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Earth Saving News > August 18, 2010
Our oceans are filled with…plastic soup.As if our oceans haven’t had enough to contend
These massive garbage zones are comprised of everything from plastic bags and bottles to clothing, fishing nets, and styrofoam packaging. The North Pacific Gyre, also known as the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, contains an estimated 150 million tons of this plastic sludge, covering a total area twice the size of Texas.
Sadly, it isn't practical to try to clean up the plastic already coating our oceans, but we can help stop the flow of plastic and clean up what washes ashore. Here’s what you can do to help prevent plastic pollution from taking over our oceans:
- Sign up to participate in Ocean Conservancy’s 25th International Coastal Cleanup to help clear the trash and debris from your local beaches and waterways. Mark your calendars – this year’s main event will be held on Saturday, September 25 with additional cleanups to follow throughout September and October.
- Commit to reducing your plastic consumption by taking Surfrider Foundation’s plastics pledge and encourage your friends and family to join the cause!
Is it getting hot(ter) in here?
NASA has released a new report
of surface temperatures from January through July of this year revealing that 2010 is on track to become the hottest year on record. July 2010 holds a three-way-tie for the hottest of that month, and March, April, May and June all topped the charts as the warmest on record -- worldwide. These numbers are consistent with recent warming trends: the last decade alone has included four of the five warmest years ever recorded, with 2005 still holding the top spot -- for now.
While many people don't see how a little tropical weather could ever be a bad thing, there are implications. The extreme heat is not the only warning sign of a changing climate. Rising temperatures mean more water vapor in the air, and more moisture that forms heavier precipitation. Extreme weather events already appear to be on the rise, with stronger storms, droughts, and heat waves dominating news headlines this summer. In fact, the implications are so serious that some are wondering why this extreme weather hasn't created more political reaction.
So what does all of this mean for our future climate and public health? Check out National Wildlife Federation’s guide to global warming and weather and this year’s Climate Science Update from the Union of Concerned Scientists. To learn more about the effects of climate change on our nation’s parks and help protect them from future damage, volunteer for this year’s National Public Lands Day on September 25, 2010, hosted by the National Environmental Education Foundation. Another way to take action: Get involved in 350.org's Global Day of Work this October 10. You can sign up to host a local event or search for an event to join. You'll be in good company -- 350.org says there are already 1,077 groups in 109 countries around the world scheduled to do something great that day! [More inspiration here: www.350.org/workparty-ideas]
And now some delicious news from your local farmers.
Have you started hitting your local farmers market on the weekend to stock up on fresh veggies for the week? Good work! Reports released in August by the Department of Agriculture show that the number of operating U.S. farmers markets has reached 6,132, up from 5,247 in 2009 – and the number of farmers markets has jumped by 16% in 2010. Why? Growing interest in farmers markets is credited to increased consumer concerns about food safety and a greater demand for locally produced goods. It seems more and more people are beginning to understand the impact their food sources have on their bodies and the environment!
American Farmland Trust has organized a Farmers Market Contest to raise national awareness about the importance of supporting fresh food from local farms. Market shoppers can cast their vote until August 31st – vote now and let the world know why you love your local market! Check out their current top 20 markets and a roundup of the 5 Favorite Farmers Markets in Your State.
And what better end-of-summer activity than a picnic with family and friends? Check out our Green Tip for making your picnic environmentally-friendly, then hit your local farmers market and stock up on the late summer bounty to supply your outdoor feast!
EARTH SAVING NEWS
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