We should strive to understand the connection between national security and energy, and start working on solutions that can end our oil addiction. We are seeing one of the most devastating consequences of this oil addiction in the Gulf of Mexico as the BP disaster worsens every day. If we remain dependent on oil, it leaves us open to spills that destroy our local economies and environment.
Our over-reliance on oil for much of our transportation is also perhaps the single most underappreciated threat to U.S. national security, giving leverage and money to potential adversaries and embroiling the U.S. state in endless conflicts abroad to secure access to oil. Improving fuel economy standards for all vehicles, electrifying vehicles of all types, investing in rail for freight and commuting, creating livable communities where transit, walking, and biking are important—these are all real, oil-free choices.
It’s time to call on President Obama to create a solid plan for ending our country’s dependence on oil and moving us toward a clean energy economy.
This article appears in Jun 17-24, 2010.