10/15/2009

Global Climate Change Can Increase Domestic Violence Calls

Today is Blog Action Day. I've decided to join 10,000 others today by writing about global climate change. It may seem strange to read that a domestic violence advocate is joining in the fight to slow down global climate change. In reality, it makes perfect sense.

During the summer months when the weather is the warmest is when domestic violence agencies receive the most calls. As the climate continues to heat up it is expected that the number of calls will rise. But, this isn't the only reason to write. There's more and it's not pretty.

As global climate change continues to occur natural resources continue to shrink. Countries that have less water, and fewer natural resources sometimes become desperate and turn to war. Already we have seen this happen in the Darfur region of Sudan. One of the most common ways to battle an enemy is through war-related rape. Victims of war related rape are often left helpless, physically injured or dead.

People don't live in a vacuum. We are dependent upon each other for our survival. Being good stewards of our natural resources makes sense from the standpoint of global climate change and victimization. Slowing global warming is also easier than you think.

Here are a few ideas to help slow global warming. Please feel free to leave other suggestions or ideas in the comments field below.

Ways to slow global warming:

Turn off lights when not in use.
Unplug appliances and electronic gadgets when they are not being used.
Recycle. Reduce. Reuse. This applies to clothes, furniture and every aspect of our lives.
Walk, don't ride.
Donate your used cell phone to a domestic violence program.
Buy recycled items whenever you can.
If it's available in your area use mass-transit.
Donate used clothing or household items to your local domestic violence program.
Recycle plastic, glass, metals, aluminum cans and other recyclables. If your city has a recycling program ask for a list.