We love the planet. We (?) love clean oceans, clear skies, and no litter on the streets as we drive to work. But a recent conversation woke me up to the reality of the life that I live. I was conversing with an acquaintance recently, when the topic of fossil fuels, specifically oil and natural gas came up. At one point she said, “All we use oil for anyway is cars! If we all drove electric cars we would have no need for oil.” I waited to see if she was joking, only to realize she was dead serious. I knew that there was definitely more that we used oil for, so I started doing some research.
Even I myself was amazed to find what all used some form of oil or natural gas. Everything from medicine to reusable grocery bags to cell phones to credit cards, all these and more use some form of hydrocarbons. Further research showed me how much of the US’s energy alone comes from oil and natural gas, which allows for electricity and heating. I came to the conclusion that we NEED oil and natural gas if we are to live the same quality of life for the same costs and ease.
We see the Earth as a gift. Whatever supreme being (or the lack thereof) that you may believe in, there cannot be a doubt that this planet, spaced a perfect distance from the Sun, capable of water in all three states of matter, with such diversity of life, is something we need to protect. We promote recycling, not living above your means, and moderation. So, let’s get real.