Save Our Environment, By Kristi Trucks

Measure your carbonfootprint here


In the May 2007 issue of Vanity Fair magazine, the self-described green issue sheds light on the impact “America’s 34 million sport-utility vehicles spew up to 30 percent more carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons than passenger cars, and 75 percent more nitrogen oxide.”


My Corolla receives 38 miles per gallon highway and 30 miles per gallon city. Imagine the costs ensued by the owner of a sport-utility vehicle. SUVs are, typically, fuel inefficient. For instance, in Consumer Reports annual review of 2007 cars and trucks, the Dodge Durango Limited received the lowest marks for fuel-efficiency with an overall mpg of 12. As the owner of a Dodge Durango you can expect to be spending more time and money at the gas station. However, it is not simply about saving money. The website www.fueleconomy.gov, a collaborative effort between the Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Energy, attempts to answer the following question: “Why is Fuel Economy Important?” According to the website, in addition to saving money, Americans should invest in more fuel-efficient vehicles in order to reduce our dependence on foreign oil, prevent depletion of nonrenewable resources like petroleum, and help protect the environment.