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Answer the following questions for each chapter section and then answer the Central Question.

Many consider climate and atmospheric change to be the most serious environmental challenge that our species has ever faced. Massive releases of greenhouse gases resulting from the activity of a growing human population have already warmed Earth and threaten to radically disrupt the entire biosphere. The challenges posed by climate change put our collective life and economic support systems at risk. In the face of such a challenge, what can an individual do?

□Follow the science.

Although climate scientists are in overwhelming agreement on climate change and its causes, the deniers of climate change science present competing conclusions on the present state and dynamics of Earth’s climate, as well as the societal and environmental stakes. The best way to sort your way through these competing narratives is to build on what you have learned in this course by following developments in published science, paying particular attention to data associated with global temperatures, storm intensities, depth and frequencies of drought, sea level rise, and so forth.

□Conserve energy.

Collectively, we can alter the amount of energy produced simply by conserving energy. Energy utilities report that conservation by consumers has already reduced energy demand in both the United States and Europe. A first step is to make sure that your residence is well insulated. If possible, you can also set your thermostat to reduce energy used for heating in winter (no higher than 68° F) and cooling in summer (no cooler than 78° F). Save energy by walking or bicycling whenever practical and safe, or use public mass transport. If you operate a motor vehicle, you can try to maximize fuel economy by choosing a fuel-efficient one and keeping it well maintained.

□Support efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

As a citizen, you can use your voice and vote to support transitioning to renewable energy sources and reducing greenhouse gas production. You can support local, regional, and national programs fostering conservation agriculture and forestry practices that help sustain these natural carbon sinks. You can also support legislation that levels a cost on carbon emissions associated with power production and other industrial activity. As a consumer, you can go one step further and support clean energy initiatives offered by your local electrical utility.

□Become involved.

In ways large and small, we can all be a force for constructive change. After completing this course in environmental science, you should have a broader understanding of the science, issues, and potential solutions to today’s environmental challenges. More important, you are better prepared to expand that base of knowledge far beyond where it is now. As you do so, let your informed voice be heard where appropriate and become involved individually and with organizations that reflect your knowledge and understanding of the most pressing environmental issues, whether they be related to climate change or the many other issues surveyed in this text. In the end, because these issues reflect what we do or have done to the environment of our planet, all are interrelated.