One Solution to Global Warming
Of all greenhouse gases, carbon dioxide emissions are most responsible for climate change in the Greenhouse Effect.
One of the most controversial topics surrounding society is climate change. Many people believe not enough is being done by the government to counter the ever-looming problem that is global warming.
But now, some communities in California are taking a stand. 13 cities and one county are banning or discouraging the use of gas stoves in an attempt to reduce fossil fuel emissions. Some cities are banning natural gas hookups to new building construction. Other cities offer builders incentives if they use electric appliances, including possibly being allowed to take up more space on a lot if a house is energy-efficient.
In addition, a town in Silicon Valley, Sunnyvale, changed its building code to offer a density bonus to all-electric housing developments. Density bonuses are the most common incentive used by inclusionary housing programs, increasing the number of dwelling units allowed per acre.
“It’s great to finally make some changes to reverse the effects of climate change, but I’m not sure if I would want to go all-electric. I guess changes are never easy,” said Adams student Juliana Postrado, who often cooks meals on her gas grill during the summer.
Climate change is primarily being caused by carbon dioxide, one of many greenhouse gases. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, natural gas produces 33% of carbon dioxide emissions from electricity generation in the U.S.
“There’s no pathway to stabilizing the climate without phasing gas out of our homes and buildings. This is a must-do for the climate and a livable planet,” said Rachel Golden of the Sierra Club’s building electrification campaign.
Gas stoves are implemented in many households for cooking everyday meals.
These new building codes are set to apply to houses being built starting in 2020, so previously-built houses are not disturbed. While so far, the codes have all been passed in California, cities in Massachusetts, Oregon and Washington state are contemplating putting them in place, according to the Sierra Club.
Global warming is not an issue that can be solved in a day, week, or even a year. One solution will never be grand enough to change the issue happening on a world scale. However, this is a start: Any push in the right direction may be helpful, no matter how little it may seem.
