By Katherine Yaremko

The University was one of many schools to watch “Focus the Nation: Global Warming Solutions for America,” a program hosted online by Edward Mazria, an internationally recognized architect. This was an attempt to spread awareness about the effects of climate change, along with procedures the general public could take to hinder its advancement.

The consensus concerning the progression of global warming and humankind’s participation in this advancement has been recognized by organizations such as NASA, NORR (an environmentally sound engineering and architecture firm) and the National Academy of Sciences.

Statistics presented by “Focus the Nation” revealed the seriousness of global warming. Earth’s atmosphere now contains 385 parts per million of carbon dioxide for the first time in 3,000 years. According to the scientific community, Earth has only seven years to level out greenhouse gas emissions before climate change reaches a critical point.

Scientists already predict that by the year 2050, coral reefs will have disappeared, and 30 percent of snow pack crucial for such necessities such as drinking water, along with many others, will be gone. Other prognostications include extreme weather conditions and a doubling in the number of forest fires occurring around the globe.

Current changes in climate around the globe are already troubling, according to the program. Arctic ice is melting 30 years ahead of projections. Scientists also predict that if sea levels rise by as much as one meter, coastal cities around the world would be partially submerged.

A group founded by Mazria has developed the 2030 Challenge, which gives architects and developers “targets” to help in the effort to combat global warming. Under the Challenge, new buildings would be required to consume 50 percent less energy than today’s average consumption rates. By 2030, all buildings will also be carbon-neutral, according to the Challenge.

The 2030 Challenge has started an Earth Day petition, in addition to a graphic design and video competition. Further information about these competitions and their monetary prizes can be viewed at focusthenation.org/competitions.