change, change, change

Relating to my earlier post on the film “who killed the electric car?” last night I saw the ad on TV by Shell, the big oil company on a new type of fuel. The imageries are a mix of smoke spewing from cars and industries, forest fires and the sorts. And today I read on news article on Obama’s proposed reform on fuel energy. From what I gather reading the article, if Uncle Sam’s energy policy is geared towards renewable energy, hence there is no need to import (read steal) fossil fuels from other countries (read Middle East) therefore indirectly a new American Era or Dream is born. This will change the rest of the world view / perception on America and once again the so called American Dream where everyone has grown accustom to pre 9/11 shall resurface.

Last night, whilst browsing some books at Borders BTS, I came across the book “Small, Flat & Crowded” the latest book by Thomas Friedman (The World is Flat) talks about the same thing. Energy policy and why the world (read America and China) need to change their energy usage habits. The best quote that I read, not sure by whom and where is “If you want the world/earth to remain the same, you need to change”. Well said. If you and I expect the earth to remain the same, meaning there is still water to drink, food to eat, air to breath, then you and I need to change first.

Well, it is not easy to change, fellow friends. Change is hard. Why change? Sorry to tell you, that you aint’ got no choice, earthlings!! Here are some tips, on getting people to change. Don’t blame me for any door slammings, slipper throwing, middle finger-ings that you may encounter when advocating. You have been warned…

1. Find something they care about (gardening, futsal, their kids' health, Mawi world) and talk about the environment as it relates to that issue specifically. Get your creative juices going, and yes, try relating environment to our dear Mawi.

2. Talk ringgits and cents. Tell them how much money you've saved by installing CFL light bulbs, taking the bus and planting low maintenance plants (cactus). It works because we don’t need to learn new morality; wrap our heads around scientific evidence; or face our deepest fears. It taps into the part of our brains that’s been conditioned since birth to think MONEY = GOOD." Money saved, is money well spent.

3. Green gifting is great. Present your friends with a hip canvas grocery bag, cool reusable water bottle, some green cleaning products or organic chocolate bar. Chances are they'll enjoy it and begin to associate green living with good living.

4. Blind them with science. Of course, your Naza Ria (or any other fuel guzzlers on our roads)-driving Cik Timah may still think global warming is a hoax. Check out Coby Beck's "How to Talk to a Climate Skeptic" for tips on chatting with her, but keep in mind she may never embrace an eco-existence.

5. Show by doing. Walking to the grocery store is better when you have a friend along; invite yours for 'exercise' and then pop into the supermarket while you're out. Making a home cooked meal with a friend (even if they just keep you company) can show them how luscious cooking (instead of ordering in) can be.

6. Make it fun. Picking your own veggies and flowers at the farmer's market is a feast for the senses, bike riding makes everyone feel young again, and taking the kids (theirs and yours) to the park for a game of football or kite flying instead of sitting in front of the TV will give everyone a healthy, happy glow.