10 MYTHS
ABOUT GLOBAL WARMING

1. It isn't really happening.
   Documented science overwhelmingly shows temperatures rising rapidly.
   
2. It's natural.
   Temperature increases, especially since the 1970s, are far above natural variations.
   
3. Any effects will be very gradual. 
   Not only are severe storms getting stronger, but climate history shows sharp climate changes can occur abruptly, in only a few years.
   
4. It does not affect the U.S. 
   The U.S. is experiencing rising sea levels, more severe storms and droughts, die-off of forests altered animal migrations, and loss of glaciers such as those in Glacier National Park.
5. It will be good for us. 
   Some areas may become more pleasantly warm, but the cost of negative effects will far outweigh any benefits; disease and heat deaths are increasing.
6. Agriculture will benefit 
   Carbon dioxide may make some crops grow faster, but also will accelerate weeds, pests and droughts; crops may not grow well where they once did as climate zones shift.
7. It's being handled by our government. 
   The current U.S. Administration has been advocating studying, not actively dealing with, global warming. Its energy policy is almost completely based on burning more coal and oil. Most state and local governments are unprepared for major changes.
8. It's not a big deal compared to national security. 
   Global warming is actually the most serious threat to the widest range of human concerns. Our national and world security is directly threatened by negative climate effects on weather, water supply, disease, agriculture, marine resources, and health.
9. Technology will solve the problem for us. 
   Massive "fixes" like burying greenhouse gases are very unlikely, but many smaller changes can make a difference and are available now.
10. There's nothing to be done anyway. 
    Everyone can make a difference. See pages 2 and 3 for what individuals and towns can do.

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