World Environment Day June 5 2008

Thursday, June 05, 2008

JC Jones MA RN

The United Nations observes World Environment Day today. Everyday we realize the importance of the environment to our personal health and survival. The slogan for 2008 is Kick the Habit! Toward a Low Carbon Economy. Climate change is described as the defining issue of our era, and in the past month alone we have witnessed devastating cyclone in Myanmar, earthquake in China followed by torrential rains and aftershocks, the worst tornado season on record in North America.

The UN urges us to reduce our carbon footprint. Figure out ways to go low carbon or no carbon in your spending and living habits. Use public transportation and energy efficient appliances and electronics. Convert to compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) have evolved rapidly in the past decade. They now last between six and 15 years and reduce electricity use by a minimum of 75 per cent compared to a standard incandescent bulb. I rarely have to replace a light bulb since I made the switch. Network with people in your company and community to figure out more ways to be green.

The loss of biodiversity due to climate change is a tragic loss of natural assets for curing diseases. The more we do to protect the environment, the more we do to protect ourselves.

Labels: carbon footprint, climate change, environment

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