"Most polar bears could die off by 2050," reads a recent MSNBC headline. Thinning sea ice from global warming is expected to wipe out two-thirds of these arctic bears worldwide, including the entire population in Alaska.

Global warming is thought to be associated with the emission of too many greenhouse gases. The earth's heat is radiated outward, and some of that heat is absorbed by the gases. This mechanism helps keep the earth warm enough to sustain life. However, various human activities, such as burning fossil fuels, release additional pollution and greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, making for extra heat retention. According the National Resources Defense Council (NRDC), over the past 50 years, the average global temperature has increased at the fastest rate ever recorded.

This is cause for concern, as global warming is already causing serious damage. Back in 2002, several states, including Colorado, experienced horrible droughts and their worst fire seasons ever. Extreme heat waves in 2003 caused thousands of deaths in Europe and India. With increased ocean temperatures, hurricanes have become more destructive. And these are just a few examples. The consequences will only continue to get worse. Ultimately, global warming could be the demise to life on earth. While the worst is yet to come, there is no time to be wasted; the long-term effects of global warming are too detrimental to ignore.

With all the recent hype about "going green," it would seem as if Americans are headed in the right direction. However, much more needs to be done and it needs to be done now.

According to NRDC, "Though Americans make up just 4 percent of the world's population, we produce 25 percent of the carbon dioxide pollution from fossil-fuel burning- by far the largest share of any country. In fact, the United States emits more carbon dioxide than China, India and Japan, combined." Cleary, the U.S. is fueling the problem of global warming and needs to take some major steps towards reducing its impact. The Bush administration has taken virtually no concern in the environment and global warming, which is quite disturbing. So, it is up to other government officials and common citizens to take a stand.

The world has become dependent upon fossil fuels; cutting emissions entirely would be impossible. Nevertheless, there is a lot that can be done to reduce these emissions.

It would be great if everyone would drive a hybrid car and use solar energy to heat his or her home, but, according to Conservation International, even little things can make a difference. Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent lights, which last 10 times longer and use 66 percent less energy. Turn down the thermostat just three degrees in the winter and up three degrees in the summer to prevent the emission of more than 1000 pounds of carbon dioxide each year. Get better gas mileage by inflating your car tires. Turn down the hot water heater. Use cold water with in the washing machine. Switch to reusable glassware and containers. The possibilities are endless.

Anyone can reduce his or her carbon footprint by taking a few simple steps. So, why wait? The time to start is now.