Al Gore's Truth or Consequences

It's easy to feel powerless when it comes to global warming. But here are some of the best ways we can all make a difference.

• Best of America

Fact: The average auto spews a pound of carbon dioxide every mile.

Fix: Hitch a ride a couple of days. Cutting down on driving just 20 miles a week would save about 1,000 pounds of the greenhouse gas a year. Coordinate your commute at erideshare.com.

Fact: Every year 12 million barrels of oil are used to produce the 100 billion plastic shopping bags we use once and toss in the landfill, taking centuries to decompose.

Fix: Keep reusable tote bags in the car for all grocery stops. Buy them at energyguide.com or hire a pro at resnet.us.

Fact: The average meal travels well over 1,200 miles by truck, ship or plane, producing thousands of pounds of carbon emissions, before it reaches your table.

Fix: Shop at farmers' markets and food co-ops. Go to climatebiz.com for other ways to fight global warming with your knife and fork.

From Reader's Digest - May 2007