Despite high car ownership in some countries, most drivers are NOT car enthusiasts. They just use their cars to get around, to commute to work, shops, go on holidays etc. Those of us who love engines and love to drive need not worry about global warming. We are pleasure drivers. We are not the cause of the problem, rather the lack of public transport and attitudes to cars are the root of the problem. There are so few genuine car enthusiasts in the world that we barely contribute to a fraction of CO2 emissions.

There are many alternatives to oil. Cars may be run on biodiesel made from cooking oil, sugar beet or rapeseed oil. Electric and hybrid cars may be run on electricity generated by wave and wind technology. Synthetic oil may be produced in laboratories to replace organic oil.

The problem is that there will not be enough land to produce the vast quantities of biofuel needed and to run enough wind turbines. Also, the cost of synthetic oil is dearer.

However, we should treat this as an opportunity to get most people to change to a healthier lifestyle. I cycle to and from work every morning. At weekends, when there is not so much traffic on the roads, I rev up my lotus and go for a spin.

There are many people who have no choice but to use their car to get to work. Many of them hate driving in heavy traffic and would gladly switch to public transport if it was safe, efficient and inexpensive.

Take a look at countries such as Germany and Austria. They have wonderful public transport networks. There needs to be a concerted public awareness campaign and public investment in transport networks to give people alternatives.

Learn more about this author, A. S. Beckett.
Click here to send author comments or questions.

---

Add your voice

Know something about Why car enthusiasts shouldn't lose sleep over global warming?
We want to hear your view. Write now!