In recent years global warming and carbon footprints have been a hot topic in the news. Global warming is “an increase in the earth's atmospheric and oceanic temperatures widely predicted to occur due to an increase in the greenhouse effect resulting especially from pollution” (http://www.mdbc.gov.au/subs/The_River/glossary.html), and a carbon footprint is “the total set of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions caused directly and indirectly by an individual, organization, event or product (UK Carbon Trust 2008).

The Seattle Office of Sustainability and Environment is offering a program where individuals can learn more about these important issues and will train individuals how to become a Carbon Coach. The free six-week long program trains individuals to educate, motivate and support others in their household as well as in their community to reduce their carbon footprints/climate pollution in their lifestyles. Training topics include learning about:

• Carbon emissions caused by transportation options
• Waste generation
• Home energy use
• Materials purchasing

The goal for completion of the program is for Carbon Coaches to raise awareness, make an impact and engage in public outreach about issues dealing with climate change.

Registration for this course ends September 20. If you are interested visit the Seattle Office of Sustainability and Environment website: http://www.seattle.gov/ENVIRONMENT/