I'm voting for Gore!

I recently watched the movie "An Inconvenient Truth" , the documentary featuring Al Gore's traveling global warming slide show.  At the end of the film, they ask you to tell everyone you know to see the movie too.  So that's what I'm doing. 

Now's the time to see it if you haven't yet.  You've probably seen the recent headlines about the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) study on global warming.  Alarming, right?  But not nearly as alarming as when you learn the full story.  And you need to know it - it's our children's future we're talking about.

In my humble opinion, this is a tremendous film - it is SO eye-opening and deeply thought provoking!  I'm the type of person who 'gets it' a lot better when I SEE it - so much more than when I read it.  I've read my share of articles about global warming but nothing compares to this fast-paced, gripping and sometimes even funny film. 

And you probably read that Al Gore was nominated for a Nobel Peace prize.  I wish I could cast a vote for him - 'cause if I could, I sure would!  Before I saw the movie, I had no idea that Gore was that passionate and dedicated to the cause.   It is something to admire, that's for darn sure.   

Now I'm busy looking for ways to reduce my carbon footprint on the earth.  You can calculate your impact on global warming by taking this quick survey by Native Energy.  It's an interesting way to see how you rate compared to the average American, but the key is to take ACTION whenever and wherever you can to reduce YOUR impact.  Here are a few things you can do that are pretty darn easy:   

• use a programmable thermostat (and/or turn down your heat when you leave the house)
• switch to CFL's instead of fluorescent lights
• use the cold/cold cycle for laundry
• make it a point to drive less and walk or bike more
• buy products with less packaging (i.e. large jars of applesauce instead of little cups)
• buy local to avoid the energy used in transportation
• have an energy audit done on your house (many are free - check w/your local energy supplier!)
• switch to a low flow shower head
• recycle as much as you can
• reuse (donate your old stuff and buy used clothing and household goods)
• use powerstrips to turn off multiple items at once and avoid phantom power use

But first, go out and rent "An Inconvenient Truth".  It's a winner.