Is anybody else sick and tired of environmentalists and others telling you what you can or cannot drive?
If so, you’re not alone. Many truck enthusiasts and business owners aren’t happy with others telling them what they should drive either. In fact, many of them have joined together to fight these forces that “butt in” to their lifestyle.
Since the state legislature in Minnesota has tried to adopt the strict emissions standards that California and nearly a dozen other states have, people have been fighting to prevent this from happening. The Minnesota Auto Dealers Association and many other Minnesotans have created a website called Don’t Take My Truck. It’s one of the largest and most concentrated efforts in the nation to fight back against those trying to take away the option of driving big trucks.
But why are they trying to do this? Even experts at the Green Daily website agree that large trucks and SUVs aren’t significant contributors to global warming. In fact, these vehicles have become nearly 100 percent more efficient than they were over 30 years ago. And even if big trucks were huge contributors of carbon dioxide emissions into the atmosphere, companies like construction companies and others simply can’t do business without large trucks. So where would the new regulations leave them?
Until the truck manufacturers create highly-efficient models of their largest products, people are just going to have to deal with the problem and take care of their own business before telling others what to do with their lifestyles. Besides, if truck owners are willing to spend upwards of $100 to fill up their gas tank, whose place is it to tell them that they can’t do it?
Fortunately, you can visit your local GMC truck dealer and find the latest models with more efficient technology. The trucks they have today aren’t the same gas-guzzling models they had in the 1970s or even just a decade ago.
Take My Wife, Please! But Don’t Take My Truck!
Funerals Go Green
If today’s cultural mindset was to be summed up in a single word, that word would be “green.” Global warming, the extinction and near-extinction of formerly common species of animals and an increasing concern about the amount of non-biodegradable garbage that is generated every day have led to an unprecedented level of concern for the environment. From waste management companies to auto manufacturers, businesses are responding with new, environmentally friendlier technologies.
The funeral industry is no exception. Increasing demand has led to a widespread expansion of funeral options that have decidedly less of an impact on the environment. Planning an environmentally friendly funeral need not be any more work than a traditional funeral, nor is there any reason for it to be less expensive. Provided here are a few tips for maintaining the solemnity and respect inherent in a funeral ceremony while minimizing damage to the environment.
Choose a Biodegradable Casket
Traditional caskets are designed to be nearly indestructible. However, a biodegradable casket from a sustainable source is an equally beautiful means of honoring a loved one. Over time, the material will break down and help to nourish the planet.
Choose Biodegradable Clothing
When choosing a loved one’s funeral clothing, there are many considerations. A lightweight outfit of natural materials is a thoughtful and elegant choice.
Utilize a Crematorium With Modern Filters
Standard coffins, particularly those used in cremation, are made of veneered chipboard. When burned, the material can emit formaldehyde. Look for a crematorium that has up to date filtration to avoid releasing toxic gases into the environment.
Minimize the Number of Cars
A funeral limo is a wonderful way to bring together the closest relatives and friends of the deceased. This is a tradition that many families are reluctant to give up. Fortunately, there is no need to give this up. Just ensure that each limo is full. Transporting all or most of the mourners in multi-passenger limos can be more environmentally sound that a long procession of cars, each containing one or two people.
The Bottom Line
Environmental issues are a very real concern in today’s society. Traditionally, the funeral industry has followed traditions that can be harmful to the environment. However, modern funeral directors are responding to public concern by blending the most important traditions, such as funeral limos, with beautiful and environmentally sound new practices, such as biodegradable coffins.
