By the Rev. Dr. Patricia “Trisha” Tull Reducing our household energy footprint isn’t everything, but it is the one thing that only we can do to prepare ourselves for a carbon-free future. Doing so lightens our impact; it is an act of environmental justice toward all who innocently suffer from climate disasters—the poor, the young and other species. It also communicates hope, and models for neighbors and friends what is possible. And, despite the challenge of up-front financial outlays, changing our household systems saves money. With recent technological gains, tax breaks and rebates offered through the
As co-facilitator of Third Act Maine I am disappointed that there was not one mention of the role the money well off Americans have in the big dirty banks plays in increasing ones carbon footprint. As Bill McKibben likes to say, 150 K in a Chase savings account is like having 3 Cadillac Escalades idling in your driveway all year long. Here in Maine, the faith community has not been willing to challenge the corporations for fear of alienating their fellow members. Just emphasizing personal carbon footprints is just what BP and Exxon-Mobil want us to do. It's well past time to throw the money lenders out of the temple!
As co-facilitator of Third Act Maine I am disappointed that there was not one mention of the role the money well off Americans have in the big dirty banks plays in increasing ones carbon footprint. As Bill McKibben likes to say, 150 K in a Chase savings account is like having 3 Cadillac Escalades idling in your driveway all year long. Here in Maine, the faith community has not been willing to challenge the corporations for fear of alienating their fellow members. Just emphasizing personal carbon footprints is just what BP and Exxon-Mobil want us to do. It's well past time to throw the money lenders out of the temple!