Suddenly the words “carbon footprints” and “carbon credits” are commonplace in this age of worry over global warming. Political candidates, rock bands and regular folks are snapping up carbon credits to offset the greenhouse gases spewed in travel and consumption. Even PG&E is giving us a chance to offset our carbon each month. But what exactly does it mean—and can it really make a difference?

Skunks sneaking in the cat doors? Raccoons running amok? Rats in the tot parks? Officials say there are one family of raccoons and one family of skunks for every block in Berkeley. Our reporter talks to homeowners, wildlife experts and even local politicians about what to do, if anything.

In Europe, car sharing has been popular since the early 1970s. Now American companies are catching on: Some city dwellers want access to a car, but not the hassle of owning and maintaining one. In the Bay Area, three companies offer different packages and benefits, but each offers the convenience of a car when you need it, with a full tank of gas and a parking space.