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New Energy Economy is creating a network of leaders, spokespersons, and concerned citizens who are addressing one of the most pressing challenges of our generation—global warming. Photo: Steve Capra |
Because of human activities, the Earth's average temperature is predicted to rise up to 5°C in this century (Note 1). Pollution from cars, trucks, and power plants is creating a "carbon dioxide blanket" of heat-trapping gases around the earth. This blanket is getting thicker, and temperatures are rising (Note 2). We have already seen a one-half degree rise in global temperatures, and there is now scientific consensus that we must limit the rise in global temperature to less than 2°C to avoid disastrous impacts.
Above 2°C, it is likely that global food production and water resources will decline, weather will become more extreme, sea levels will rise and submerge coastal communities, and a quarter of all plant and animal species on earth could become extinct.
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In 1910, when Glacier National Park was created, there were 150 glaciers. Now there are fewer than 50, and all but a few will be gone by mid-century. |
If we continue on our present course of burning fossil fuels, the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change projects that we could reach 2°C by 2050 and 3°C by 2070.
To preserve our world for future generations we must limit the global temperature rise to less than 2°C and reduce global warming emissions by 75% below 2000 levels by 2050. New Energy Economy is working to develop these policies that will meet that goal, and we hope that you will join us.
Note 1: United Nations, Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
Note 2: Graph from the US Global Change Research Program
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