A few weeks ago I posted a poll asking what people would be willing to sacrifice in their everyday lives to reduce Hawaii’s oil consumption. The point I was trying to make was that oil is a limited resource, one that’s used more often than people realize. And with catastrophes like the Exxon Valdez spill and the Deepwater Horizon tragedy, our reliance on fossil fuels is primarily touted as an environmental issue when it’s actually much larger than that.
Oil – A Non-Renewable Resource
It’s true – we won’t run out any time soon. Combining new extraction methods with additional drilling, mining and refining sites is projected to fulfill the increased demands of developing nations and new technologies. However, this won’t change the fact that what’s in the ground is what we have left. Whether we open up new areas for drilling or not is a moot point because eventually, it will all be gone. We need to start lowering our dependence on it now for the sake of future generations.
Other Factors
In addition to being a non-renewable resource, out of the countries with the top 10 largest proven oil reserves, most have vacillating governments. This may not resonate with those of us who buy at the neighborhood pump, but larger consumers recognize this as a possible disruption in the supply chain.
Greener Pastures
The U.S. Navy has announced plans to shift 50% of their energy needs to non-fossil fuel sources within the next 10 years. According to Navy Secretary Ray Mabus – “America and the Navy rely too much on fossil fuels. It makes the military, in this case our Navy and Marine Corps, far too vulnerable to some sort of disruption.” They’re looking to diversify and not limiting their options. Possibilities include algae based jet fuel and sugar based biofuel grown on Maui.
Baby Steps
Change takes time and there’s inevitably going to be a period of transition. It’s unrealistic to think that we’re going to stop filling up at the pump tomorrow. So what can we do in the meantime to make things better? The best answer – use less. 97% of those who responded to the poll indicated they’d be willing to find ways to use less. Personally, I carpool or take the bus 3-4 days a week – 37% said they’d join me. I carry reusable bags in my purse and my car – 61% would support changing how our community uses and distributes disposable plastic bags. And an overwhelming 83% of respondents recognize Hawaii’s potential to become the premier ground for researching and developing alternate sources of energy.
But What Do I Do At The Pump??
Who should I be buying my gas from? Is there one oil company in particular that’s more sustainable than the rest? People ask me these questions on a regular basis and I’ve been referring them to Rachel Joy. She has some good thoughts on the matter.
Do you guys know of any other “sustainable” oil companies? Are there sacrifices you would be willing to make in your everyday lives that I didn’t touch on in my poll or my Blog? I would love to hear any feedback you may have – good or bad. Feel free to contact me at shines@honbue.com or 441-4452.