Clean Air
Clean
Energy Article
Painless steps we can all take to
reduce smog
and climate change
Article by Dr. R. Ehrlich
Global warming, climate change, Kyoto Protocol, record smog alerts in
Caledon, greenhouse gases, severe weather, droughts, melting polar ice caps…
These stories are in the news every day - big issues being discussed by
politicians and scientists around the world. Is there anything that we can do
about them here in Caledon?
Actually, yes.
Here’s a quick summary. The bad news: It’s predicted that Canada will be
affected by climate change more than most other countries. In Ontario, climatologists predict drier
summers with more extremely hot days, wetter winters, reduced air quality
(smog), more severe weather (ice storms, tornadoes) and droughts. As a result,
scientists predict water shortages, health problems (allergies, respiratory and
insect-borne diseases), reduced water quality, problems for farmers (drought,
pests, disease), animal and plant extinction, reduced hydroelectric power
capacity, lower water levels in the Great Lakes
and much more.
Here’s the good news: By taking action now we’ll reduce the impacts of climate
change on our economy and quality of life. There are simple, inexpensive steps
that we can all take to help. Most climate change is caused by the emission of
greenhouse gases. We produce greenhouse gases and create smog when we burn fuel
to heat our houses or drive cars, and whenever we use electricity. If we can
find easy ways to use less fuel and electricity in our day-to-day lives, we
will produce fewer greenhouse gases and do our part to fight climate change and
smog. And we’ll save money too!
Where to begin? In upcoming columns, I will describe painless, inexpensive tips
for reducing your personal smog and greenhouse gas emissions. Some of these
ideas are well known, but others may surprise you.
The Caledon Countryside Alliance’s
Ecological Footprint Project has introduced the Step Up to Kyoto Pledge,
several surprisingly easy actions that you can take to achieve your share of Canada’s
emissions reduction target. For more information, please contact the CCA at
905-584-6221 or Information
Request
Dr. Richard Ehrlich
Caledon Clean Air Clean Energy Program
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