Green Daily

Whether you agree with Republican Vice Presidential candidate Sarah Palin that global warming may not exist and isn't caused by industry or with Democratic Vice Presidential candidate Joe Biden that global warming clearly exists and industry needs to be regulated to slow its impact on global warming you should vote.

Here are a few reasons why:

1. Voting helps direct local, state and national environmental policy. Why do some municipalities recycle #5 plastics and others don't? Why do some states have stiffer water quality standards or emissions standards? It's all about the people in charge who you elect.

2. Voting impacts how much time elected officials spend in your part of town. On a local level, if a politician knows the Third Ward or SoHo or The East Side doesn't vote they typically won't spend much time listening to that area's concerns. Vote, they'll pay attention to you later. If environmentalism is your biggest issue, you'll have a listener.

3. Voting is sexy. It says engaged, aware, proactive and concerned about the welfare of more than just your Beamer. Wondering why that cute guy/girl won't give you the time of day? Try inviting them to vote with you. "Hey, want to stand in line with me for an hour while we participate in our nation's freedom?" Works like a charm, and it could count as an environmentally friendly date.

4. Voting gives you a good excuse to take a day off of work. Perhaps your job requires you to drive or to be online all day, use a space heater, print lots of paper. Go vote and reduce your environmental impact for the day. Then go home and sit in the dark.

5. Voting helps you stay informed. When all your favorite TV shows, football teams and children are taking up your time voting gives you an excuse to learn about the issues. Do you know which potential senator takes your view on the environment? Do you know what options are available to decrease traffic congestion? Casting a vote could prompt you to pay attention to policy.