As gasoline prices continue to spike towards $5 a gallon in Lemon Grove, we must realize the need to change some habits and confront the reality of using alternative energy sources. It is time to leave behind the addictive treadmill of dependency on fossil fuels.
Does it appear to you that the oil industry has created a pricing cycle intended to maximize their profits? Maybe it’s just me, but it seems that each time the cost of a gallon of gas rises enough to cause a public outcry, it drops back down again. The catch is that the price never quite gets back to its previous lowest level.
I am tired of playing a game we can never win. The days of unlimited cheap gas are over, and we need to face facts. Instead of waiting for the government to do something about the problem, maybe we can do something about it ourselves.
Public transportation is the No. 1 choice to avoid paying high gas prices. You will also reduce your ecological footprint. If you have not considered using the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System, the time has arrived to at least check out your options. Unfortunately, mass transit does not work every day for the majority of people—we need our cars.
Still, there are a variety of other ways to reduce the amount of gas we burn each week. Carpooling is another excellent idea, and here is a good local source to get you started.
Our diving habits contribute greatly to gas usage. Two words to save fuel: slow and easy. The Europeans have been paying more $6 per gallon for years, and have learned to curb their driving styles. They start out slower from a stop, and take their foot off the gas instead of excessively using the brakes. Yes, monster truck that races from one red light to the next on Broadway, I’m talking about you. Lighten up a little, and actually drive the speed limit—you could start saving a bundle at the gas pump.
For local trips, an alternative transportation method such as a motor scooter or cool electric bike will allow you to leave the car at home. Trust me, I will not think anything less of you as you quietly putt-putt past my car while I’m stuck in traffic.
Another way in Lemon Grove to save at the pump is to shop local. The city with the best climate on Earth also boasts great shopping opportunities. Now that we are paying 20 percent more for gas than we were just a year ago, it makes real sense to consult the Patch business directory to see if what you need is available locally. Whether you are looking for a new or some bargain , you can find it right here in the Grove.
A healthy choice is using your feet. If possible, try walking to the market. You don’t have to worry about overbuying because you can only carry so much, and you get your exercise. Why, you may not even need to drive to the gym that day.
Urban biking is a great way to travel. This is a zero-polluting mode of transportation that deserves more attention. By using a bike, you can even take a weekend camping trip without buying a drop of gasoline. Some of the best bicycle camping around is right here in San Diego County.
One car at a time, we can make a difference. I think future generations deserve to inherit more than our greenhouse emissions.
