Causecast

by ELIZAH LEIGH, Contributing Writer

As our planet continues to suffer from the adverse affects of global warming, the California Natural Resources Agency suggests that the west coast is in an especially precarious situation with increasingly higher temperatures, extended wildfires, steadily rising sea levels and prolonged droughts. In just the last century alone, Mother Nature has been acting out with a very tangible 7 inch increase in California’s sea levels thanks to glacial melt-off butting heads with toasty seas. Add to that the fact that September 2009 was among the hottest months – at 73.3 degrees Fahrenheit – in the National Climatic Data Center’s 115 year record keeping history.

In a preemptive measure, the California National Resources Agency has teamed up with Governor Schwarzenegger to unveil the interactive Google Earth prototype, CalAdapt, which enables inquiring minds to view the anticipated dangers brought on by global warming right from the comfort and convenience of their own computer screens. Users gain the benefit of accessing precipitation, temperature and fire projections as well as visual representations of the impending disaster that awaits if we continue along our current path, such as the flooding of the majority of Silicon Valley. Arming the public with this educational tool could very well make those residing in the areas most vulnerable to natural disasters relocate sooner than later. That could have the benefit of saving lives and avoiding potential property damage down the road.

Check out these before and after images of California landmarks. The “after” images project how the areas will look in 2100.

According to these projections, AT&T Park (home of the San Francisco Giants) will be submerged, along with San Francisco’s scenic Treasure Island. Silicon valley, home to California’s high-tech industries, is also projected to be submerged.

Interested in offsetting climate change in California or whatever part of the globe you reside? Here are a few simple efforts that really add up over time:

Be more accountable for your actions while getting a monetary pat on the back by registering your utility bill data with MyEex and Earth Aid.

Get involved with organizations that actively fight global warming, such as the Natural Resources Defense Council, Save Our Environment and Friends Of The Earth.

Reduce the amount of carbon dioxide you produce by weatherizing your home, adjusting your thermostat in the summer and winter by two degrees, switching to double-pane windows and utilizing renewable energy via solar, wind or other green sources.

Volunteer with a local tree planting charity such as John Denver’s Plant It 2020, The Arbor Day Foundation or Plant A Tree Today.

Continually educate yourself, ask questions and remember that you are a global citizen.