des

<<In order for humans to "re-evolve", a vertebrate with similar genetic and ecological state to our ancestor would have to encounter more-or-less the same situations thoughout millions of years.>> Why is this so unlikely? It's the same planet. Given time, and environment enough to survive in, I think the descendants of chimpanzees would appear very much like us.

If our physical form has its advantages, in terms of natural selection, wouldn't it be likely that those same traits should be selected for again? Whatever makes us most adaptable gives us an edge. Our planet apparently likes our bodies, mores the pity. Here's something we're assuming, though, that perhaps we should not: Are we, really, the most intelligent animal on the planet? Or simply the most manipulative? Perhaps whales, for instance, have a better understanding of the universe, and simply don't feel the need to flaunt it. This is fun, guys! Excellent discussions. It's my first time, so how am I doing so far?

Since the ice caps are certainly melting, oceanic salinity is definitely falling. We don't know exactly where the shut off valve is, in terms of deep ocean currents, but at some point it's assumed... the gulf stream conveyor, as mentioned, for example, will simply stop delivering warm water from the Carribean to England, which will in turn translate to overall ambient temperature, in effect freezing western Europe over solid. Imagine the same thing happening worldwide, follow the map of deep sea currents. Merry old England isn't the only one in trouble. Did your own home town once host an ice field? Because it's highly speculated that salt, or the lack thereof, is an ice age trigger. Cold toward the poles, with drastically increased snowfall, while the equatorial regions parch under cloudless skies. But no worries. After several thousand years, with enough water again safely locked in ice caps, oceanic salinity will once again return to normal, those blessed currents will return, driving warmth to extreme latitudes, restoring rainfall at the equator, and we can go back to business as usual.

What do we do, to act quickly? Isn't that the question? As usual, it's agreeing on a solution that trips us up. I'm assuming none of us are doing anything at all in our daily lives to contribute to global warming:)

Just... build a little pond(s) for them, even out of old wine barrels, or something. I get frogs moving into mine all the time, anyway. Great project for kids; it's easy. Find one of those simple little, inexpensive, pond kits (solar powered, preferably) and before you know it you'll have to post "frog crossing" signs... another great project for kids. Frogs are fun!... not to mention great environmental indicators, as we've said.

TerrysID: definitely patent that "idea" and don't wait for your final version. Then talk to me. I work for a company developing wind power. Sincerely hope all of us are typing via 100% clean and renewable power. If you don't have your own solar system, or the like, maybe look into purchasing a Green Tag. Plently of companies out there offering them, if not your local utility. Which one of you quoted: If we're not part of the solution, we're actively contributing to the problem?

Makes a good case for more marijuana patches, about the most efficient carbon sink, as plants go. Check it out. That makes two marijuana comments for the day. I'll move on to something else.

I once knew a parrot who used to hide my room mate's stash. She'd tip-toe into his room, root it out and re-stash it someplace else, then wait for him to go looking for it and laugh. I think she was getting back at him for the time he got her stoned, and thought it funny.

I'd press both buttons without the slightest hesitation. I'd do it so that the rest of the poor creatures who share our existence could all breathe a collective sigh of relief, no matter how temporary. The key word in the proposal, I think, is "random". Yeah, I might be one, but I'd do it. And I think that little genie does exist, hidden somewhere. Anytime a population exceeds its sustainable limits, something always happens to bring it back in check. Just because luck and technology have helped us push our proverbial wall back, doesn't mean we can avoid the fall. Bottom line, we have not been good stewards.