Climate change is now reality and one of the most important challenges that humanity has to face, due to the threat it presents for society, the economy, agriculture and the global environment. Scientific evidence shows that we're at a critical moment, in which decisive action must be taken at all levels.
The Balearic Islands is one of the regions in both Spain and Europe that contributes most to global warming. Half of its emissions come from energy production ( from the thermal power station mostly), a third from transport and the rest from industry and agriculture, among others.
Currently, the Balearics emits double the level of greenhouse gases (GHG) than it did in 1990, when the Kyoto Protocol began to be drafted.
What does Amics de la Terra do?
To face up to the climate change challenge, Amics de la Terra works simultaneously at two levels: promoting public awareness and driving political action through a range of activities.
Communication, awareness raising and political action on climate change:
- 'Climate outings' to learn about the effects of climate change on different environments in Mallorca.
- Showing of the documentary 'Manual de uso de una nave espacial' ('Handbook for a spacecraft').
- Film forum about the effects of climate change in Mallorca.
- Performance about climate justice.
- Driving political measures to reduce GHG emissions.
- Promotion of renewable energy as an alternative to fossil fuels.
- Running climate change awareness workshops for primary and secondary schools.
Take action!
- Install solar panels to heat water or produce electricity.
- Change your light bulbs for low energy ones that save money and CO2.
- Walk and use public transport more.
- Turn off items on stand-by and unnecessary lights, which use energy needlessly.
- Buy local products; transport increases CO2.
- Regulate the thermostat: heating at 21 degrees and the air conditioning at 24 degrees.
- Install double glazing to maintain a comfortable temperature.
- Use less water and re-use rain water or left-over clean water; it's already scarce and it will soon be more so.
- Reduce waste and recycle as much as you can (it saves up 50% of energy).
- Find out more and share these ideas with your friends.