Saving the planet is just not for adults – it’s also for kids. But how do you explain global climate change in an uncomplicated and fun way? The Down-to-Earth Guide to Global Warming by Laurie David (she also produced the award winning documentary An Inconvenient Truth) and Cambria Gordon.
The book is broken down into several sections, the first of which explains the concept of global warming. In case you’ve been living under a rock for the past year or two when environmental issues have taken center planet, here is the theory of global warming: “Heat from the sun gets trapped under the blanket and the Earth begins to feel too hot. But the Earth can’t just kick off that cover to cool down. This is global warming.”
Now that you understand global warming, the authors explain how it affects weather, how it affects animals and plant life, and finally, what kids (and adults) can do to stop global warming. Throughout, the authors intersperse fun facts. For example:
Fact: If we used just one-eighth of what the world produces in biomass each year, it would provide all the energy needs of every single person on the planet.
Fact: One less barrel of imported oil is needed for every 28.3 gallons of ethanol used.
Fact: Americans throw away 2.5 million single water bottles away each hour.
There are many great ways for all of us to help the planet that are mentioned in this book:
-
Don’t use paper or plastic, use canvas bags, reusable lunch bags and reusable water bottles.
- Change your lightbulbs to compact fluorescent light bulbs at home and at school.
- Use biofuels such as ethanol and consider hybrids when buying a new car.
- Use recycled paper.
In addition, they mention ways that kids can get involved at school as well as at home. Another cool call to action is encouraging people to join the virtual global warming march by joining www.stopglobalwarming.org. You can also learn about even more ways than mentioned in their book about how to make a difference. If you’re ready to make a commitment for the planet and are ready to begin teaching your children how to do the same, then this is a must read book, for kids and adults alike.
|
