Curbing Our Oil Consumption

The days of paying less than $1 per gallon at the pump are long gone, and our nation faces a growing energy crisis. Today this issue takes center stage as Michigan voters decide which presidential candidate can mend their state’s economy while decreasing our dependence on foreign oil. (CNNMoney.com has a chart that outlines each candidate’s energy policy.)

As we weigh the candidates’ positions on this issue, let’s not forget that every American can play a role in ending our “oil addiction.” Not everyone can afford a hybrid car, but each of us can make an effort to drive less by choosing to walk, bike or take public transportation to our destinations. It also helps to group errands—for example, running to the bank, the grocery store and the hardware store in one trip—so we're not jumping in the car each time we think of something we need. A little forethought can save each of us time and gas money.