To the editor: The struggle to account for and reduce one's carbon footprint, as scientist Evan Mills did in his own home, is real and ultimately informative. However, reducing our collective carbon footprint requires passing legislation. (“Greening our homes and cars in Northern California reduced our energy bills by $11,000 a year. But it wasn't easy,” Opinion, Jan. 6)
The Inflation Reduction Act may be the most important climate legislation in history, but it has to start with us because the United States is the largest carbon emitter in history. In the future, we will be forced to pay to eliminate our carbon emissions just to not cook.
A company called Climeworks will directly capture your personal carbon footprint today for about $1,300 per ton, but it can only remove 4,000 metric tons per year. The average American is responsible for about 15 tons each year.
Wouldn't it be more efficient to price carbon at the source of production with a carbon fee instead of subsidizing fossil fuels? Let market forces do the work.
Consumers will pay one way or another.
Pam Brennan, Newport Beach
..
To the editor: Great article by Evan Mills, but where is the guide on how to do what he did?
He is the expert who did all the work. He showed us that it takes years of experience to understand how to navigate and reap the benefits of greening. Then he can help those of us who long to be free.
I run Counterpoint Records and Books in Hollywood. Mills can write the guide for it and we will sell it in our store.
I've tried to convert where I can, but as Mills said, it's not easy being green. Most of the time you get discouraged when you enthusiastically ask for help.
Susan Polifronio, Los Angeles
..
To the editor: This is the kind of article I will read again and again, with its depth of information and useful insights.
It's motivating how much energy you could save, and disheartening how contractors and sales representatives don't always have the experience or commitment to save costs or reduce emissions.
I plan to “track commands” and delve into the details of my house and work on all possible efficiencies in addition to adding new systems.
Thanks for the article. More of the same please.
Elizabeth Fenner, Los Angeles
