As the global-warming and sustainable-energy bill H.R. 2454 burrows its way through Congress, one important thing to remember, whether you are pro or con, is that change does not happen by itself—someone has to make it happen. Parts of the carbon-emissions argument are controversial for sure with spinmeister Al Gore accused of pushing message at the expense of science. But few tend to argue about other parts of the issue, like the need for more sustainable-energy sources, better energy performance in new and existing buildings and energy independence in general.
The energy debate ran hot and heavy for a while in late 1973 when Arab nations imposed an oil embargo on the U.S. in retaliation for its support of Israel in the Yom Kippur War. But the debate and interest faded along with the long lines at gas stations. We only now are seeing a renewed surge of interest in better vehicle fuel economy and sustainable-energy sources after petroleum and natural-gas prices hit record levels, in some cases filling the coffers of nations and organizations that work against the U.S.