How Global Warming Affects You
Colorado is widely known for its snow; but due to global warming, our recent snow seasons have been few and far between. We have a sprinkle here and there, which is very unusual weather. Colorado heavily relies on the snow — not only for skiing/snowboarding season, although it is the #2 destination in the United States for winter sports activities. More importantly, the state relies on the snow for 70% of its water consumption (www.colorado.edu).
Warmer spring temperatures (and even winter spring temperatures) bring early snow melt in the Rocky Mountains, which can lead to flooding and erosion damage. Today, snow is melting 15–30 days earlier then it has in two decades. Summer is starting to last a little longer each year as well, which is not a great sign for us.
In order to start the backwards motion of global warming, we need to start taking baby steps. Personally, I’m starting to miss the snow season! It feels like I am in California with how the weather has been lately in Colorado; but thankfully, there have still been cold nights.
Here are some simple ways we can bring back the snow on normal seasons and create a healthier atmosphere together:
1. Lower admissions through walking, riding, or biking to work if you live close enough. If you can, invest in an electric vehicle.
2. Use less plastic products and more reusable sustainable products — things that will not end up in landfills.
3. Conserve more water until the drought is over.
4. Plant trees like mangroves, which make 2x more CO2 than your average tree.
5. Learn more about the real threat of global warming. Let’s take care of our future!
