I've been trying to decide if I should upgrade from my '92 civic, which gets 30 mpg. Years ago one of the climate scientists at Berkeley National Lab, where I work, said over 60% of the carbon footprint of an automobile is in it's initial manufacture. Other climate scientists argued over the exact number, however the consensus amongst the climate scientists was the carbon footprint of the initial manufacturing is very significant making the 2009's Cash for Clunker's, decidedly negative for the environment, and purely stimulus to the auto industry. Based on this, I have been feeling carbon virtuous by driving my older, fuel efficient vehicle, rather than buying a prius, or other hybrid/electric vehicle. I recently read an article about electric vehicles, and how improvements in vehicle longevity, and improved batteries change this equation. Based on this more recent study, I could reduce my carbon footprint by purchasing a purely electric vehicle. I was thinking an electric motorcycle with a side car for my doggies, who could then wear fashionable Doggles, and striped scarves. :) It could also make putting solar panels on my house, economically feasible. (With my low electrical usage, I would currently lose money installing solar panels, with the panels dying before I break even. By increasing my electrical usage I could change the result of this equation.) Whether or not electric vehicles help the environment now, they are an important step in developing the technology to become carbon neutral. With consumers and the government putting money into the industry there is money and interrest in improving battery technology. Green energy sources require storage of energy, and developing energy storage technology is ultimately good for the environment.

Just let me know where the riots are and I'll be there! Our media also plays a role. With all the election coverage, near zero time is given to fair and valid elections. The fraud in the last two elections is outrageous, and near NOTHING is being done to prevent it this time. I know the international election monitoring folks will be here, so they can report to everyone outside the US, on how yet another election was stolen... And what the conservatives call our "liberal media" won't bother with it! Argh! It is so frustrating.