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As we progress into the future, it is becoming increasingly ﻿ difficult for skeptics to dispute the glaring existence of global warming. Global warming has been the cause of a slew of recent issues, including an increase in the number and severity of hurricanes, higher temperatures and droughts, and various other environmental changes. When making policies that affect the environment, leaders must accept the fact that global warming is a threat and must be handled seriously, strive to increase the public's awareness of the issue, and shape their policies along the lines of the Kyoto Protocol. Good thesis statement!

Every year, the threat of global warming grows, and there is incontrovertible proof to support the truth. In just the last century, "the world's average surface temperature rose by...1 degree Fahrenheit," faster than it has done so for the last thousand years. (Source A) This fact is reiterated by several government studies (Source B). The inevitable threat of global warming cannot be ignored if leaders know enough about it, and realize they must act quickly and efficiently to address it. Comprehensive solutions that work on a speedy reversal of carbon dioxide emissions and better energy sources should ensue. That being said, a policy must have realistic goals if those who support it want it to succeed (Source D). A country with a pollution-free environment is seemingly impossible, but if leaders start implementing beneficial policies now, there may still be hope for a healthier planet.

A good first step in implementing a policy would be to inform the public about the threats of global warming, to ease the process of enactment and to erase possible opposition from uninformed people. If people understand that they themselves can help preserve and protect the environment, they will not oppose constructive policies. According to one study, if forests are protected and restored, it can offset "20 percent of carbon dioxide emissions over the next 50 years," (Source A). The public should know they can be a part of the movement to slow global warming, by not purchasing as much firewood, for example. People have also probably noticed that plants are blossoming and that birds are laying their eggs earlier (Source F). If they understand why these strange phenomena are occurring, they will want to help reverse global warming, and will support similar policies. Good Point

Finally, the US is one of only three nations worldwide not to ratify the Kyoto Protocol, a step towards environmental conservation it should be modeling its own policies after. In fact, with "34 industrialized nations legally bound to cut emissions," America will be one of the only nations not contributing to curbing global warming, and may suffer economically (Source C). Trade could lessen with countries that do not support America's stance on the economy. Additionally, if the US pledges to follow the guidelines of the Kyoto Protocol, it can be assured that the "world economy [will continue] to grow by 2-3% per year over the next century," (Source E). By preserving its environment, the US can actually guarantee a successful economy. this is really good! I like your use of data ;)

In order to promote good policies, leaders have to make serious decisions, inform their constituents about the environmental crisis, and study the Kyoto Protocol. Study the Kyoto Protocol? If good policies are put in place, carbon dioxide emissions can be offset, and our planet may continue to thrive. You make some really interesting points, and the language is very clear. You may want to think about a little more analysis. The quotes are pretty supportive, but if you could add around one or two more to each paragraph with sufficient analysis, the essay would improve. Nice work!

Your thesis doesn't really explain what you're going to talk about...it's very good, but you don't talk about how to inform the public/why they need to do those things