Blog Action Day: Climate Change

I am getting a rather late start on this post for a variety of reasons. For one thing, I spent a good part of this afternoon doing something I very rarely do – watching the news. The story of the helium balloon and the six year old they thought was in it captured my attention. As of this writing, the boy has not been found and my thoughts and prayers are with him and his family. *

The other reason I am just starting this is that I simply do not know what to say that hasn’t already been said by so many others. I know there are many who still do not believe that climate change is taking place or that if it is, it’s not caused by human actions. That’s okay; I wasn’t so sure myself a few years ago. I think the evidence is pretty conclusive at this point but regardless, I would think we could all agree that human actions are causing pollution of a magnitude that is affecting nature and our own health. I also realize there is a segment of the population that believes the “Rapture” is coming soon so we don’t need to worry about the havoc we are wreaking on this planet…you know, the only one we have to live on? Anything I could say to this group is probably a waste of breath (or typing) so I’ll focus on the rational, albeit skeptical folks.

I grew up in Southern California. Most of my childhood was spent living in the high desert which at that time was notable for its clean air. However, other relatives lived in the Los Angeles area and when we’d drive over the mountain pass most of the time you’d be treated to a stunning view of a thick blanket of brown smog. I have vivid memories of how my lungs would ache after breathing the air for a few hours. This was back in the late 60s throughout the 70s. But something interesting happened. Catalytic converters and smog controls became mandatory on new cars. Various smog control legislation was enacted in the state and guess what? Despite the fact that there are now four times as many cars on the road, smog has decreased significantly. It’s still a problem but huge strides have been made. I remember the grumbling and complaining when pollution control legislation was passed but people adjusted in short order and lives are better as a result.

This amazing achievement has convinced me that it’s not a hopeless cause. It is indeed possible to change our environment for the better. I realize that people are busy and consumed with their own personal daily challenges. They look at those who are *living green* in a very public way and think, “I could never do all that”. But the thing is, even small changes can make a big difference if everyone did them. For instance:

In New York City, one less grocery bag per person would reduce waste by five million pounds and save $250,000 in disposal costs!

I’m not an expert on the subject of climate change, nor have I reached the level of *green living* I aspire to, although I’m trying. I do, however, read a lot of green blogs, most of which are participating in Blog Action Day. They know far more about the subject than I do so I have decided to share links to several. Go read what they’ve written. That’s what I’m going to do.

“Who Cares About the Freakin’ Polar Bears?” by The Conscious Shopper

“Blog Action Day: Global Climate Change” by Renaissance Garden

“Blog Action Day: Why Bother?” by Crunchy Domestic Goddess

“Climate Action Day is Coming. What Will You Do?” by Fake Plastic Fish

“Thoughts on Not Good Enough” by Chile Chews

“Wanted: Your Tips For Living an Eco-Friendly Life” by Consumption Rebellion

“Climate Change: Life’s Little Convenience Charge” by The Green Phone Booth

and last but not least, my daughter’s blog:

“Blog Action Day: Climate Change” by Retro Housewife Goes Green

After you’ve read these blog posts, pick just one thing YOU can do to live a greener lifestyle and leave me a comment telling me what you chose.

*Apparently the boy was found hiding in the attic. What a relief!