Sir, – In 1973 there was a crisis around the availability and cost of oil caused by war in the Middle East. The response in Europe was much different from what is happening now.
Denmark started producing wind turbines and their prowess now means that they have 91 per cent green energy. France took the nuclear route and this has been hugely beneficial for them.
Sweden focused on better insulation and building standards along with group heating systems. The Dutch set about having better conditions for cyclists and I suppose cycling is easier in the Netherlands because it is a flat and densely populated country.
One Dutch law probably wouldn’t be obeyed here like so many laws that we break routinely – the use of cars was forbidden on Sundays with a view to saving petrol. It was strictly implemented.
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The whole thrust of the 1973 response was to cut back on the use of petrol and diesel. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if our Government encouraged us to reduce our usage now instead of giving financial support by cutting taxes? By all means support those who are struggling but this is an ideal opportunity to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels.
The fossil fuel lobby has governments in the palm of their hand. As the climate crisis hurtles towards the inevitable destruction of our planet no one is shouting stop. – Yours, etc,
MARY NAUGHTON,
Rosses Point,
Sligo.
