globalbriefs
News and resources to inspire concerned citizens to work together in building a healthier, stronger society that works for all.
Big Improvement
Small Changes Add Up to Large Cut in Carbon Emissions
A new study from Michigan State University demonstrates how altering everyday decisions can collectively re- duce direct U.S. household carbon di- oxide emissions by 20 percent annually in 10 years, “with little or no reduction in household well-being.” That’s equal to 7.4 percent of U.S. household emis- sions, and more than the total national emissions of France. Researchers note that most policy attention has been placed on long- term options such as clean energy technologies and cap-and-trade programs, but changing individual habits is reasonably achievable in the near-term. Adopting fuel-efficient vehicles and smart home weatherizing top the list of doable changes, followed by use of energy-efficient appliances and heating/cooling equipment, as well as fuel-smart driving behavior, low-rolling resistance tires and carpooling
(http://BehavioralWedge.msu.edu/).
Entrepreneur Robin Chase, who founded Zipcar (Zipcar.com), the biggest
urban car-sharing program in the world, is now also catalyzing a broader com- munications network for carpooling, called ride sharing, via local social networks of friends, coworkers, fellow church-goers and school chums. She notes that car sharing, in which users reserve and pay for the time they use a common-access vehicle, has been proven to reduce road time, as well as personal gas, insurance and maintenance costs.
Create or join a ride-sharing group at http://GoLoco.org.
Eco-Moms
Online Communities Support Green Parenting
Mothers who understand the benefits of green living to the health and welfare of their offspring now and in the future can enjoy easy access to helpful practical information. NatureMoms.com, now in its fourth year, offers its own article archives; GreenMoms.com, which celebrates its first anniver- sary this Mother’s Day, links to targeted articles on various websites of interest. Both online communities share wide-ranging
ideas and resources to make it easier to live as a green family and both enable online members to join in recommending products and services and providing their own insights and tips. In addition, GreenMoms.com invites members to form their own local support groups.
April 2010
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