Take Charge: Think Before Drilling
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This week in Dirty Energy:
The choice of Gov. Sarah Palin as the Republican vice presidential nominee inevitably leads to discussions about Alaska. However, moose or hockey shouldn't be the focus of our conversations: it's necessary to talk about the history of the debate regarding oil drilling in a currently protected area, the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR).
The U.S. House of Representatives voted in the summer of 2001 to support opening ANWR to drilling, and the issue has persisted ever since. In a significant maneuver, the Senate added its support in 2005.
However, more research into the potential energy benefits and increased awareness of the undeniable environmental effects are definitely needed. A recent New York Times op-ed piece points out that this extra oil is local; the global costs of crude oil may be affected by as little as 1.3 percent, even if the supposed 7 billion barrels can be successfully extracted.
News such as this hasn't interrupted the political rhetoric regarding ANWR and drilling. President Bush called on Congress this past April to deal with the rising energy costs by opening ANWR. This summer, the House continued a steady debate that can be generalized as Republicans supporting drilling in ANWR and Democrats not supporting drilling in new areas, at least until current sources are fully exploited.
The environmental cleanup and development costs could amount to up to $400 billion. Those are just a part of the "financial" impact to consider: it is truly hard to put a price on the multitude of wildlife, including polar bears and millions of migrating birds, and the intangible qualities of a still remaining natural landscape. The debate clearly isn't over, so now it's time to become educated about ANWR and participate in a decision that will ultimately impact the Alaskan environment.
In Our Community:
Take Charge recently kicked off its fall workshop series on saving money and energy in your home with Mike Tillou giving an overview of home energy use. More than 15 people came and heard about home appliances, space heaters, thermostats, and more. Be sure to check out the interactive home from the EPA/Doe's Energy Star Web site and our second workshop!
Take Charge Insulation and Heating Workshop: Thursday, Oct. 2, 6:30 p.m.
This event will feature Bruce Harley, technical director for Conservation Services Group, author and home-energy expert, who will explain the importance of insulating your home. He will examine the trouble spots where energy is lost and discuss ways to improve home insulation. Held at the North Adams Public Library, third floor. Contact Madeline with questions.
Northern Berkshire Community Coalition Forum: 'Food & Fuel': Friday, Oct. 10, 10 to noon
Come to the North Adams First Baptist Church on Eagle Street to discuss upcoming winter issues regarding fuel costs and the choices they will affect in the community. All are welcome; contact the NBCC office with questions at 663-7588.
2008 Green Buildings Open House Tour: Saturday, Oc. 4, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
This event is part of the American Solar Energy Society's National Solar Tour. The Berkshire portion is coordinated by the Center for Ecological Technology. Check out technologies from solar to geothermal. Hours vary and the properties are spread out. Full schedule of events and booklet available here, or contact Nancy Nylen with questions.
Thoreau Program in Green Design at Williams College: Wednesday, Oct. 1, 4:15 p.m.
Sponsored by the Center for Environmental Studies and the Zilkha Center for Environmental Initiatives, Tom Perry, director of engineering services at Shawmut Design and Construction, and Jason Moran, project manager at Williams College, will be holding a workshop titled "Sustainable Construction and LEED Certification." This event will be located in Griffin Hall, Room 7; a campus map can be accessed here.
