As more research is done, the scientific community continues to present more compelling evidence that the effects of anthropogenic global warming are real -- human activities are affecting the environment around us. There is an essential balance between our environment and our economy that must be preserved, because without a concern for the environment the future of our economy is endangered. I am pleased that a growing number of companies have recognized this and have realized that by acting now to reduce the growth of greenhouse gas emissions we can prevent future problems for our environment and our economy.

That’s why I am a cosponsor of H.R. 620, the Climate Stewardship Act of 2007, which creates a National Greenhouse Gas Database and establishes a program for market-driven reduction of greenhouse gases through the use of trade-able emissions allowances. This important legislation will curb the growth of greenhouse gas emissions by improving efficiency and promoting cleaner alternatives in the energy sector through a market-driven "cap-and-trade" program.

Through these incentives we can push the United States - and especially Kansas - to the foreground on alternative energy technology. Developing these technologies will benefit the environment immediately and offers the potential to sell these technologies to countries that are rapidly becoming large emitters of greenhouse gases such as China and India.

The consequences of sudden climate change, such as rising oceans, increased storm activity and the displacement of wildlife, are too great to ignore. Public policy to stop global warming must, therefore, be informed by the best science available.

As a Co-Chair of the House Biofuels Caucus and a member of the House Renewable Fuels Caucus, I strongly believe in the importance of our continued federal investment in research and technology.

For example, I believe that alternative fuels and advanced technology vehicles are integral to improving urban air quality, decreasing our dependence on foreign oil, reducing emissions of greenhouse gases and creating new economic opportunities in emerging technologies.

To reduce atmospheric carbon dioxide, significant investment and incentives will be needed to change the technology, processes, and products that run our economy. We need all of the cars on the road to be "greener" than the hybrids on the market today. Electrical plants that burn fossil fuels will need to be replaced by facilities that use renewable energy sources, such as geothermal, wind, solar, and tidal energy.

Innovative private companies can actually play a significant role in the research and development of alternative energy technology by developing new products and infrastructure that will bring green energy to the masses. With the proper incentives, renewable energy technology will open new markets.

Little changes you can make in your every day life add up. For example, try:

• Switching to compact florescent light bulbs (the twisty kind)
• Taking your own reusable bags to the grocery store
• Make it a habit to turn your computer off at night
• Turn your computer monitor off at lunch
• Print on both sides of the paper
• Avoid printing if you can -- email the documents instead
• Take your reusable coffee mug to the coffee shop
• Use a reusable bottle for water, rather than emptying bottle after bottle
• Consider carpooling, biking, or public transportation
• Install a programmable thermostat in your house
• Switch to non-toxic cleaning products
• Recycle
• Get your kids and/or parents involved
• Tell your friends!!

For more ideas on how to make a little difference every day, search the internet for "how to be green."