In a collaborative effort, Google sponsored a Web site that invited students to submit unique ideas to help reduce the effects of global warming.

Using a clothesline instead of a dryer, taking your own mug to the coffee shop rather than using a disposable cup and turning the thermostat down 2 degrees are some of the ideas Judge Memorial students submitted.

"I don't think enough people are concerned about global warming," said Kelsey O'Callaghan, a senior at the private Salt Lake City school.

Sloan said he wanted to raise awareness at the school because he believes it's an important issue for the next generation.

"We should leave a small footprint. Unfortunately our generation hasn't done a very good job of being careful," said Sloan.

The collaborative campaign produced several hundred ideas that were narrowed down to a top 50 list that is available online. Many students included ideas that could be used by businesses, such as media outlets giving discounted or free space for public service announcements.

Students from Sloan's class came up with some ways celebrities could help, specifically carpooling to red-carpet events.

"If the stars do it, their fans might start," said Sloan.

Peter Millson, a senior in Sloan's class, said walking, instead of driving, can be rewarding.

"Try walking to more places. It's kind of fun and relaxing," he said.

Another idea presented by students was taking a personal thermos or coffee mug on coffee breaks. In fact, some coffee shops offer a small discount for patrons who use their own mugs.

Senior Laura Burchett said the information about global warming has helped her family become more environmentally conscious.

"My dad makes us change the thermostat by 3 degrees. We just bundle up in socks and sweatshirts," she said.

Students also suggested that school districts allow funding for more "smart boards," allowing work to be done on a screen in front of the class, and eliminating the need for some textbooks and papers.

According to student research, accelerating slowly in a vehicle, rather than "punching it," can result in five times less carbon emissions. Replacing household light bulbs with fluorescent bulbs results in greater longevity and less energy draw.

Students also presented the idea of a "walking pool," to help turn walking to school into a social event. They also suggested replacing gas-powered lawn mowers with the old-fashioned push mowers.

"It's great to see the kids get involved. They really understand that little things every day can help," said Sloan.

tdeans@sltrib.com

* To view students' lists of ideas to reduce the impact of global warming, visit www.google .com/educators/globalwarming results.html