Abundent energy resources are critical in keeping the economy going and in maintaining our livelihood. The problem is that imperative resources such as gasoline and electricity are becoming extinct without us being utterly aware of its seriousness. Some claim that the government should increase the price of gasoline and electricity to conserve fossil fuels. Nevertheless, I believe this method would not concern te fundamental matter.
First, the government should support alternative resources instead of simply increasing the price of natural resources. Notwithstanding the fact that increasing price can make people hesistant of spreeing and prevent them from wasting resources, this is not a prospective solution. By inventing new energy sources, from building solar panels and wind mills to lessen extinction of resources but still obtain energy from renewable resources, the government will still be able to conserve fossil fuels. The government should reform its yearly plan to support scientists to work on projects that concern both the environment and power sources.
Second, a sudden increase in price of necessary gasoline and electricity would greatly harm the poor. Those that are rich would less be affected by the increase in price. There would then be riots from the majority of the population against the government's decision to increase needed resources. In fact, the destitute people are those that are best in need of gasoline and electricity and ruining their lifestyle by preventing them from using exorbitant priced resources would deter the government as well. Therefore, it is best that the government promulgate important facts concerning extinction so that people gradually swift their lifestyle from wasting materials towards protecting environment in their everyday lives.
Lastly, according to the theory of demand and supply, an increase in price would deter consumers from over utilizing certain products. This would possibly allow the government to conserve fossil fuels. Hence, it is more important that the government invest on finding renewable resourcs and be aware of the ipacts of sudden increase in price of gasoline and electricity. |