The most important action we can take to slow global warming is to reduce emissions of heat-trapping gases. Governments, individuals, and businesses can all help.
Governments can adopt a range of options for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, including
- increasing energy efficiency standards
- encouraging the use of renewable energy sources (such as wind and solar power)
- eliminating subsidies that encourage the use of coal and oil by making them artificially cheap
- protecting and restoring forests, which serve as important storehouses of carbon
Individuals can reduce the need for fossil fuels and often save money by
- driving less and driving more fuel-efficient and less-polluting cars
- using energy-efficient appliances
- insulating homes
- using less electricity in general
Businesses can increase efficiency and save substantial sums by doing the same things on a larger scale. And utilities can avoid building expensive new power plants by encouraging and helping customers to adopt efficiency measures.
