Make a difference

International co-operation is the keyword for success on a big scale. In the graph below, you'll see that green energy sources only accounted for 15% of the sources used to generate electricity in 2006. The main reason for this is that green energy is more expensive than traditional energy, as you probably learned in the sections about the different green energy sources.

 

 

Luckily, many world leaders have realized the dangers of pollution and traditional energy sources. The Kyoto Protocol, a treaty signed and ratified by most of the world's countries, is an attempt at reducing the level of pollution in the atmosphere. Unfortunately, some countries and big companies still fail to realize that the environment is more important than financial growth and money.

 

You can make a difference by putting pressure on these countries and companies. One way to do so is to take part in the EARTH HOUR initiative, where people all over the world switch off their lights for one hour. Look out for details on the next EARTH HOUR on the official website (www.earthhour.org).

 

There are many changes you can make to your lifestyle to ensure a better future for all.

 

Reduce your Carbon Dioxide footprint
Your Carbon Dioxide footprint is an estimate of the amount of Carbon Dioxide you are responsible for emitting into the atmosphere. You can reduce your footprint by:

1. Traveling by car as little as possible. If it's close enough to walk, use those legs! That way, you don't only cut away the gasses your car would have emitted, you also get some exercise in the process!
2. Combining trips. Find a few friends living close to you and start driving together. Your parents/guardians can make turns taking you to school and picking you up afterwards.
3. Using public transport. If your city has a reliable public transport system, rather make use of that.

 

Don't waste electricity
The more electricity you use, the more electricity has to be generated. If your region/country isn't using green energy sources to generate electricity, a higher demand means more pollution. You don't have to live in darkness your whole life - just be a smart user by:

1. Switching off lights and electronic devices when you don't need them. What's the point in leaving your room's light switched on when you're eating in the kitchen? Get into the routine of switching off lights when leaving rooms.
2. Using power-saving light bulbs. If it's available in your area, buy power-saving light bulbs. They're usually cheaper than conventional bulbs and have a much longer life span.
3. Reducing the demand on your geyser. The hot water that runs from your taps are heated by the geyser, which also uses a lot of electricity. Shower instead of taking a bath, and keep it short!

 

Raise awareness in your community
It's already a great step forward to change your own lifestyle, but remember: the more people who change their lifestyles, the bigger the impact will be. It's in your hands to get your community involved. Make a difference by:

1. Telling your friends how they can contribute to reducing pollution. Give them information, or tell them about this website!
2. Organizing a 'plant-a-tree' day at your school. Ask your teacher to help you get permission to plant trees on the school property. Planting trees help reduce the high level of Carbon Dioxide in the air, through a process called transpiration (the natural process where Carbon Dioxide is converted to Oxygen).
3. Celebrating World Environment Day on 5 March. Speak to the local authority to help organize an awareness day.