Most climate experts acknowledge that even the aggressive action against greenhhouse gas emissions would take decades to change the course of global warming already under way. So the forecast is for growing extremes in weather, stronger hurricanes, warmer average temperatures in most regions, a slowly rising sea level, less water in dry regions, and more water in many wet regions. Some South Pacific islands are already preparing for the changes by investing in desalination plants to offset water shortages.
Whether it's moving out of a hurricane zone or changing what you plant in the garden, how do you foresee global warming forcing you to adapt your life? Let us know what you think and read what others are saying.
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"We are planning to build a passive solar house which will require very little heating or cooling, and are staying closer to home on vacations."
Jerry McIntire, Portland, Ore., USA
"I live in Alaska. What I see is a shorter ski season. In reality it is devastating. The permafrost is melting and people's homes are literally falling into the sea."
Karen Aleksa, Anchorage, Alaska, USA
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"I ride my bike for errands as much as possible. If I need just a few things at the store, I put on a backpack, ride my bicycle and make the trip. Saves gas, a grocery bag and I burn some calories."
Scott Wilson, Santa Barbara, Calif., USA
"... when my husband and I purchased a home, we chose one close to public transit, work, and family."
Robin McMillion, Austin, Tex., USA
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April 5, 2007
Climate change is already being blamed for altered rainfall patterns and shrinking glaciers that provide water for drinking and agriculture. Part 1 of an occasional series.
[ Read more ]
April 4, 2007
Climate change will require human adaptation. Water harvesting can mitigate predicted water scarcity.
[ Read more ]
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LAST WEEK'S DISCUSSION
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From US cities and states to Congress to capitals around the world, lawmakers are grappling with what to do to combat global warming. Environmental activist and former Vice President Al Gore testified recently on Capitol Hill and urged the US government to take immediate action against what he called a "true planetary emergency."
What should governments do to combat global warming caused by man-made greenhouse gas emissions? Let us know what you think.
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"Create a culture of walking to work and shopping locally. Choice for people is imperative, whether a car or bike, a small bungalow or a condo with nearby amenities."
Andrew Wright, Burkburnett, Tex., USA
"If the federal government were interested in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the president should authorize a maximum freedom speed – 55 mph."
Alex Clark, Belchertown, Mass., USA
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"When a crisis hits our world, our government should respond, rather than feign ignorance while continuing to provide opportunities for record-breaking profit in the non-renewable energy sector."
John Clements, Newport, R.I., USA
"All the hoopla we hear today about global warming is another name for a rose. We have long known about these problems. Maybe we will now begin to act. "
Luci Chambers, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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April 3, 2007
In a major victory for environmentalists, the US Supreme Court on Monday rejected the Bush administration's view that the EPA has discretion to decide when and how to best respond to international environmental threats. The vote was 5 to 4. [ Read more ]
April 5, 2007
March 29, 2007
Faced with the specter of a warming planet and frustrated by the lack of progress on this time-sensitive issue, some scientists have begun researching backup plans. They seek a way to give humanity direct control over Earth's thermostat. [ Read more ]
PREVIOUS DISCUSSIONS
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Some call it a carbon-free alternative to fossil fuels, but others point to significant environmental costs.
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A long-awaited UN-sponsored report hints at the need for a worldwide effort to control the environment.
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