We hear, read and see a lot today about climate change, global warming and its potential effect on us.  Scientists around the world and here in the United States are expressing serious concern about it.  Recently the world's largest general scientific society joined the concern over global climate change. It is the first consensus statement of the board of the American Association for the Advancement of Science on climate change. "The evidence is clear: global climate change caused by human activities is occurring now and is a growing threat to society," the AAAS said at its annual meeting.

It seems that this phenomenon is something global and there is little we can do about it.  It appears to be overwhelming and impossible to address.  But this isn't our problem; it is caused by big business and industry.  Business and industry certainly are part of the cause, but they are not alone.  We all use the products and services provided by industry, e.g. electricity, automobiles and many other products that enhance our lives.  But let us focus on what we can control.

If according to the scientists human activity is causing this to happen, then it is human activity that must reverse the trend.  The challenge seems beyond the reach of us.  Is there anything I can really do?  If so what is it I can do?  Will it cost me a lot?  Will I have to give up some things?  These are but a few of the questions we should ask ourselves.  Surprisingly there are things each us can to do to help and while they may seem small, as we expand our efforts they can and will make a difference.

Let's look at a few of the opportunities that you can take advantage available to you.  The number one thing you can do is be aware of your activities and the things you do that can affect climate change.  Let's look at a few of our daily activities:

·     Do I just jump in the car for a short trip when I could walk or ride a bike?

·        Do I turn off the lights when I leave a room?

These are just a few things each of us can do to help reverse the trend and there are probably many more you can identify.  But we can't do it alone.  We need to learn more about the issue and what we can do.  We need to engage our friends and associates in similar efforts and we need to be aware of what is happening in our communities and participate in those activities. 

Right here in Arlington County efforts have begun to address this and not just what the government can do, but what we as individuals can do to mitigate the impact of climate change. Arlington County has began a program know as AIRE Arlington Initiative to Reduce Emissions.  Check out their web site and learn more and see how you can help andparticipate.  http://www.arlingtonva.us/portals/topics/Climate.aspx.  We are all in this together and together we can make a difference.