Selection Rationale
The resources I have selected are based on very broad criteria. In compiling the list, my main motivation is to provide the average individual with easy access to quality information about becoming more environmentally friendly. I assume that people viewing this list may have little or no knowledge of why it is important to go green or the possible steps to take in advancement of this goal. The list is designed to progress from general topics on the environment to specific actions that may be taken in support of the environment. Collectively, the resources will hopefully inspire environmentally responsible behaviors.

The list starts with a resource that explores the beauty and diversity of the environment and biosphere. This choice is included to illustrate the planet’s diverse species and habitats, and what may be lost with climate change. From there,detailed reports on the science of global warming, climate change, and other environmental issues are offered to provide some context and understanding of the larger situation. Hopefully these resources will underscore the importance of going green. From there, the list delves into more practical actions people can take as consumers or homeowners to reduce their environmental impact. This ranges from appliance and electronics purchases to vehicle purchases to behaviors around one's home and while shopping. Hopefully, after exploring these resources, a person without any prior environmental interests will be motivated to take action, and have the knowledge to create positive change.


1. Planet Earth: The Complete Series











Title: Planet Earth: The Complete Series
Author: David Attenborough
Publisher: BBC Video
Date: 2007.
URL: Find it at your local library

Why I chose this resource: This award-winning television series, now on DVD and high-definition formats, offers a comprehensive and breathtaking look at the diverse species and habitats of Earth. It demonstrates that the planet is much bigger than the human species.


2. GreenFacts Digests





Title: GreenFacts Digests: facts on the health and the environment
Author: GreenFacts
Date: Copyright 2001 - 2007.
URL: http://www.greenfacts.org/en/index.htm

Why I chose this resource: GreenFacts offers a collection of digests based on scientific reports. The digests include three levels of detail: a summary level, a details level, and a source level. The summary and detail levels are written in clear language by the GreenFacts team, while the source level comes from the scientific reports. Through the different levels of detail, the digests can be understood by anyone, regardless of their scientific knowledge. This makes the digests invaluable for individuals wanting to learn more about the science behind environmental issues.


3. Energy Star









Title: Energy Star
Author: U.S. Environmental Protection Agencyand U.S. Department of Energy
Date: None available.
URL: http://www.energystar.gov/

Why I chose this resource: The Energy Star website provides comprehensive lists of products that meet the Energy Star criteria for energy efficiency. The website also provides energy efficient home improvement recommendations. As a result, the website is a great resource for making purchasing decisions that can improve energy consumption.


4. Fuel Economy



Title: Fuel Economy
Author: U.S. Department of Energy and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Date: Last modified November 16, 2007.
URL: http://fueleconomy.gov/

Why I chose this resource: The Fuel Economy website offers the ability to compare vehicles across a number of environmental criteria. It also provides new fuel economy standards for 1985 to 2008 model year vehicles. All of this information can assist people looking to purchase the most environmentally friendly vehicles possible, whether new or used.


5. Climate Change: What You Can Do







Title: Climate Change: What You Can Do
Author: The Nature Conservancy
Date: Copyright 2007.
URL: http://www.nature.org/initiatives/climatechange/activities/art19630.html

Why I chose this resource: Based on the recommendations of Patrick Gonzalez, a Nature Conservancy scientist and member of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), The Nature Conservancy provides a list of nine easy tips for each individual to positively impact the climate. Each tip includes an estimate of the carbon emissions that will be saved by following the behavior.


6. How You Can Help the Environment


Title: How You Can Help the Environment in Your Daily Life
Author: WWF
Date: Last modified August 2, 2007.
URL: http://www.panda.org/how_you_can_help/at_home/index.cfm

Why I chose this resource: WWF provides a list of practical things an individual can do to help the environment. The suggestions are extensive, and they aren't limited to just one sphere; the list offers suggestions for around one's home, while out shopping, and in the garden.