Planet Earth has a complex climate system. Scientists are still trying to fully understand how this "system" works. However, there is now a global consensus on one specific issue: the Earth is warming up. Man-made gasses in the atmosphere, coupled with dynamic man made changes to the natural environment are the main contributory factors.



Carbon dioxide (CO2), a gas that naturally occurs, is a significant cause of global warming. Ice cores show carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere have remained between 180 and 300 parts per million for the past half a million years. However, in recent years, CO2 levels have risen sharply to at least 380 parts per million. Historically, natural emissions have been balanced by natural absorptions. For example: when plants photosynthesize. However, the recent increase shows more CO2 is entering the atmosphere than is being absorbed and human activity is one of the main causes of this change.

The overall result is that the temperature of the planet is increasing. Climate change is underway and it is affecting every part of the planet. In South Africa we have seen milder winters and warmer and wetter summers. These changes not only affect the human population, but also wildlife, with many species facing potential extinction. Some parts of the planet will be affected more than others. In particular Africa is thought to be at serious risk. Climate change may well lead to social and political problems as migration increases, together with water and food shortages in specific regions.

"Recent increases in average temperature indicate that more CO2 is entering the atmosphere than is being absorbed. Scientists now agree that these increases are almost wholly because of human activity".

Scientists agree that not all climate change is avoidable. However, behavior changes made now may affect the rate of change. Most of the extra carbon dioxide has been released into the atmosphere by the developed world, with the United States of America alone responsible for an estimated quarter of emissions since the 18th century. Future emissions will also be generated by large developing countries like China and India.

Reducing CO2 emissions, developing worldwide low carbon technologies, usable by all nations, not just the richest, on a global scale and agreeing a framework for future development are all part of the solution. However, the solution can start at an individual level and involve everyone. Until recently most people in the western world have taken the supply of energy, water and food for granted, but there is a growing realization, not least due to the recent significant increases in fuel prices, that these are precious commodities we must preserve.

An electricity monitor is a device which helps you to understand the cost of electricity, not just in financial terms but also in the way our electrical usage has an impact on the environment. An electricity monitor, provides up to the second information on the amount of electricity you are using in terms of both power and cost. This means you can see in real time the benefits of turning off electrical devices at home.

Whether it's turning off at the plug rather than just using standby, or simply turning off a light, an electricity monitor shows you the cash impact of changing your habits and behaviors which could amount to savings of hundreds of rands per year. Combine the possible financial savings with the reduced impact using less electricity has on the environment, then installing electricity monitors makes both financial and ethical sense.

Did you know...

* Lights and appliances account for 23% of a household's electricity consumption.

* 72% of a household's electricity is used for space and water heating.

* A boiler is more efficient if kept at a constant 56°C.