[artplumber]

Originally posted by turbo6bar
Where were these threads when oil was under $30/barrel 5-7 years ago? Energy independence was as much off the government's agenda as it was off our minds.

I dont think that's quite accurate. There have always been an attempt to reduce fossil fuels and become more energy independent. Remember that GM spent billions on the electric car (admittedly more for zero emissions than for energy indepence) and that this country once led the world in nuclear powerplant tech. But the nuclear option was drowned out by a alarmist enviromentalists even as they protested against new powerplants or use of domestic coal etc.

The amount of oil consumed by the US as a percentage of the world, is large. 23%, I believe. Alternative energy helps us cut that percentage, but we also need to push the conservation side, as well. The ever-growing 3800 SF McMansions aren't the step in the right direction.

Americans will never learn to become anything other than consumers until consuming becomes painful. The people idolized by this country are glorified simply because of their consumption (look at how many media shows are about celebrity excess beginning w/Robin Leach) eg/ whoever and their $3 million birthday party. Or just live in Kali for a while