The Oil Crisis

New article in Scientific American about the current oil crisis that's only going to get worse over the next decade as China and India flood the global oil marketplace with consumers, significantly increasing the demand for this limited commodity. In response the author proposes two measures: 1) design cars the run on clean, renewable fuel; 2) reconfigure cities to be more friendly to walkers, bikers, and public transportation. Sounds like a start to me.

This is just one reason why Chicago residents need to be hoping we get the 2016 Olympics. Securing the games would result in a massive increase in public transportation spending. As anyone who's been to Atlanta or Barcelona knows, the Olympics can result in a gorgeous, efficient public transportation system that remains long after the Olympics are over.

Tuesday, September 23, 2008