Want to Understand Your Carbon Footprint?

by Tracey Finch

Then read the Down-to-Earth Guide to Global Warming by Laurie David and Cambria Gordon (Orchard Books/Scholastic $15.99 and worth every penny).  Oh yeah, and don't forget that this is supposed to be a children's book. But the book should be required reading for all kids 8-100.

This colorful and nicely designed book is a must read for children and yes, even adults who could use an easy-to-read primer on today's environmental problems. If we want to educate ourselves and our children, this book covers the science of global warming, the effect on our weather, the impact on plant and animal life and the many steps we can all take to help reverse global warming.

When asked about her favorite green products, author Cambria Gordon said, "My favorite green products are bio-bags . They are completely bio-degradable and great for lining trash cans in the house.  I also can't live without my SIGG stainless steel water bottle.  Mine says "Simply ECO Logical."

Cambria added, "Someone who inspired me to write this book is Rachel Carson.  She was the first female environmentalist to call attention to our environment.  In 1962, she published Silent Spring, a book that exposed the dangers of pesticides and toxic chemicals in mother's milk.  Because of her, President Kennedy took notice and formed an advisory committee on protecting the environment.  In 1970, the EPA was established."

By the way, your carbon footprint is a measure of the amount of carbon dioxide a business or individual emits through the burning of fossil fuels. (Just in case you wanted to know and be eco-savvy.)