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E-mail a friendYOUNG VOICES
When $4 Gas Comes Back
By now, many of us have seen the remarkable decrease in the price of gas lately in our neighborhoods. Just months ago we were talking about energy efficiency, hybrid cars and a host of other issues concerning the popular phrase of "our foreign dependence on oil."
I can even remember when news organizations spent air time each week dedicated to talking about consumers' pain at the pump and tips we could use to get better mileage out of our cars.
For now, it seems we've returned to our old ways, buying gas-guzzling vehicles and throwing caution to the wind. These past few weeks have definitely been kind to drivers, but I don't think it's going to last too long.
Many sources indicate however that the $4 gas price is on its way back. While many cringe at the idea, some are trying to figure out how to ensure when, (not if) $4 gas returns to the pumps, and it helps Americans more than it hurts them.
Now, given the fact that we're all hurting due to this global economic recession, I don't think we'll see high gas prices immediately. Recent news reports stated that by the start of the year, with sales slumping dramatically, many stores are going to have to close. This means less money in consumer's pockets, which may ultimately mean less disposable income and driving ability.
So while the return to $4 gas might not be on its way back immediately, the real question is what do we do once it begins to settle its way back into the marketplace?
Greg Simon, a Health and Human Services transition team member for President-elect Obama, spoke to a group of students at American University about that very issue. Among other topics, he posed questions on how to communicate the importance of the issue effectively, the pros and cons of such a proposal, all while contemplating how to develop feasible policy initiatives.
The discussion was candid, honest and stimulated robust thought along with practical discussion. Typically, when I have a busy day ahead of me, I don't have much time for anything else, but this topic made me stop and watch. I'm glad I did.
The bottom line of the discussion was clear: if we don't prepare for $4 gasoline as things get better, we leave ourselves more vulnerable to issues like global warming and foreign energy dependence.
The challenge is presenting an argument that actually makes sense and gets the American people to in fact “buy in” to the idea. Right now, I‘m not completely sold on the idea, but I'm willing to start listening. How about you?
Will Americans return to more environmentally conscious behavior when $4 gas returns?