Top 10 things you can do to prevent Global Warming:

10.	Plant native, drought-resistant trees and shrubs around your home and outdoor air conditioning unit.
9.	Use an electric or push mower instead of a gasoline-powered mower to cut your lawn.
8.	Replace your current home appliances (refrigerator, washing machine, dish washer) with high-efficiency models.
7.	Buy food and other products with reusable or recyclable packaging instead of those in non-recyclable packaging.
6.	Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs.
5.	Install a solar heated system to provide your hot water.
4.	Recycle your home's waste newsprint, cardboard, glass and metal.
3.	Leave your car at home (walk, bike or take mass transit instead).
2.	Insulate your home, clean your air conditioning filters and install energy efficient showerheads.
	And the number one thing you can do to prevent Global Warming is...
1.	Purchase a fuel-efficient car (rated at 32 mpg or more) to replace your most frequently used automobile.

Global Warming: What it is and what you can do

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, "Global Warming" is an average increase in the temperature of the atmosphere near the Earth's surface which can contribute to changes in global climate patterns.

Global warming is caused by an increase in "greenhouse gases" in the atmosphere.

Greenhouse gases (water vapor, ozone, carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide and chlorofluorocarbons) occur naturally in the atmosphere, but amounts are increasing because of population growth and human activities like the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation.

According to NOAA and NASA data, the Earth's average surface temperature has increased by about 1.2 to 1.4ºF since 1900. The warmest global average temperatures on record have all occurred within the past 15 years, with the warmest two years being 1998 and 2005. Most of the warming in recent decades is likely the result of human activities. Other aspects of the climate are also changing such as rainfall patterns, snow and ice cover, and sea level.

Because of its low elevations and extensive coastline, Florida is particularly vulnerable to rising sea levels. 

You can help prevent further global warming!

	Buy energy efficient products
	Conserve energy at home and at work
	Plant trees
	Reduce, reuse and recycle
	Make wise transportation choices

For more information, visit the Environmental Protection Agency's global warming website.