Challenge and Opportunity

	What's New? Find out everything you want to know about Solar (PV) Energy
Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary in Topsfield boasts a ground array of 60 photovoltaic panels, which has the capacity to produce about 12,000 kilowatt hours of electricity per year.

Mass Audubon recognizes that rapid climate warming is a major threat to land conservation and wildlife in the Commonwealth and on the planet. Current climate change expectations also create challenges for our economy, security, and health.

Rapid increases in overall global temperatures will lead to rising sea levels and alteration of habitats all over the world. Read about the possible effects of rapid global warming on the nature of Massachusetts, Some Anticipated Consequences of Global Warming: Implications for the Nature of Massachusetts, A Preliminary Assessment*.

Mass Audubon supports the responsible production of renewable energy resources and reductions in energy demand. Doing so will help meet national energy needs and reduce pollution while fostering a sustainable lifestyle.

Explore this site to learn how Mass Audubon is responding to the threat of rapid climate change. We invite you to join us in this effort.

Why is the Planet Warming So Quickly?

Emissions of heat-trapping greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide (CO₂), are the primary driver of current rapid global warming. Each time we drive a car, use electricity from coal-powered plants, or heat our homes with oil or natural gas, we release carbon dioxide and other gases into the air.

Clearing forests also contributes to the increase in emissions but to a lesser extent. These gases linger in the atmosphere, causing an overall increase in temperature on our planet. To reduce CO₂ emissions, we must make a conscientious effort to reduce emissions of the gases that contribute to climate change. Each of us can do our part to help with this effort.

The drilling, mining, and transporting of fossil fuels, such as oil and coal, also causes severe environmental degradation and habitat destruction. The effects of our current dependence on fossil fuels will have a negative impact on the environment for decades or even centuries to come. Fortunately, there is an alternative path.

You can apply many of the steps we've taken to reduce energy use and dependence on fossil fuels in your homes and workplaces. Taking action now will help protect the nature of Massachusetts. It will also leave a healthier planet for our children and grandchildren.