quotable

How long did Carl Pope take to think this one up?

Renewable energy sources like wind and solar are getting a lot of attention these days as a way to reduce the impact of energy use on the environment. But even enthusiastic supporters of alternative energy agree that the easiest way to cut carbon emissions and air pollution is to focus more on efficiency, less on pollution-free generation.

“Efficiency is the steak,” said Carl Pope, executive director of the Sierra Club. “Renewables are the sizzle.”

That's from a story today by the NY Times' Matthew Wald about energy efficiency. It's got some good stuff, including the idea that utilities can step in and invest in efficiency upgrades when consumers won't, then charge a small premium on the investment returns.
The Times also had companion stories about climate change and hurricane frequency and intensity -- the science is still out -- and making New Orleans hurricane-proof. The picture, from NOAA, is of engineers simulating a canal failure. I hope those folks are wearing Extratufs.