Trading in the SUV, sweaters and fans, minimizing vacations
On October 13, 2008 - 23:33
In order to combat changing climate, and the current state of the economy, we have traded in our SUV and bought a smaller, yet still spacious car, that is exceptionally more fuel efficient than our old car. We have long commutes to work, so we feel are saving the air and the money in our wallets, since carpooling isn't practical. In addition, we make sure to keep our older compact car running smoothly to prevent any unwanted emissions from polluting the air.
At home, we have not switched light bulbs but we do use electricity only when we need it most (early am and evenings). We run the heat and AC only when completely necessary, relying on sweater and fans instead. We have our oil burning furnace (hot water heater) serviced once a year to clean out any residue that could pollute the air inside and outside the home.
Our vacations have slowed to a minimum, as the price of gas and airline tickets have skyrocketed, forcing us to take more local vacations, which in turn is a benefit for the environment as we, and others, do not drive as far to get where we are going. It almost seems a hidden blessing (for nature) that these prices have increased so dramatically, as it will have the effect of good on the environment. Less and less people can afford to go on vacations, and therefore the cars and planes spend less time burning fossil fuels.
"I don't like a President in a sweater"
This reminds me of President Carter's infamous fireside chats on energy policy, wearing the cardigan sweater. His energy policy was loudly criticized for making conservation the cornerstone ("turn down the thermostat, put on a sweater"), although there were many other points to it, including environmental protection, continued economic growth, and equity. (Here is the full text of his April 1977 speech.) What would the world be like had we implemented this policy? In worse shape, maybe poorer, but with no looming threat of climate change? Time magazine has a good review of his first fireside chat in February 1977, "Warm Words from Jimmy Cardigan", which includes this reaction: Said one Wall Street executive: "I don't like a President in a sweater."