From Gas to Electric

one car at a time...

by Diane Parnell

It has been a rough year for humans. But here is some good news for our planet. It appears that the oil and gas industry is finally coming to terms with the realization that the world’s demand for oil has peaked. Only 21% say they will increase investment in oil projects in 2021.

Keeping with that theme, General Motors is the latest auto giant to join the many that have launched aggressive electric-vehicle (EV) programs. GM plans to eliminate gasoline and diesel light-duty cars and SUVs by 2035, and expects to be carbon neutral by 2040. “Major industries have to look to the future and anticipate it,” says Barry Rabe, a professor of public policy at the University of Michigan. “Do you really want to be the last one standing with the possibility that you’re just producing nostalgic vehicles?”

Others get it: Volkswagen will launch 70 new electric models in the next ten years; Ford is spending $11.5 billion on new EVs; and Tesla plans to increase sales of its all-electric fleet. Here in California, the goal is to stop sales of gasoline-powered automobiles within fifteen years. Let’s celebrate these positive steps in the global effort to save Mother Earth!

COVID-19 Resource Guide

SLO County Alternatives to calling 911...

Homeless Resources TMHA’s Homeless Outreach Team

Miriam Vargas: (805) 550-7691 SLO Community Action Team

Tim Koznek: (805) 594-8041

John Klevins: (805) 781-7334 40 Prado Homeless Services Center SLO: (805) 544-4004 El Camino Homeless Organization

Atascadero: (805) 462-3663

Mental Health Guidance TMHA’s Behavioral Health Navigators

Adults age 25 or older, contact Danielle: (805) 540-6552

Teens/young adults ages 16-25, contact Jovi: (805) 779-0706 Family Care Network (for teens and youth) 805-781-3535 County of SLO Behavioral Health 24/7 Hotline: (800) 838-1381 Mental Health Crisis Lines SLO Hotline: (800) 783-0607 National Suicide Prevention Hotline: (800) 273-8255 Crisis Text Line:

Text HOME to: 741741

LGBTQ+ Crisis Lines Trans Lifeline: (877) 565-8860 Trevor Project Lifeline: (866) 488-7386

Senior Resources CA Friendship Line: (888) 670-1360 Adult Protective Services: (805) 781-1790

Domestic/Intimate Partner Violence Hotlines Stand Strong: (805) 781-6401 RISE: (805) 226-5400 CA Coalition Against Sexual Assault: (661) 327-1091 National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799-7233