Since 3 years we have been driving a hybrid car, mainly out of principle but also since it cuts down on our gas expenses. We are monitoring the gas consumption regularly, it is about 43 miles to the gallon, sometimes down to 49 or 50. The only disadvantage is that the trunk is a bit smaller than that of a non-hybrid model (Honda Civic). Also there is a recommended load limitation. Ours was the third of this model sold in town.
A year ago we had five solar panels installed on our roof, and last fall we participated in the "solar tour" whereby people and groups came to visit and hear about the procedures, cost and benefits of our solar power system. Thus far we have produced over 900 kWH; the daytime excess going into the grid and the electricity company (PSE), which is reflected in a reduction in our electricity bill at the end of the month. The State paid us $ 60 thus far as a first incentive; PSE earlier gave us a rebate, and the IRS allowed us to make a tax deduction. But it is mainly the principle of doing something to counter global warming, which motivated us to have the solar panels installed. Our house was among the first private homes in town with solar panels on the roof. If most houses which are not shaded by trees, and have a South-facing roof, would install solar panels, our city would truly gain recognition of being a "green" city.
We have installed three Crystalite Tubular Skyliights which provide a considerable amount of light in the kitchen, corridor and study during daytime, to such an extent that no electric light is needed in those areas during daytime.
We turn the heating down at night, wear sweaters indoors in the winter and use the dishwasher only when we have had guests for dinner.
Our next project will be to install higher quality heat-conserving windows.
We try to do our share, mindful of the future of our grandchildren, and the millions in heavily populated delta areas such as Bangladesh, the Nile Delta, and in the low elevation Pacific and Indian Ocean Islands, who will have to be evaciuated in about 70 years if global warming continues to increase at the present rate. Mindful also of the millions who will be affected by more frequent droughts and floods in Africa, and by water shortages in large parts of Asia due to the melting of the glaciers in the Himalaya mountain range. Efforts to slow down, and possibly reverse, global warming are a moral imperative. I believe that those who deny the urgency, refuse to make policy decisions or deliberately undermine efforts made against global warming, do not care about the well-being of their fellow human beings in our "global village".
