King County takes action against global warming
Ten steps to reduce greenhouse gases today
 Global warming is a challenge and an opportunity for each of us to show that we can change our habits and make a collective difference in reducing global greenhouse gas emissions.
Experts say American households can cut their greenhouse gas emissions, such as carbon dioxide, by about 25 percent in six months through a few simple steps. Some of them save you money, and others keep you healthy!
1. Know your “carbon footprint”
Your carbon footprint is the amount of greenhouse gases you produce, measured in units of carbon dioxide. Knowing which of your daily activities at home and work create greenhouse gas emissions is the first step to changing your habits. Bonneville Environmental Foundation provides a “carbon calculator” tailored to the Pacific Northwest.
2. Bus, bike or walk to your errands.
Transportation (driving alone in our cars!) is our biggest source of greenhouse gas emissions in Washington State. We know it’s hard to give up your car, but in the spring and summer, try a new way of getting there! King County Metro Transit offers information on bus routes and resources on bicycling in our region, including bike maps and a downtown BikeStation. If you have to use a car for a short trip, try car sharing with Flexcar's new fleet, in convenient areas near your home or workplace.
3. Change your commute times.
If you can work it out with your employer, change your commute time to avoid rush hour. Know your ideal commute time, through real-time traffic monitoring. Greenhouse gases are worst when you are in stop and go traffic.
Learn seven more...
National spotlight
Sims named to board of directors of ICLEI - Local Governments for Sustainability USA
- King County's leadership in climate change mitigation and adaptation has resulted in Executive Ron Sims being named to the board of directors of ICLEI-Local Governments for Sustainability USA. Learn more.
Governing Magazine spotlights King County for climate change adaptation work
Sims testifies at Senate Committee on the Environment and Public Works
Sims shares county's climate change actions with Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi 
Sims honored with national Public Official of the Year Award
- Governing Magazine's November 2006 issue profiled King County Executive Ron Sims for its national Public Official of the Year Award, saying Sims ‘produces better results than almost anyone in American local government.'. Learn more.
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