I have come to the conclusion that the reason many people, including lots of Christians, are immobilized by or in denial about talk of Climate Change is that we aren't really built for the "big picture." Our genetic programming is to feed and shelter ourselves as effectively as possible in the moment, so we don't really have natural "governors" to keep us from eating ourselves to death or making sure that we provide a safe habitat for subsequent generations. In certain Christian circles there is the notion that God will just take care of everything, or Jesus will "beam us up" before it gets too bad.
We do better with the smaller tasks such as recycling, and composting, and taking along shopping bags to the grocery store. These are important ways to make a difference, although the systemic stuff is probably still far more urgent.
So what do you think of the Clown Prince of Toronto, aka Mayor Rob Ford, suggesting that he will do away with the plastic bag fee? I listened to a retailer who said that before the fee he went through five to six thousand plastic bags a week. Now it is every six months. When the measly five cent fee was introduced the goal was to reduce the use of bags by 70% in ten years. Toronto achieved the goal in one month --onemonth!
Apparently some people have grumbled to Ford, and of course he is the peoples' guy. So what about people who don't want to pay any taxes, or those who gripe because the weather isn't a version of the Truman Show every day? What will he do for them?
And here I thought politicians were supposed to provide leadership. Well, it's fairly clear where I stand on this one! What is your perspective? Maybe you figure he has a point about over-governing, or some other outlook.
3 comments:
After having just picked up plastic bags from our street this afternoon, that someone left "blowing in the wind", I am totally against Ford's proposal. I really think the fee makes people stop and think. Achieving Toronto's goal in one month is amazing. Think of what upping the price to .10cents might do? Happy New Year to all.
I have developed a bit of an aversion to getting plastic bags. It is not so much the 5 cent fee, but rather just doing my little part for the environment. However, obviously the fee has had a positive effect, and it is too bad Ford is suggesting scrapping the fee.
Sometimes I'm surprised that the spot where we stuff plastic bags is virtually empty. To me it is good sign of a small change that makes a difference.
Thanks to both of you for your observations.
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