This week, representatives from most of the world’s nations are meeting in Bali to discuss what can be done about global warming. The debates already center on the costs of ameliorative efforts and whether we can do anything to stop global warming. On the other hand, there seems little debate that relatively inexpensive steps, which would cut down on pollution generally, ought to be taken. I have a few suggestions:

1.) One of the major sources of carbon emissions and pollution in the United States is the exhaust from lawn mowers. If ever there were a relatively cost-free way of reducing pollution, reducing the number of gas-powered lawn mowers seems a no-brainer. For people who are using these mowers to mow relatively small plots of grass, I would suggest one of the following. The easiest thing to do would be to plow up the grass and either plant wild flowers or just let the land go to natural plants and grasses that don’t require frequent mowing. An added benefit of the latter would be a reduced need for watering. As an alternative to those folks who love their grass lawns, get a push mower. The added benefit of this is that you’ll also get more exercise and stay healthier as a result.

2.) Since many folks in the Lawrence area are concerned with reducing carbon emissions and annoyed with the increase in traffic and often inadequacy of parking downtown, let’s do two things. First, we should restore the trolley system to Lawrence. People could then take streetcars and leave their own cars at home. This has been done successfully in many cities.

Second, we should all decide, at least those of us who are healthy enough to walk, that we simply won’t drive anywhere within walking distance. Once, again, more walking will make us all healthier.

3.) We should all adopt more pets and have them sleep with us. In Australia, a number of aboriginal tribes have learned to sleep next to and covered by dingoes, Australian feral dogs. This eliminates their need for fires at night. My wife and I have gotten in the habit (i.e. the dogs and cats who own us give us no choice) of sharing our bed with an assortment of animals. Since the animals have a higher normal body temperature than we do, just four or five next to us permit us to keep the thermometer at 63 degrees. Not only do we save on power bills, they are also highly soothing (particularly the cats when they purr, as opposed to our beagle-terrier mix who snores) and help us to fall asleep.

So, my suggestions are simple, healthy, and inexpensive and will help reduce pollution and carbon emissions. Why not try them?