A Modest Proposal Regarding Climate Change
Anneliese Metzger
No one is exempt from the drastic effects of climate change. It is causing droughts, hunger, floods, terrible weather, and poverty (United Nations). It is depriving people of the luxurious lives they could be living by sapping the government's money and our own. And the largest cause of this issue? Transportation. 38% of climate change is caused by transportation such as cars, buses, planes, and trucks (Congressional Budget Office). And ¾ of this is caused by road travel such as cars and buses (Ritchie). In addition, creating these methods of transportation, such as manufacturing cars, also releases large amounts of greenhouse gases. The quick way to reduce climate change a drastic amount would be to solve this issue. However, a more effective, immediate solution would be to eliminate the issue entirely. So, I modestly propose that all travel by road, including but not limited to trucks, cars, and buses, be eliminated.
There are many benefits to this plan. First, all the money spent on these forms of transportation would be saved. The government would no longer need to spend large amounts of money on constructing and repairing roads. Furthermore, people would no longer have to pay for cars or their upkeep and could spend the money elsewhere. The large amount of money people spend on gas could be spent elsewhere and complaints about the high prices of gas would cease. Overall, it saves a large amount of money for everyone involved. Secondly, all road related accidents and deaths would be prevented. “Approximately 1.19 million people die each year as a result of road traffic crashes.” (World Health Organization) All of these unfortunate deaths could be prevented if cars were not used. The whole world would become a lot safer. Thirdly, everyone’s lifestyle would drastically improve. Instead of driving a car everywhere, people would get exercise and fresh air. Walking, biking, and other forms of exercise would become more important. Everyone would be healthier, and their lifespans would improve. The quality of air would also improve. All of these benefits would occur almost immediately after the plan is put into effect, and they are incredibly helpful to everyone involved.
Of course, other less drastic solutions might be suggested. However, none of these plans have the same benefits as simply removing all road travel. For example, some scientists believe alternative fuels could be used. However, this requires research, which requires a great deal of money. It also requires time and does not have any immediate benefits other than increased spending. Furthermore, it does not have the guarantee of safety or financial benefits my plan does. In addition, removing cars ensures a higher quality lifestyle for everyone involved. Similarly, if electric cars were used none of the previous benefits would apply. Alternative solutions would require extra time and are much less effective while removing the benefits my plan provides.
Overall, this plan is quick, effective, and benefits everyone immediately. More than 28% of climate change could be removed by eliminating road travel. All money spent on cars, the roads, gas, or other related costs could be spent elsewhere helping the economy. In addition, everyone would be safer and experience a higher quality lifestyle. There would be no more road related deaths, and everyone's health and life spans would improve. Other plans such as electric cars or alternative fuel sources do not have any of the benefits removing road travel would have and require unnecessary time, research, and money. Creating a solution is much less effective than simply removing the problem. The effect people are having on the environment would drastically decrease, ensuring a future for everyone. I myself and other students here cannot participate in this plan because here on Kwajalein road travel is not used. Despite this, I am certain that the benefits of this plan are in everyone's interest including ours and I encourage everyone else to put it into effect as soon as possible. Reject the vehicles that are causing your problems and take control of your own life, claiming the benefits you could have.