In March 2007, a Stanford University/ABC News/TIME Magazine study exposed that 85 percent of the nation believed global warming was an actual phenomenon.

Since then, Hollywood crowned Al Gore’s documentary “An Inconvenient Truth” with top honors. Pop bands like Black Eyed Peas and the Red Hot Chili Peppers have agreed to join the groundbreaking Live Earth concert this summer. Studies have demonstrated a literal melting of large amounts of polar bear habitat. And individual states, like California, have undertaken massive efforts to overhaul the way human beings use energy and affect the environment.

Obviously, global warming remains on the minds of Americans and the world, resulting in culture clashes, economic sacrifices and global collaboration to find solutions.

The concept of global warming isn’t new. Almost everyone agrees it occurs, but the national debate is centered on whether or not human behavior contributes to climate change, with our pollution-emitting cars and companies, deforestation, and even meat consumption.

Should government’s step in and establish company regulations, gas mileage standards and recycling rules? Should humans limit their economic progress in order to preserve green spaces?

According to a recent New York Times/CBS News poll , 85 percent of Americans simply believing in global warming seems like child’s play. Now, over 75 percent of the nation believe some action is needed to combat the effects of global warming, with 49 percent of Americans saying global warming is having an immediate impact on the environment.

Currently, politicians in Washington are focusing on the War in Iraq, budget deficits and the current political corruption scandal du jour. However, with the race to White House escalating and corporations vying to satisfy consumers, decision makers in America are finally responding seriously to national concerns over global warming.

In Nevada, a case study of one state’s attempt to find alternative energy sources demonstrates the conflict between federal and state solutions to global warming. Geothermal energy is swiftly gaining favorability, but a confrontation with the Bush administration has left much to hope for.

Another story based in the Sierras, “The Heat is On in Nevada” raises concerns about the possibility of a devastating 50-year drought that could be in store for the Silver State due to global warming.

A geographer, state park director, professional recycler, Nevada regent and real estate worker also offer their unique perspectives in a collection of interviews about the state of global warming in the state, nation, and American lifestyles.

Finally, see how the League of Conservation Voters ranked the various presidential candidates based on their positions on global warming.