Commentaries

Conserving fuel is a political and patriotic act
 August 14, 2006

 For me the question about conserving energy isn't so much about preserving our environment although I fully recognize the need to do that.

It's more about saving the lives (civilian and military, friend and foe) that will be lost in future wars in the Middle East. Until the U.S. no longer needs to import oil from politically unstable parts of the world, we can expect new wars as the U.S. uses military force to ensure that these oil fields and oil sea lanes remain open. So, for me, driving my car at or below the speed limit, purchasing a hybrid vehicle, keeping my AC down or off in the summer, and cutting down on unnecessary shopping trips are patriotic, political acts. The more gas I use the more need for foreign oil and the more likely we will send troops to another Middle East country in the future. And more death and destruction will follow.

Every time I see a gas-guzzling pickup or SUV whiz past me on the highway (particularly those with American flag stickers) I shake my head in dismay, thinking they know not what they do. But I understand that it will take time before others will see conserving fuel as a political and patriotic act. And what about you, dear reader, what about you?

David Brigham
Shoreview, MN
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