the air

Source: alexandralee

These days the environment is a growing concern among Americans. As the average national gas price soars past the $4.20 mark, the average American is starting to reevaluate vacations, commutes, car purchases, groceries, and much more. Former Vice President Al Gore has committed himself to pursuing issues concerning the environment and encouraging everyone to do their part to assist the environment. However, both political parties have stayed relatively neutral when it comes to environmental concerns. Neither Barack Obama nor Hillary Clinton have outlined a detailed plan that either eases the rising oil prices or reduces/eliminates American dependence on foreign oil. So what exactly are we to do?

I read an article today that outlines how expensive gas price (namely $8 a gallon) can be good for the American economy. The author outlines eight specific reasons that support his main idea:

1. RIP for the internal-combustion engine
2. Economic stimulus
3. Wither the Middle East’s clout
4. Deflating oil potentates
5. Mass-transit development
6. An antidote to sprawl
7. Restoration of financial discipline
8. Easing global tensions

Surprisingly, the author does a great job of procuring valid consequences if the gas price increases to nearly ten bucks. However, my issue with this article is the fact that the author assumes that most people, including myself, would simply live near urban centers and let go of our suburban upbringings.

I enjoy the city of Chicago and I know it has more activities year round than my own suburban community. However, if I had a family, I would most definitely live in a suburban setting because it would allow my family to live somewhat quietly, live in a nice single-family home, and near other kids in a good neighborhood. I don’t have to worry about pimps and gangs invading my streets. As a single adult, I would live in the city of Chicago in a heartbeat. However, as a family man, I would live in a suburban community with no doubts in my mind.

The author also talks about how the high prices would reduce our dependency on Middle-Eastern oil and spur innovation in alternative and renewable energy sources. In case anyone forgot, the past eight years have seen the emphasis in U.S. policy shift from domestic to foreign issues. Moreover, my personal opinion is that the war in Iraq was a screen for growing Republican interest in securing oil fields for American companies. To this day, not one Republican or Democrat has shown interest in pursuing alternative energy. In order to reduce our dependency on foreign oil, we must have a strong alternative.

Most people talk about hybrid vehicles or ethanol, yet they do not even consider completely eliminating oil. Hybrid vehicles STILL require oil and ethanol production requires substantial amount of oil. Why not consider alternative technologies which do not require as much oil such as wind power, hydrogen fuel cells, nuclear power, etc.?

Then again, we come back to the argument that public transportation is not well developed. The reason is because most people drive everywhere. Innovation needs to start prior to its use, not after. If companies and local governments started to innovate public transportation, we would see increased usage of those facilities once gas prices started to rise. Public transportation needs to be convenient for as many people as possible, otherwise, no one will use it.

My argument has always been that if gas prices rise to an absurd level, consumers will undoubtedly change their habits. However, the American dream has always included tokens such as cars, homes, and a comfortable lifestyle. That is our culture and I don’t think that will change. Maybe in the far future, it may. But for now, our culture is going to be one that is filled with cars and people driving them. Alternative fuel needs to be researched and implemented NOW so that all of us can then reduce our dependency on foreign oil.

Article source: Market Watch

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