It has been an unusually warm October day. So could we have more days like this in the future?A new study just released Wednesday on the impact of global warming here in the northeast claims its possible. In fact, one day Massachusetts could be more like South Carolina. After years of research a team of climate scientists from universities across the northeast released a first of its kind study on the potential impact global warming could have on Massachusetts.Using two emissions scenarios, high emissions and curbed emissions of greenhouse gases, the study projects what our climate could be like in the years to come. The results are eye opening. Boston currenlty has 10 days with temps over 90 degrees. If emissions are curbed, by the end of the century that number jumps to 32 days. Higher emissions result in 64 days of 90+ degree heat. Snow is a staple in New England but a warmer world would cut the number of days with snow on the ground by 25%, and under the higher emissions scenario, by as much as 50% sending the ski industry into a tail spin. Regardless of projected emissions we are on a path for more extremes, more frequent droughts and more flooding events. Tell-tale signs of climate change have played out this past year. Although global warming is a global problem, the northeast, when ranked against other nations of the world, is the seventh largest emitter of carbon dioxide.This means the steps we take to curb greenhouse gases will directly influence weather patterns to come.Here are some tips to reduce your greenhouse emissions.1. Use compact flourescent lightbulbs.2. Turn off lights and appliances when not it use.3. Buy energy efficient appliances.4. Try to consolidate trips in your car.5. Set air conditioner settings a few degrees higher and heater settings a few degrees lower.6. Properly insulate your home.7. Buy more locally produced food and products which don't require as much transportation.8. Turn down the temperature of your water heater.
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