Time to Cut the Knot

Ideally, the US would possess its own energy sources, thus ensuring energy independence and stability. Unfortunately, a dependence on fossil fuels leads to drilling around pristine beaches and using technologies that exacerbate global warming. During a presidential- election year, politicians are less willing to take a firm stance on environmental protection – and pursue any short-term measures to procure cheap fuel. The US and other nations would benefit from taking a long-term view and setting priorities that decrease the rift between the energy-security and environmental-protection camps. The two goals – energy security and environmental protection – are linked, and the US will benefit if its citizens become less extravagant and learn to live within their means. Current technologies do not encourage environmental protection, energy independence or long-term security. – YaleGlobal