California Takes Steps to Deal With Global Warming

One year after several devastating hurricanes, intense nor'easters and a marked increase in powerful thunderstorms and tornadoes, California is leading the way in the effort to reduce greenhouse gases. Scientists agree that the problem of global warming is entering a critical phase where we may be approaching a tipping point.

California's initiative targets a 25% decrease in carbon dioxide pollution by 2020. That would be a return to 1990 levels. Because the Golden State has such a large economy actions it takes can have a profound effect nationally. It has also been a leader in such initiatives and has prompted other states to follow suit. Experts hope this initiative will also do so.

The Bush Administration, as part of its war against science, has denied all studies and warnings about global warming. Hurricane Katrina's fatal intensity crossing a warmed Gulf of Mexico illustrated that we ignore science at our peril.