Sample Church Bulletin Global Warming Blurbs

Global Warming Facts:

  • The five warmest years since the 15th century were all in the 1990s.
  • Arctic ice has thinned 40% since 1970.
  • 100 of the 150 glaciers in Glacier National Park have completely disappeared.
  • Solar power in Germany is growing 20% a year.
  • Seven per cent of Denmark's electricity is now wind generated; the goal is 50% by 2030.
  • Three gas-electric hybrid cars, Honda's Insight, Honda's Civic Hybrid, and Toyota's Prius, average at least 40-50 miles per gallon.

Expected Impacts of Global Warming on New York State

  • Winter cold-related morbidity or mortality will decrease, while summer heat related morbidity or mortality is likely to increase. Of particular concern is the large projected increase in extreme heat days (exceeding 97°F) by 2080–2100, which will require improved warning systems and preparation to avoid severe health impacts.
  • Higher temperatures and more electricity generation for air conditioning increase the formation of ground-level ozone, likely exacerbating asthma and other respiratory diseases.
  • Winter cold-related morbidity or mortality will decrease, while summer heat related morbidity or mortality is likely to increase. Of particular concern is the large projected increase in extreme heat days (exceeding 97°F) by 2080–2100, which will require improved warning systems and preparation to avoid severe health impacts.
  • Higher temperatures and more electricity generation for air conditioning increase the formation of ground-level ozone, likely exacerbating asthma and other respiratory diseases.
  • The duration of summer stratification in lakes will increase, adding to the risk of oxygen depletion and formation of deep-water “dead zones” for fish and other organisms—especially in Lake Erie. The summer recreation season will likely expand as temperatures warm further, but extreme heat, heavy rains, elevated ozone levels, and possible increases in risk from insect- and waterborne diseases may dampen outdoor enthusiasm.
  • Lower water levels coupled with warmer water temperatures may accelerate the accumulation of mercury and other contaminants in the aquatic food chain.

For more information on New York State Impacts

Other facts

  • At current rates of consumption, global oil production is expected to peak no later than 2013 and decline rapidly afterwards. By 2040, it may fall to only half of today’s output.
  • Most desktop computers use between 80-160 watts. To save energy, turn off the computer when not in use for two hours or more; turn off the monitor if not in use for 15 minutes or more (both IBM and Hewlett-Packard encourage employees to turn off idle computers).
  • The U.S. has less than 5% of the world’s population. It consumes 27% of the world’s aluminum.
  • Americans drink more water carbonated in soda than they drink plain from the tap.
  • Recycling an aluminum can takes 5% of the energy required to mine and smelt a new one.
  • Only 60% of the aluminum cans in the U.S. are recycled.
  • Ice now covers 15% less of the Arctic Ocean than 20 years ago.
  • In the 1950’s, polar ice averaged 10 feet in thickness; it’s less than 6 feet now.
  • Mosquitoes have moved north, attacking and killing murres, birds who will not move from their nests.
  • At the current rate of melting, an ice-covered North Pole will no longer exist in 50 years.
  • If that happens, polar bears will become extinct.

UNITARIAN 1-2-3 PROMOTION BULLETS IN CHURCH BULLETIN

This is an example: CHANGE TO OWN NAME and DENOMINATIONAL STATEMENTS UU’s Respond to Global Warming

The Seventh Principle Committee is launching a major effort today to reduce global warming. All congregants are asked to take the "1-2-3 Pledge" to reduce the amount of carbon dioxide released into the air, the major cause of global warming. Our church is taking a leading role in an Ecumenical Ministries coalition involving all major faith groups in Oregon to combat climate change.

This is an example: CHANGE TO YOUR OWN DETAILS

The Global Warming/Green Sanctuary Kickoff is today at 12:30 p.m. in Fuller Hall. Peter Schoonmaker, Ph.D., City Commissioner Dan Saltzman, and David Leslie, Executive Director of Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon, will highlight the program. In addition, environmental organizations and utilities will have booths set up. Refreshments will be available – all are invited!

This is an example: CHANGE TO YOUR OWN DETAILS

Today, 288 households have taken action against global warming through the 1-2-3 Program – help push us over 300 by signing up at the Seventh Principle compact fluorescent bulb demonstration at coffee hour. Also, get information on how to help make our church a more environmentally-friendly Green Sanctuary.

Become a Member of the 400 Club

This is an example: CHANGE TO OWN DETAILS

The Global Warming/Green Sanctuary 1-2-3 Program now has 380 households participating, pledging over 525,000 pounds yearly reduction of carbon dioxide. Help us reach 400 households by filling out the pledge form at the Seventh Principle table at coffee hour. Many people are taking the actions but haven’t filled out the forms – please help us get an accurate count!

FarCry - Mollio