THE PUBLIC MIND: GOOD INFORMATION IS NEEDED BEFORE LAWS ARE APPROVED

To the Editor:

There has been much in the news about carbon dioxide as a pollutant and the pressure being put on automobile manufacturers and electric utilities, among others, to reduce the output of carbon dioxide released into the air. It was suggested that smaller automobiles be produced and that less electric power be produced as it was indicated that carbon dioxide caused a "greenhouse effect." Presently there is a difference of opinions as to the hazard. Before major changes are made in industry, more accurate information should be available, particularly if government is to make mandatory regulations.

For plants to grow well (this includes agricultural crops such as corn, wheat, soybeans, cotton, pasture grass, fruit, vegetables etc.; also forest trees and home-owner lawns and flowers) four major things are needed: water, sunlight, plant food and carbon dioxide. Without meat, grain, milk and vegetables, food for people would be scarce. If carbon dioxide is lowered, food will be more scarce. If carbon dioxide is slightly more plentiful, plants will grow more luxuriant. When plants use carbon dioxide, they use the carbon in their structure and release the oxygen. People and animals breathe in oxygen and breathe out carbon dioxide. People and animals cannot exist without oxygen. Plants cannot exist without carbon dioxide. Think about this, we need to be well informed before we let our government be panicked into taking action that may be foolish.

Carl L. Penzel

Jackson