Memorandum submitted by Mr Martin Dixon
(CRED 19)
BACKGROUND
I regret if this is a little confused, but I
have ME. I use solar panels, low energy bulbs, washing balls,
etc I have double glazing, have reduced my room temperature and
close my doors and curtains. My house does not have a cavity wall,
but I have good roof insulation. I actively recycle and buy as
much local produce as I can. I drive as efficiently as possible—highest
gear, gentle speed change and braking; if reasonably accessible,
I use public transport. I am constantly exploring the available
sources of information about climate change and energy efficiency.
I am 70, have grand children and actively support a child in Africa.
COMMENT
Whatever the cause(s) climate change, global
warming and fuel peaks (oil and gas) are with us now and their
effects will have an increasing influence on the lives of every
one on earth (human or otherwise). The nearest approach that currently
exists to a panacea is the immediate reduction in energy use.
There is already a considerable array of equipment and actions
which, if used universally, would immediately reduce energy consumption
significantly. This would allow a brief breathing space in which
to harness the ability of science and popular thought to this
challenge.
An increasing proportion of the population have
taken some independent action, but are discouraged by a combination
of cost, effort, lack of easily available information and complex
regulation. Financial incentives are urgently needed to encourage
the co-operative development of energy saving equipment so as
to ensure that the most efficient are given the greatest opportunity
to "mass produce" thereby reducing unit cost. Taxation
on energy saving should be removed and grants should be made widely
available. Greater taxation should be placed on energy waste in
any form. This should apply equally to both private and public
producers, transport and consumers so as to concentrate the collective
thought and compound the effect. I do not believe that the principle
of trading benefits will significantly reduce the overall energy
use and their widespread use will discourage inefficient users
from making any significant changes quickly.
There has been greater change in the last 100
years than at any time in human history, but basic commercial
practice and all levels of government have not changed much. The
media emphasise despair, appear to work against co-operation and
encourage the mind set of blame and compensation. In all three
areas there is little real enthusiasm for "best practice"
except where it results in a direct improvement in the "bottom
line" (profit), or personal gain.
All levels of government should ensure that
"best practice" is researched, practised and shared
(eg The use by the Mayor of London of the successful principles
actively used by Woking Council). Where there is no clear benchmark
central government should ensure unbiased research is initiated
with urgency and the results made widely available. All new development,
replacement, or other action should only be progressed if it reduces
environmental impact and energy use .
Mr Martin Dixon
January 2007
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