'Green' vs. Green (Happy Earth Day)

Having moved across Canada for the summer, my posting schedule is not exactly how I planned it. So, I missed the chance to tell you about Victoria-related Earth Day events (such as composting in Beacon Hill Park).

We'll survive...

For my Earth Day post, I wanted to look at the difference between what is advertised as 'green' and what is really good for the Earth.

My case in point is hybrid cars.

Currently, hybrid cars are in no way, shape, or form good or even better for the environment than conventional, gasoline-guzzling vehicles.

There was a report by CNW that suggested that the Prius is, in fact, worse for the environment than a Hummer H1.

Since then, various experts have refuted the study's conclusions and methodology -- and then subsequent experts have refuted those experts. (Use google or see the comments below this cnet post for more on the debate.)

The true 'winner' between the H1 and the Prius is completely trivial.

Why?

Logic tells us that the Toyota Prius and Hummer H1 have similar environmental footprints across their lifespan (otherwise, the debate would not exist). Repeat that sentence in your head.

Hybrids are not green. Cars are not green. New products require a whole lot of energy, water, and resources to produce and, these days ('back in my day...'), usually have a very finite lifespan.

I highly doubt that, in our lifetimes, there will be a motorized, privately-owned vehicle that approaches anything resembling 'green'.

On the other hand...

The 'greenest' car -- as far as I can tell -- is a used, fuel-efficient one that  you maintain and keep for a long, long time.

Let me know your (least) favourite not-so-green product/technology.