According to the Department of Energy's National Energy Lab, hybrid cars on American highways have saved 5.5 million barrels of fuel in the past seven years. That sounds great . . . until you realize that light-duty vehicles use 8.5 million barrels in one day. In other words, all the effort poured into hybrids in this decade amounts to less than one-day's fuel consumption! What an incredible disappointment. It is going to take a lot of work to reduce our energy consumption, conserve our natural resources and stop global warming. I don't know if it is doable. We all want to do something about these problems, but we live in such a fast-paced world, it is difficult to accomplish all that needs to be accomplished in a day's work . . . much less save the world.
I love hiking, especially backpacking. Perhaps if we all adopted a backpacker's philosophy on a daily basis we could make a change. Less is better! Take only pictures, leave only footprints. Leave the area in better shape when you depart than it was when you arrived. Pack light. Eat healthy, nutritious, energy-producing food. Carry only the things that are necessary (plus maybe one or two small luxuries). Use only environmentally-friendly products . . . biodegradable soap, toilet tissue, containers, etc. Use these products in moderation. Take shorter showers. Filter your water rather than buying bottled water. Limit your wardrobe. Wear a pair of shoes until they are no longer wearable. Be prepared for any emergency. Work together. Conserve your energy. Find creative ways to prepare your meals. Combine ingredients in one pot to conserve fuel. Eat more nuts, fruits and vegetables. Only use your flashlight when it is absolutely necessary. Adjust to the darkness. Read. Books don't require batteries. Layer your clothing. Take off or add layers as the weather and the temperature change. Drive less. Walk more. Care about your surroundings. Enjoy nature and remote locations, while we still have them to enjoy.
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Song 103: Helter Shelter
Artist: The Beatles
Album: The Whtie Album
Year: 1968
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