For years I've been listening while sitting on the back burner, not really seeing the importance of Global Warming and my contribution.  I personally decided earlier this year to "Go Green".  Recently, I was happy to see Al Gore awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts to communicate this message and help people be aware and take action.  He has committed 100% of the proceeds of the award to the Alliance for Climate Protection, a bipartisan non-profit organization that is devoted to changing public opinion in the U.S. and around the world about the urgency of solving the climate crisis.

I urge you to visit this website to Explore Climate Solutions, read about Climate Heroes, take the 7 Point Pledge, Watch Videos, and Take Action.  Listed below are simple steps you can take to reduce your carbon footprint and help solve the climate change crisis.

At Home

• Turn off lights and appliances when they aren't being used.
• Replace your lightbulbs with energy efficient ones (like compact fluorescents).
• Sign up for green power.
• Buy energy efficient appliances, especially your refrigerator.
• Make sure your house is well-insulated.
• Ensure your computer's power settings are enabled.
• Sign the Pledge: Join the global movement and take action to solve the climate crisis
• Choose cold water when using your washing machine
• Be aware of product packaging.
• Calculate your carbon footprint

At Work

• Telecommute!
• Ensure your computer's energy savings are enabled
• Turn off lights and appliances when they aren't being used.
• Replace your lightbulbs with energy efficient ones (like compact fluorescents).

At The Store

• Use a green credit card
• Purchase green products and check out the relevant labels

Transportation

• Mass transit for lower climate impact
• Riding a bike for both your health and the climate's
• Plan your flights
• Save money, help the earth: Carpooling 101
• Choices abound for climate-friendly cars
• Inflate, maintain, and unload for maximum gas mileage

In Your Community

• Sign the Pledge: Join the global movement and take action to solve the climate crisis
• Taking Action on the Pledge
• Getting your utility to offer green power products

Influencing Leaders

• Mobilize our leaders for better public transit
• Speak up to urge our leaders to act now.
• Here's help to talk the talk and present the facts.
• Write a letter. Share your voice. Make a difference.

Click here to see the full-listing of actions available.

I've noticed more and more support lately including the MLS partnering with Built Green Homes, NBC programs, and even clothing stores such as REI.  You can learn more by watching Al Gore's movie called An Inconvenient Truth or reading here.