Let’s cut our oil usage by half

As one of the largest cities in the United States, Chicago has resting on its shoulders a heavy responsibility. This responsibility consists of taking care of the citizens and keeping in mind the global implications of state and city legislation. Yet, rising gas prices, rates of asthma and global temperature averages all evidence the fact that Illinois’ dependence on oil stands as a failure to carry out the responsibility the state has to its residents.

In order for the state to carry out the environmental responsibility that Illinois has thus far shirked, new and active legislation is necessary. The Illinois Oil Independence Act, which proposes that Illinois half its oil usage by 2050, is precisely that sort of legislation. Support of this bill will not only pragmatically fight the havoc which further burning of fossil fuels threatens to wreak, but will act as a statement to the rest of the country that the people of the Chicago region and all of Illinois demand sound climate policy.

Abraham Joyal

Environment Illinois

Chicago