Katrina was a monster hurricane whose fury and devastation has wreaked untold tragedy, havoc and misfortune upon millions of Gulf Coast residents. The ramifications of this natural event will have long term consequences for every facet of our national society – economic, social, political, cultural and most importantly the individuals and families who have had their lives tragically altered forever. Questions will be asked, investigations will be launched, scapegoats lambasted, and rear-ends covered. The chaotic aftermath will dominate the national media. Whatever becomes of this process and the issues to be studied – we must collectively accept the fact that global warming is not just an arguable threat but also a natural climatic event that is now upon us with the full force of a natural disaster. The irony of a hurricane fueled by global warming destroying oil refineries is a sign that changes need to be made.
It should be apparent in the National Energy Bill that was recently passed that our national leadership is unwilling and/or unable to solve the energy consumerism that is overwhelming our nation and increasing the threat of global warming, seriously impacting our gasoline and home heating fuel budgets, and shaking our national energy security. The responsibility is ours and always has been to make changes within our home, business, and lifestyle. Decisions to change that will stop global warming, stop our dependence on fossil fuels, stop being wasteful, and stop expecting others to solve problems that we have the power to correct ourselves. Perhaps energy conservation is an appropriate legacy and donation that can be made on behalf of all those whose lives have been devastated by Katrina. Here are some things that we all can do to help stop global warming:
- Reduce your home energy bill. The average house is responsible for more air pollution and carbon dioxide emissions than is the average car.
- Purchase and use energy efficient appliances, fixtures, and other home equipment and products. Buy those that display the Energy Star label.
- Insulate your home and make sure your heating and cooling systems are operating at maximum efficiency.
- Replace your incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs.
- Save on water use in your home. Use low-flow faucets in your showers and sinks. Repair all water leaks. Lower the temperature on your hot water tank.
- Reduce, reuse, and recycle. Buy products that feature reusable, recycled, or reduced packaging to save the energy required to manufacture new containers. Make recycling a way of life.
- Consider installing residential wind and photovoltaic systems on your home. Consider a solar hot water heater. Every home in America should become its own clean and renewable energy power plant.
- Purchase Green Power for your home’s electricity if available from your utility. Green power is electricity that is generated from renewable sources such as wind, solar, geothermal, and biomass.
- Drive a fuel-efficient vehicle. Consider transportation alternatives such as mass transit, car-pooling, and bicycling. When you do drive – keep your car tuned up and your tires properly inflated.
- Plant trees. Trees absorb carbon dioxide from the air.
- Encourage your utility to do its part and become a partner in cleaner, safer, and healthier energy production and use.
- Educate others. Demand increased tax credits and incentives for energy conservation activities.
The cumulative impact of our individual decisions can change the world and is a great way to honor those so devastated by Hurricane Katrina.
HOME HEATING COSTS TO HIT RECORD LEVELS THIS WINTER
The Energy information Administration’s short- term outlook projects major increases in costs for electricity, heating oil, propane, and natural gas. We can expect this winter to see +71% for natural gas, +17% for electricity, +31% for heating oil, and +40% for propane. These percentages are relative to last winter’s cost. This is very bad news for all consumers but especially those that are low-income.
AECP TO HOLD 6TH ANNUAL GREEN LIVING AND ENERGY EXPO
AECP will hold its 6th annual Green Living and Energy Expo at the Roanoke Civic Center on October 21 and 22, 2005. Mark your calendars and spread the word. The Expo is an opportunity to educate yourself and others about the importance of saving energy.
VSBN HOSTS SUSTAINABLE SUMMIT
The Virginia Sustainable Building Network (VSBN) is hosting its third Virginia’s Sustainable Future Summit at the Greater Richmond Convention Center on September 13-15, 2005. There will be exhibits and workshops on sustainable solutions for the environment, business, and communities. Check their website at www.vsf3.org.
ENERGY TIP
Emissions from automobiles is a leading contributor to global warming. Check these websites out on the Clean Cities program – www.eere.energy.gov/cleancities and www.fueleconomy.gov/ to learn more about alternative fuels and vehicle emissions.