Advancing technology is most likely the main solution
as I don't see folks giving up things like their
automobiles. Even most folks in the third world
seem to aspire to drive. Only a smaller number of people,
like me, prefer car free living. This means the main solutions
to climate change are things like solar energy, hydrogen
fuel and so forth. Slowing down the rat race is part of the
solution, but I'll admit that technology is most likely the main
answer.
Still, I'm
a fan of reducing consumption. Slowing down and
most importantly curbing population growth. Progressive
sexual politics, such as gay rights and feminism play an
important role in a sustainable future related to population
growth.
Reducing consumption is an important factor as well;
especially as we wait for new technologies to develop. Quality
of life needs to be the bottom line. It includes
things like more time for family and community. For instance,
a shorter workweek could be seen as a step forward by allowing
parents to have more time with their kids. People would
benefit with more time for volunteering and community; basically
less frazzled and healthier lives.
I think both technology and quality
of life solutions can work together for a better future.
In technology we have gone from the high space and energy
requirements of vacuum tubes to less consumptive transistors.
Why can't our cultural life and economics do this as well?
Sunset along South Bay
Trail, Bellingham.
My card from around 1990.
Ad space.
Seattle Roofing
