Download Fact Sheet - Energy Greenhouse Effect

The Greenhouse Effect is a natural process where certain
gases trap the warmth of the sun which enables us to live
on planet Earth. These gases occur naturally, however
excessive amounts are being generated through human
activity. The average Australian household generates
more than 18 tonnes of greenhouse gases per year,
which is significantly more than other countries.
The enhanced Greenhouse Effect is a global problem
and we need to work together to reduce the amount of
greenhouse gases we produce. You can use the tips in
this brochure to kick-start your commitment to reducing
greenhouse gases.
The
Greenhouse
Effect
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Council Programs
Caboolture Shire Council continues
to promote a range of key
environmental programs such
as Land for Wildlife, Voluntary
Conservation Agreements,
Urban Wildlife, Cities for Climate
Protection™, and Catchment
Management.
For more information
Phone Council’s Call Centre on
Caboolture Shire Council is committed to
reducing greenhouse gas emissions and
is a member of the International Cities
for Climate Protection ProgramTM. Council has been
working internally and with the local community
to reduce emissions and reach key milestones as
outlined by the Program.
Immediate action must be
taken to reduce the
54 200 100
enhanced greenhouse
or visit Council’s website
effect and slow down
www.caboolture.qld.gov.au
climate change.
Printed on 100% recycled stock using organic (vegetable) inks
VERSION 1 SEPTEMBER 2006
The Greenhouse Effect
The Greenhouse Effect
What are the local consequences?
The Greenhouse Effect is a naturally-occurring
process that enables us to live on the planet. If we
did not have the Greenhouse Effect it would be too
cold for anything to survive. After the sun's rays hit
the earth, energy is radiated back into
space. Gases in the atmosphere
trap this energy as heat and
act the way a glass cover on a
greenhouse does.
• Climatologists predict that within this century average
daily temperatures will increase up to 4oC, increasing
the amount of hot summer days
The 'enhanced greenhouse effect'
or 'global warming' has occurred
due to increased carbon dioxide,
methane and other greenhouse
gases being released into the
atmosphere. This increase is mainly
due to the burning of fossil fuels
for electricity and transport, however agriculture
and decomposing waste can also have an impact.
Methane is produced in large amounts by cows, in
rice paddy fields and as a result of rotting organic
waste materials. The more greenhouse gasses we
produce, the more there are in the atmosphere to
absorb energy and retain it as heat.
Fossil Fuels
Fossil fuels drive our economy. They are used to
produce our electricity, run our transport, and they
are part of nearly every product we use.
Fossil fuels are finite, however recent research
reveals that we have reached “peak oil” and that
fuel will become more expensive as it becomes less
available.
At a household level, there are many
ways to make a difference.
• Switch to 'Green Power'. Contact your electricity
provider to find out more about the renewable
energy options available
• Animals and plants that rely on the current range
of temperatures to survive will struggle to do so,
resulting in the loss of species
• Turn off lights and appliances when you are not
using them. Appliances left in 'standby' mode still
use power
• Sea levels will rise due to melting of ice
caps and glaciers
• Purchase energy-efficient light globes (compact
fluorescents). They use less energy, last up to eight
times longer and will save in running costs
• Farming practices will change due to
plant growth patterns
• More extreme weather events will occur
• Insurance premiums will increase due
to more sever weather events
• There will be an influx of non-native
plant species
• Potential of climate change refugees from low
lying Pacific and South East Asia Islands coming to
Australia.
• Open windows to cool your home rather than
turning on the air conditioner
• Plant trees that shade your home from the harsh
western sun
• Insulate your home and ensure seals on doors and
windows are in good condition
• Purchase energy efficient appliances to save on
long term running costs
• Reduce, reuse and recycle. Using resources again
means that we do not have to mine, or cut down,
virgin materials
• Compost all organic food and garden wastes. This
can reduce methane gas emissions and you have
the added bonus of a great natural soil conditioner
for the garden
• Carpool, ride, walk or catch public transport to
work and school
• 'Drive Smart'. Smooth driving, regular servicing,
combining small trips and sticking to the speed
limit can save you up to 20% in fuel consumption
• Design your home with energy efficiency in mind