8 Ways to Declare Your Energy Independence

By: Barb Miller
Submitted: 2008-08-19 17:25:31
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The summer months are upon us. For most American families this means family vacations, summer sports leagues and barbeques in the back yard are in full swing. However, with high gas prices, many families are being forced to cut back on some of these activities. In fact, the latest trend is “staycations,” or vacations taken in your hometown or nearby. There is relief on the horizon though, if Americans are willing to fight for it!

Did you know America's current domestic gasoline production is enough to supply the country’s gasoline needs for 149 days? That number increases to 186 days if Americans increase the use of biofuels and practice simple conservation strategies. Exactly how many days is 186 days? January 1, 2009 to July 4, 2009, that’s half of the year! As America's families pinch their pennies to enjoy their summers, we are issuing a call for unity in the fight to gain our Energy Independence.

First, let’s talk about renewable energy and bio-fuels. Last year, just seven percent of the U.S. energy supply was from clean and renewable domestic sources such as solar, hydroelectric, geothermal, biofuels and wind energy. Just seven percent? That doesn’t seem like much does it?

Now, what can you do to help? Next time you go to buy a car, truck or SUV, consider buying a hybrid or flex-fuel vehicle. You can also practice fuel conservation. Here are some suggestions:

  • Take your car in for regular engine tune ups.
  • Install new air and fuel filters.
  • If you car is renewable fuels compatible, use ethanol-blends like E85 whenever and wherever possible.
  • Drive slower. It’s amazing how much fuel you can save just buy slowing down a little.
  • Consider starting a carpool at work. Fewer cars on the road to fight in traffic!
  • Consolidate trips. Before heading out for your weekly errands, plan out your trip so you can hit as many places as possible in an efficient manner.
  • Use mass transportation if it’s available. If your house and work are close to a public transit line such as a bus or subway, consider buying a monthly pass.
  • Walk or ride a bike for short trips. Instead of driving four blocks to the grocery store just to get a few things on a nice day, take a walk.

Add it all up, and our country could fuel itself from January 1, 2009, until July 4, 2009 — more than half the year. With all this talk about dependence on foreign oil, isn’t it nice to know that we could potentially fuel our own country for seven months! And with advancements and current research in the renewable fuels arena that number could expand much further. Want to do you part in fighting foreign oil? Sign the online petition in support of declaring our Energy Independence today.

Barb Miller is Marketing Director for the Ethanol Promotion and Information Council. The organization provides information and access to resources for the Ethanol and biofuels industries.

Article source: Expert Articles

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