Lesson 16.4 Responding to Climate Change Fossil fuel combustion generates 70% of the electricity used in the United States.
Use and Production of Electricity Carbon footprint: The amount of carbon dioxide for which an individual or group is responsible Most electricity is generated by burning fossil fuels. Reducing electricity use reduces carbon footprints. Ways to reduce electricity use: Use energy-efficient technologies, which lessen the electricity needed to do a job. Reduce the use of electrical devices and appliances.
Alternate Sources of Electricity Nuclear power Solar power Wind power Hydroelectric power Geothermal power Wind turbines
Advances in Vehicle Technology Transportation is the second largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the United States, second only to electricity. Alternatives to fuel-only cars include: Gasoline-electric hybrid vehicles Vehicles that use alternative fuels such as gasahol Vehicles that use hydrogen fuel cells. Energy Loss in a Car
Reducing Dependence on Cars Biking, walking, and using public transportation are all ways to reduce fossil fuel use. Many communities lack good public transportation. Did You Know? The average American family makes 10 trips by car each day.
Strategies for Reducing Greenhouse Gases Agriculture / forestry: Reduce soil erosion and replace cut trees, to curb CO2 emissions Cap-and-Trade: System of emission allowances that can be sold or traded, gives companies incentive to reduce emissions Carbon tax: A tax per unit on emissions
Carbon offsets: Instead of directly reducing emissions, companies can make a voluntary payment to a group that reduces or curbs greenhouse gases. Carbon sequestration: Technology is used to trap and store carbon dioxide emissions.
Cooperation Among Nations The Kyoto Protocol is a binding international effort to reduce greenhouse gases to below 1990 levels. The United States did not sign the Kyoto Protocol. Many nations are planning to develop a new binding agreement to address global climate change some time in the future.