By Warren Leon
Virtually all Americans think our country would be better off
if we used less imported oil. We would be less dependent on countries
in volatile parts of the world, especially the Mideast. We would
not be as vulnerable to economic dislocations from sharp oil price
hikes. Our balance of trade would not be nearly as unfavorable.
Let's Run the Numbers
The United States still gets 42% of its oil from domestic sources.
But over time, the amount of oil we produce will inevitably decrease,
because only 2-3% of the world’s oil reserves lie in US territory.
The vast majority are in the Mideast. Even if we were to drill for
oil in environmentally sensitive areas, such as the Arctic National
Wildlife Refuge, it would not change the basic fact that our country
owns only a small share of the world’s remaining oil.
There is also no getting around the fact that we use a disproportionate
share of that oil. Even though our country has less than 5% of the
world’s population, we consume about 26% of the world’s
oil. Not only does this create resentment in other countries, but
it undermines our national security.
Strong public demand for hybrids and alternatively fueled vehicles
can send a powerful message to carmakers and the government that
a significant share of the public wants vehicles that reduce oil
dependence. This would prompt carmakers to produce more such vehicles.
We therefore urge you to let auto dealers in your community know
that you are interested in "green" cars. To get the word
out more broadly, tell your friends and neighbors about the exciting
cars you see at the Tour de Sol.
More...
Although our electricity system uses little oil, there are ways
in which it could be made much safer, healthier, and secure. Renewable
energy sources, such as wind, solar, and biomass (plant matter),
can provide us with clean, safe, domestically produced energy. They
can create local jobs, reduce air pollution, and lower the risks
of global warming. We should speed the development of renewable
energy for electricity. Some renewable energy facilities, especially
wind farms, are already cost competitive with most conventional
fossil-fuel power plants. By developing a variety of renewable energy
resources, we can avoid becoming too dependent on any one fuel.
When it comes to energy, it makes sense to avoid putting all of
our eggs in one basket.
One of the best—and easiest—ways to reduce environmental
damage and increase the diversity of our nation’s energy sources
is to purchase "green" electricity when and where it is
available.
Green electricity is electricity that comes from clean, sustainable
energy sources such as wind, solar, and biomass (plant matter).
By agreeing to purchase green electricity for your home or business,
you will add a certain amount of clean energy to your electricity
pool—the electrons that are distributed through the wires
connected to your building. Fewer fossil fuels will be used to meet
your pool’s energy needs. Fewer pollutants and global warming
gases will enter the atmosphere. You will also help build the renewable
energy industry.
Green electricity often costs a little more, but just a few dollars
a month is a small price to pay for the benefits of a cleaner, more
diverse electricity system. Few other such small investments have
such a large positive environmental impact.
Remember that the cleanest energy is the energy you do not use.
Energy conservation and energy-efficiency measures—everything
from buying a highly efficient appliance to using compact fluorescent
lightbulbs to installing low-flow showerheads—can yield a
large reduction in your overall environmental impact.
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