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Global warming is an issue that is still hotly debated by scientists. Most do agree that there is general evidence supporting the idea that global warming is occurring. The thing they are unable to agree on is if the global warming is being caused by our actions, or if it is a natural part of the earth's evolution.

The Evidence

It is possible to measure some parts of the environment to identify current trends. For example, the levels of methane and carbon dioxide in the atmosphere are higher now than they have ever been in the past 650 years. The glaciers are melting at an increasing rate, and coral reefs are being destroyed due to increasing temperatures.

The Greenhouse Gases

Among the facts about global warming is the cause of the warming. Greenhouse gases cover the atmosphere and trap the sun's heat. Carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide are emissions that cause greenhouse gases. Burning fossil fuels is a fact about global warming that is the cause of most carbon dioxide emissions. We burn fossil fuels when we drive our cars and generate electricity in power plants. Reducing these emissions is the most important reason everyone needs to know the facts about global warming.

Public Education

It is important that people learn about the effects of global warming and hear both sides of the argument * it may be that global warming cannot be prevented, but if everyone learns about global warming and researches environmental issues for themselves, they will be able to make more educated choices, and understand other conservation issues at the same time. Global warming is not the only thing we need to be concerned about * many resources are being rapidly depleted, and energy conservation will benefit the environment in many ways.

Small Changes Do Help

We can all help reduced the pollutants released everyday by changing our transportation choices, changing our light bulbs, use renewable energy sources and conserving paper products.

Automobiles cause twenty percent of United States carbon dioxide emissions. The United States is the world's larges consumer of oil. We could reduce our dependence on oil by carpooling, using public transportation, building bike paths and just driving less.

Using renewable energy sources whenever possible will reduce the need for fossil fuel usage. It may not be possible to stick solar panels to the roof of your house, but, if you can switch to an energy provider that uses wind power, and take 'green' public transport if it is offered in your area, then you will be doing your bit for the environment.

Another change that could help in a big way is to consider environmental issues during election time * voting for a government that supports conservation and renewable engergy sources would be a big step forward.