Turn off the engine

Yesterday, Recycla was out and about around town when she found her driving route blocked by a train. There were about a half dozen car in front of her, as well as cars stopped behind stretching as far as the eye could see.

Since Recycla knew that she would be sitting there for a while, she rolled down her car windows to let in some air and then turned off the engine.  However, many of the cars around Recycla’s were obviously still running as their owners idled and waited for the train to go by.

The minutes passed.  First five, then ten.  Finally after 15 minutes, the train was gone and traffic could move again.  During that time, Recycla counted at least a half dozen cars that were idling the entire time.

What a huge waste of gas!  Recycle felt sick as she contemplated not only the fuel that was used, but also the CO2 that was pumped into the atmosphere.  The owners of those cars were clearly not aware of the real cost of gas or thinking about how their actions impacted Planet Earth.

As the crisis in the Gulf continues and millions of gallons of oil continue to spew into the water, people need to be aware of their gas use and learn to be more economical.  Turning off the engine at railroad crossings is a very good first start.  Recycla recognizes that it’s summer and that people can die in extreme heat; however, it was only 80 degrees yesterday morning when she was stuck in traffic.  While it might not seem like one or two or a handful of cars can make a difference, they all can.  Every action, no matter how small, is important.

Tell the Eco Women:  Has the Gulf oil disaster caused you to make any changes with your gas consumption this summer?