As I mentioned earlier, there will be higher gasoline prices while production, imports and refining capacity is cut in the wake of Katrina. I think the best way to reduce prices is to have as much voluntary reductions in gas consumption as possible over the next 2-3 months. Perhaps we can learn some ways of permanently reducing our demand for gas during this period of time to help learn how to adjust to a more sustainable way of life.

One easy way of reducing demand is to eliminate as much single occupancy vehicles as possible and start carpooling more. According the US Census report that I recently downloaded, only 1 in 7 NY State commuters carpool of those who use a car as their primary way to travel to work.

On the 10 o'clock news I saw them cover a service that helps connect people in need of a ride. It's called NuRide. Go check it out. Even if you don't own a car, you can participate. And you can earn points toward gift certificates from their sponsors. Help create a more sustainable way of life in your community.