aware of the issues affecting climate changeBecome aware of the issues affecting climate change Look to purchase items that save energyLook to purchase items that save energy Change the way you travelChange the way you travel Use programmable thermostatsUse programmable thermostats Use energy saving fluorescent light bulbsUse energy saving fluorescent light bulbs

8. Warrington Township Committed to the Pennsylvania Clean Energy Communities Campaign? It has committed to purchase 20% of its electricity from clean energy by 2010. Did you know…

9. Local Benefits: * Township Receives a free 1kW solar energy system (a $10,000 value). * Recognition as a leader in clean energy * Greater energy independence from fossil fuels * Lower electricity and natural gas bills in the future State Benefits: * Thousands of new jobs from renewable energy development * Reductions in global warming pollution * Billions of $$ in new capital investment * Millions of $$ in new local tax revenues Information provided by SmartPower and Union of Concerned Scientists SIGN UP FOR CLEAN ENERGY TODAY!!