As drastic as it may sound, global warming is endangering the future of our world. The warning signs come to us day in and day out. Though we should not rush into a panic yet, we must begin to understand why global warming is happening, its consequences and what can be done to alleviate the problem.

"The second of February, 2007, in Paris will perhaps one day be remembered as the day where the question mark was removed behind the debate on whether climate change has anything to do with human activity on this planet," said Achim Steiner, executive director of the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), where 200 scientists gathered and formulated their bleak findings.

Greenhouse-gas emissions are produced when fossil fuels (carbon, oil and natural gas) are extracted, produced, transformed, transported and consumed. Moreover, glaciers are melting, which displaces more water, which in turn will begin to erode islands and beaches, and ultimately lead to their disappearance. One must consider that more than 100 million people live within 3 feet above sea level.

Global warming has passed the point of no return, yet we guilty humans must now do our best to slow it down. Volumes could be written about the efforts being made by governments and organizations to lead the way, but what can we as individuals do to contribute?

Dr. Gustavo R. Diaz and his family, who live in Tallahassee, Fla., began their own crusade against global warming, and perhaps we can learn from their efforts and apply them in our own lives. The doctor read a phrase from a UNESCO report that made him take action: "A willingness to change one's lifestyle or pattern of consumption is essential but insufficient in itself to bring about societal change. Similarly, one's action as a citizen, no matter how responsible and farsighted, is inadequate if one's individual behavior and lifestyle are wasteful or destructive."

Declining rainfall levels also can be attributed to global warming. This is why Dr. Diaz took on a series of recommendations, such as reducing the watering of plants, using a dishwasher and shutting off the faucet when brushing his teeth. He contacted his local electric company and discovered that his and his family's efforts had resulted in lowering their electric consumption, and as a result, his monthly bills have been reduced. On birthdays, the Diazes plant a tree; they now drive a hybrid vehicle; and they recycle their trash.

Experts add to the list of ways individuals can do their part. A quick shower uses less hot water and energy than a soak in a tub. Leaky toilets can waste up to 200,000 liters of water in just one year. Raising the thermostat on the central air conditioning also helps. Lower wattage on light bulbs saves energy, as does turning off the lights when leaving a room. In the kitchen, try a pressure cooker, and use organic foods.

Unfortunately, living in the fast lane makes us forget just how we can help slow down the damage being done to our planet. Many still believe that all of this is just a myth. Far from that, it is real and serious. Miles above the Earth, satellites measure the slow destruction of our planet. Each of us must make an effort to help save and preserve our planet. Our children and their children will thank us for it.

Maria Elena Salinas can be reached at www.mariaesalinas.com.

(Aug. 2, 2008)