GLOBAL WARMING AWARENESS:

Fog rises in valleys filled with farms and small towns between the majestic mountains that line our state on an early morning in Vermont. This is the pristine environment we cherish. Thousands of tourists flock to our spectacular region each season to share for just a short time the state we enjoy all year. Our vibrant communities cultivate strong agricultural business, supply maple products to the world, and build on tradition for future growth and healthy living. 14,000 years ago our planet was 10 F degrees cooler and Vermont was covered with a sheet of ice one mile thick. A similar shift in the other direction of the thermostat could have equally catastrophic consequences for Vermont.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency the climate of Vermont could be like that of Richmond, Virginia, or even Atlanta, Georgia by 2100. As carbon dioxide levels rise, they create a blanket effect that holds in more energy and warms the earth. Gases emitted by our cars, furnaces, and electric generators are warming our planet.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration the Northeast’s average annual temperature has increased by 1.8 F since 1899. Over the past 30 years temperatures have increased 1.4 F. Winter temperatures (December to February) show the greatest seasonal rate of warming (2.8 F). In the last 30 years (1970-2000) we have seen a striking increase of 4.4 F in winter temperatures.

The 1990’s were the warmest decade on record. Vermont now produces 23% more global warming pollution than we did in1990. The related smog will cause increased cases of asthma and reduced lung function. Warmer winter temperatures mean fewer days for skiing, skating, snowmobiling and ice fishing. These climactic changes have a huge impact on Vermont’s economy, environment and our quality of life.

WHAT VERMONT WILL PASS ON TO FUTURE

Clean air, clean water and a vibrant working landscape are essential to our strong economy and high quality of life across the Green Mountain state. But Vermont’s economy and natural environment are under serious threat from global warming. Signs of global warming show that we need to act now. Vermonters want policies that protect our environment and traditional way of life. Effective solutions – from wind power to cleaner cars – will fend off global warming. Vermonters are taking individual steps to use less oil, gas and electricity but we need our leaders to do more to protect the Vermont we love for the future.

• Clean, affordable and locally generated power?
• Clean, fuel-efficient cars that prevent air pollution?
• A thriving traditional economy supported by energy efficient technologies developed in Vermont?
• Lower energy bills at home, with efficient insulation, heating, lighting and appliances?
• A beautiful green, red, yellow and orange Vermont  with healthy air and clear water?

■ Skiing and Snowmobiling

Scientific data shows that winter in Vermont has already shortened by more than two weeks over the last 50 years. Warmer temperatures could erase most winter recreation in Vermont and the money it brings to our economy.

■ Tourism