Get Involved with Environmental Issues As Carbon Emissions Increasing

As per the energy statistics report put out by the Energy Information Administration (EIA) unveiled that carbon dioxide pollution had increased by 1.4 percent in 2007. 2006 had seen a welcome decrease in pollution, but most of that decrease was attributed to decreased use of heat and air-conditioning that year because of rather favorable weather conditions in North America.

For 2007 we were not so lucky on the weather front and both the cold winter and warm summer accelerated the need to burn more fuel for U.S. citizens to keep comfortable. This news comes as no surprise, as since the year 1990, the average increase of greenhouse gas emissions has risen a little less than 1 percent each year.

Getting down to some specifics, in 2007 the U.S. emitted around 384 million metric tons of nitrous oxide (5.3 percent of total emissions), which is equal to a 2.2 percent increase overall. Emissions of the three industrial greenhouse gases, hydrofluorocarbons (HFC), perfluorocarbons (PFC), and sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) increased by 3.3 percent, which is equal to about 177 million metric tons (2.4 percent total emissions).

Agricultural emissions from farming and the "exhaust pipes" of various farm animals was also on the rise for 2007 with 700 million metric tons of methane being blasted into the air (9.6 percent of total emissions). This equals to about a 1.9 percent increase from the year before. While these numbers depict an emissions increase, the overall outlook for the U.S. for the next 25 years shows at least some promise.

Future U.S. energy-related carbon dioxide is predicted to increase at an average rate of 0.5 percent per year, which is half of the 1.0 percent it has been for the past 20 years. This half percent decrease should be enough to drop the current 21 percent of U.S. share in carbon dioxide emissions down to about 16 percent, which is a respectable 5 percent improvement overall.

It is China and India whose current emissions projection is the most alarming today. In the next 25 years, China's emissions are projected to account for nearly 47 percent of the projected increase between the years 2005 and 2030. India will account for the second largest share at 8 percent.

Also on the alarm in the near future is the worldwide distribution of industrial type greenhouse gases, which includes the above mentioned HFCs, PFCs and SF6. These three pollutants seem to be especially on a record rise and could exceed a 150 percent increase by the year 2010 the report suggests.

What can we do about this relatively bad, yet slightly promising news?Well, by controlling your patronage towards the various industrial manufacturers who are working to reduce their greenhouse gases, we can further support the businesses who are in turn supporting the environment. Choosing alternative fueled vehicles in the future is another positive step we could all make.

But in particular, this report warns us that we need to get involved with environmental issues on a more global level rather than just national. For too long we have seen the world as us and them, but in reality when it comes to pollution we are all in this together!

As far as the gaseous farm animal problem goes, it is obvious that better diets are in order, but some farmers are thankfully already working on that.

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Tips to Make Your Green Kitchen A Success

The green movement in the world has not left the building hardware industry aloof from its effect.


Everywhere you will go, today people are very much aware of their role when it comes to preserving the environment. Although there are a very few lot of people who are deeply concern about the eco issues, but the rest do it either due to allergy or are prone to chemical reactions. None the less, a green modification is anything but inevitable. So whenever you plan to go for green remodelling, then the best place to begin from is the kitchen. Everybody agrees on the fact that a kitchen is the most important area of the house and also the only place in the house which is frequently modified.

Today there are vary economical and variety of ways with with you can revolutionize your kitchen green. Without sacrificing style and luxury, the kitchen designs of today are eco friendly and not at all expensive. The green hardware installed in the kitchens are not only environmentally safe but a few special devices can also lower your electricity and water consumption costs. While refurnishing your house do not forget the lightening, bad ventilation and energy consumption that lead to various environmental problems. One does not realise but the use of poor appliances can use up too much energy. Over consumption of water, chemical sensitivities from products containing formaldehyde, and over-use of electricity due to the poor use of natural lighting and ventilation problems are just a few of the drains on our natural resources.


Besides the health hazards money too is a big concern before going in for a green building hardware renovation. However, one can save money by investing in buying smaller appliances, buying less stuff, and buying salvaged materials. Operating maintenance costs are decreased by using energy efficient refrigerators, freezers, dishwashers and microwaves. While planning the kitchen ensure that you have made enough provisions for natural daylight and proper ventilation.

Do not forget to create windows that allow a lot of skylight and fresh air. This will help in the reduction of electricity used in lightening. Another important tip is to create a place for recyclable storage, and using small efficient dishwashers, ovens, and freezers. While designing the floors and cabinets it is advisable to use non toxic materials as they are long lasting and are made of recycled sustainable products result in a healthier and more affordable product. Using concrete will help you abstain from harmful fumes. Today this product is in vogue and comes in different pattern and color options. Counter tops can be green as well if they are made from recycled glass or cast concrete.


Energy efficient appliances should to be the norm. When you start shopping try to locate the Energy Star stickers on most new products. Energy efficient lighting should be incorporated to cut down on your utility bills. Switching to CFL light bulbs is something that everyone can do to save energy and cut down on carbon dioxide emissions. Thankfully the quality has gone up and the prices have gone down in the past few years.

Do not get overwhelmed by the varieties of choices. Make reasonable selections and just keep in mind that you are trying to create a healthier environment for yourself as well as saving money in the long haul.

=> Green Remodel Kitchen



=> Go Green In Style Slideshow