What can the average person do to prevent global warming?

Answer

The simplest thing to start with is fit energy saving lightbulbs and turn them off when not in use.

Turn off electrical equipment such as TVs stereos and computers rather than leaving them on standby.

In winter turn the heating down a degree or two and wear a sweater/undershirt, and in the summer turn the A/C up a degree or two. (Shopping malls take note)

These simple actions not only help save the planet but save on our electricity bills too.

We can also recycle, reuse, and reduce many things.

Answer

The question might be best approached by considering ways to reduce our use (either directly or indirectly) of fossil fuels. Lots of coal is used to generate electric power. Electrical energy conservation, as was pointed out, is a must.

Recycling, as mentioned is important. It keeps the planet clean(er) and saves energy to produce new product (in most cases).

The other thing we can probably do is look at our transportation situation. Vehicular contributions to the buildup of greenhouse gases are huge. If we, as individuals, can reduce our driving in some way, this will make a positive contribution to the equation. There is more to this if one thinks it through.

Remember that there are (a ton of) things we buy that are made or processed using electricity or moved using petroleum. Most of them, in fact. Anything we buy, be it food or clothing items, has what is called a "carbon footprint" associated with the manufacture, processing, packaging and transportation to market of the product. That could be electric power used in making or packing the item, or the petroleum used to bring it to the market. Whether it's a sweater or a head of cabbage, it takes energy to get that product from its point of origin to a point where you can pick it up.

First answer by Englishangel. Last edit by Quirkyquantummechanic. Contributor trust: 614 [recommend contributor]. Question popularity: 32 [recommend question]