10 Things I like about $4 gas

A recent article from Time Magazine lists ten things we can enjoy about higher gas prices. Here’s the list, but with my comments inserted.

1. Globalized Jobs Return Home

I think they’re right that labor will be in higher demand in the US than previous years, but with the rise in outsourcing non-manual labor jobs (i.e. customer service), this may balance itself out. I do like that more US jobs often equates to less overseas shipping.

2. Sprawl Stalls

I’m conflicted here. While city-living allows for use of public transportation and biking to work, living in the country gives a sense of gratitude for our earth. I think being closer to nature is the answer – whatever form that takes (country life with a garden full of produce and tele-commuting or a condo with a green roof and CSA share).

3. Four-Day Workweeks

Tele-commuting is great not just for saving fuel, but also for a more home-based life. On days when I don’t go into the office, I find I cook more, spend time with family, and use the car less (or not at all). Being at home gives me the luxury of choice over convenience (no more take-out!). Time Magazine mentions the four-day workweek as a company money saver as well – which it is as long as your energy consumption at home is less than your consumption at work.

4. Less Pollution

I look forward to the day I pass the gas station and rarely see someone fueling up.

5. More Frugality

We buy less and we find that we need less. Frugality also breeds innovation. Check out UPS’s pledge to only make right-hand turns in order to save fuel.

6. Fewer Traffic Deaths

Not only will higher gas prices force people to drive less, my hope is that people will begin to understand how to get the best gas mileage possible (hint: it doesn’t involve sharp turns and abrupt stops). Gadgets like the ScanGauge may become the mainstream.

7. Cheaper Insurance

I doubt many people have thought about this money saver as I bet the insurance companies aren’t too keen on having fewer people in the expensive brackets. Personally, I look forward to a lower insurance deductible.

8. Less Traffic

This means safer, quicker commuting – for those carpooling, taking public transportation, or biking. I relish the days when the bus is on-time and like the less-traveled streets for bike commuting.

9. More Cops on the Beat

This may be a difficult thing to change as most people would be able to out-run a cop on a bike (unless he’s a good shot). I do think that, like the UPS initiative, police will learn to be creative in order to lower their fuel usage. There’ll never be a force that is totally car-free, but maybe more that are a combination of cruisers, motorcycles, bikes, horses, and feet.

10. Less Obesity

I think the more people are outside and enjoying their foot or bike commute, the more they may be inclined to reduce their impact in other ways.

In conclusion, the ratio of fuel payouts to salary is quite high for me even though I drive little, but I’m glad that $4/gallon is seeming to change people’s habits. I would much rather pay more is see people use less.

~ by iloveOrange on July 7, 2008.