The continued destruction of the world’s ecosystems is an important issue that affects everyone. In the USA alone, over 300 million acres of forest have been lost from the arrival of the European settlers in the 16th century to the 19th century. Experts estimate about 23 million more acres of forest would disappear by 2050.

This phenomenon takes part in global warming, as there is less vegetation to take in carbon dioxide, which wraps the Earth’s atmosphere and locks heat in.

With the amount of forests that have been lost, what can one person do to stymie this ongoing environmental problem? iPhone owners can make use of these six green iPhone apps to help stop the constant clearing of forests around the world.

GoodGuide

This app lets users scan the bar codes of commercial products to see if they are healthy, and if they are made by socially and environmentally responsible companies through a ratings system.

Over 170,000 items are in its database, covering everything from packed hotdogs to shampoo and cleaning alcohol. Personalized lists can be created to remind users which items to buy so as to support eco-friendly companies, and which to avoid to show irresponsible businesses that they do not deserve patronage.

iRecycle

Once an item has fulfilled its use, this app provides a way to recycle it so it does not just add to the growing amount of trash polluting the Earth. News updates regarding green issues are also available in this app.

With over one million ways given to recycle, and with complete contact details for recycling centers and programs, there should be no excuse for users of this app to not limit their waste production.

greenMeter

Driving has become an essential act in today’s world, but most vehicles still contribute greatly to air pollution through carbon emission. Hunter Research and Technology, LLC have developed an app that can help drivers regulate their car usage.

Through its accelerometer and physics engine, the app can detect how efficient the driver is using the car in real time. It can be used for all generations of the iPhone and the iPod Touch, and it can be configured to match the specifications of various cars, fuels and weather conditions.

Green Outlet

Cutting costs at home can also cut carbon emissions through this electricity calculator. By inputting the length of time specific appliances are used in a day, Green Outlet will compute an entire month’s electricity bill for users, while also showing how big the place’s carbon footprint is.

If the carbon footprint goes over the limit in the US Government’s Guidelines, the app will notify the user and suggest other appliances that emit less carbon.

SOLARCHECKER

People can switch to alternate energy sources to help save the environment. Solar power is one of the more realistic options for the average citizen, but looking for the right location that can absorb plenty of sunlight can be troublesome.

Using the inherent technology of the iPhone, it can display how much solar radiation a certain place gets, how much of it a specific roof can use for energy, and by how much users can reduce their carbon footprints.

Green Genie

This is the most comprehensive green app, considered by Apple itself as an “app store essential”.

Containing information regarding environmentally friendly products, groups, projects, concepts and websites, this app is an educational tool all on its own. Users can also share their plans and ideas through the Green Genie Facebook page, connecting like-minded individuals to a network of people who care about the planet.

Saving the world is a massive undertaking, but it starts with one person deciding to do something about it. Using any of these iPhone apps is an important first step. And with everyone pitching in, hope can continue to glow, illuminating the world for generations to come.

Image Courtesy: mashable.com