This week we have a rather comprehensive array of helpful resources to feature.  From greening the family, to the bird's eye view on all things carbon trading.  Here we go...

First from Worldwatch comes The State of the World 2009. What must we do in the 21st century—especially in 2009 and the years just following—to make a future possible, and to head off the kind of climate catastrophe that many scientists now see as likely?  This question inspires the theme of the Worldwatch Institute's State of the World 2009 report: how climate change will play out over the coming century, and what steps we most urgently need to take now.  The year 2009 will be pivotal for the Earth's climate. Scientists have warned that we have only a few years to reverse the rise in greenhouse gas emissions and help avoid abrupt and catastrophic climate change. The world community has agreed to negotiate a new climate agreement in Copenhagen in December 2009. Early that same year, Barack Obama will be sworn in as the 44th U.S. President. The United States, one of the world's largest producers of greenhouse gases, will have its best chance to provide global leadership by passing national climate legislation and constructively engaging with the international community to forge a new consensus on halting emissions.

As part of the equation comes carbon markets and offset programmes.   If you've been wanting a macro picture on the subject, the exhaustive SEI Review of Offset Programs: Trading Systems, Funds, Protocols, Standards and Retailers is a perfect background document.  The goal of this review is to provide an up-to-date analysis and synthesis of the most influential offset programs and activities.  It reflects on lessons learned to inform participants and designers of current and future offset programs. The intention is to periodically update this review to stay abreast of ongoing developments, and to develop a website portal to make this information more accessible.

And finally, if you're looking to take practical action closer to home, we'd like to recommend the Green and Save Family Guide to Going Green.  Alongside their Return on Investment Table, you get a comprehensive look at actions and how they will save money in the household.  The resources are created for the US market, but indicative of savings in other markets as well.  The big picture is rather amazing: take action on things like thermostats and water saving to the tune of US$69,590 up front, and enjoy a savings over 20 years of a whopping US$182,170-- that's an 11.8% return just for being smart around the house.