Conservation of energy starts with our actions

To the editor:

After reading Terry Canupp's denigrating remarks about Alan Journet, I knew I must write in Journet's support. His is the only voice of reason on the Opinion page concerning our environment. All he asks is that we consider alternatives.

When do we begin to understand we cannot go on like this? I don't blame other countries for not liking us. We are arrogant, consumptive and wasteful. Am I anti-capitalist because I don't support drilling in the Arctic? Very few will benefit from that sorry venture. We need to explore alternative sources of energy and reduce our dependence on fossil fuels.

What a difference we could make if we each found ways to save energy: Mow less lawn. Recycle everything. Buy durable goods instead of disposable items. Where do you think all that goes when you throw it away? It results in land, air and water pollution.

My biggest pet peeve? Light pollution. I have restored an old homestead rather than build new. My neighbors and I have avoided the use of dusk-to-dawn lamps, but recently our newest neighbor installed two of those lamps. If you are afraid of the dark, you should stay in town. It's supposed to be dark in the country. I have outside lights, but I turn them off when I'm done.

It's time we all accept responsibility for the energy predicament we now find ourselves in.

DEBBIE NAETER

Egypt Mills, Mo.