Hall 1

Camren Hall
Mrs. Grimaldi
HELA 10
7 May 2015
Changing to Greener Alternatives
Every day, it is evident how many resources we consume for transportation, production,
or even luxury by just taking a look outside. The societys paradigm is a fast-moving, productive,
and efficient workforce that allows us to be one of the most productive nations in the world but
at what cost? Alongside the United States, China, Russia, Japan and India account for 54% of the
worlds total carbon dioxide emissions (Rheault). The human race is on a fast-track for the
decline of its sustainability as a whole, and a call for change is necessary. The United States can
lead this initiative by making changes to resource dependency, transportation methods, and daily
habits. By being a proponent of these ideas, other nations will follow, and consequently, create a
revolution for the better.
One of the most controversial topics in the U.S. in regards to the environment is its
utilization of fuels and resources. It is imperative to understand that oil is in a finite amount, and
we are consuming it at an alarming rate. In a USA Today paper, this is addressed saying,
Gasoline is scarce and expensive and likely only to become more so (Webber). Oil is used
primarily for its ability to produce energy from its combustion, which is seen in large industries,
and more heavily, transportation. Alternative forms of energy, such as hydrogen fuel cells, can be
used much more efficiently to improve environmental habits. One might argue this will eliminate
jobs in the oil industry, however, this massive switch requires a reconstruction of infrastructure to

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allow for alternative fuels. This plan will create many new jobs, and in return, reduce the
environmental footprint immensely and boost the economy. The place to begin with alternative
fuels is everyday methods of transportation.

The major

problem with environmental damages and harmful emissions can be attributed directly to daily
transportation. The United States carbon dioxide emissions are increasing exponentially, which
is a direct result of vehicle emissions. The United States Department of Energy puts a number to
the figure, citing that transportation accounts for 67% of all U.S. oil consumption (Energy
Savers). To have two-thirds of the entire oil usage for the country consumed by transportation is
a serious problem that threatens the environment and sustainability of the nation. In Singapore, a
fraction of their tax dollars go to the implementation of a transit system, which handles 4
million rides per day, compared with 3 million daily private auto trips (Webber). This is an
incredible plan that allows for the conservation of resources and can be provided with an easy
reallocation of tax dollars, which would not hurt the economy or the citizens, but rather provide
them with a huge boost. These daily changes and habits must be made to ensure the human races
sustainability as a whole.

The average U.S.

family spends almost two-thousand dollars each year on home utility bills, most of which is
completely wasted (Energy Savers). This wasted energy could be saved and redistributed in
many different ways, but is instead calling for more energy at the detriment of the environment.
The preservation of the environment starts with the individual, and can be made in many
different and easy ways. Some of these ways can be turning off electronics when not in use,
controlling the thermostat, lowering the temperature on the water heater, and using Energy Star
appliances to conserve energy (Energy Savers). These easy and effective changes in habits
benefit not only the environment, but the individual themselves. Money is saved every day from

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being smart with conserving energy, and it is vital to begin now.

The

United States wastes a large amount of resources and energy each year, resulting in the damage
of the environment. Changes can be made very easily, allowing for the preservation of the
environment at a benefit to everyone and creating change internationally. Through many
different ways, The United States can lead this initiative by making changes to its resource
dependency, transportation methods, and daily habits. A change is necessary, and it needs to start
now.