While lots of people seem to be whining about high fuel prices (did you know that gas was $4/gallon in Europe in 2001?), Vermonters are getting smarter about their energy use. We can easily cut our energy costs in HALF by being less wasteful. Taking action in our personal lives is a good place to start. Even our U.S. Congress is paying attention to the "Carbon Shredders," a Vermont group that is trying to help people measure and reduce their energy costs.

The following floor statement was made on August 1 by Vermont Congressman Peter Welch.

The 110th Congress has been focused on rising energy prices, protecting our environment, and finding concrete, long term solutions to climate change. The scientific evidence is clear: global warming is real, it is urgent, and it requires our immediate attention. I would like to take this opportunity to recognize the dedicated efforts of Carbon Shredders, a grassroots environmental group based in the Mad River Valley of Vermont.

Formed in the fall of 2007 by three local environmentalists, Carbon Shredders dedicates its time to curbing local energy consumption, helping Vermonters lower their energy costs, and working towards a clean energy future. The group challenges participants to alter their lifestyles in ways consistent with the goal of reduced energy consumption.

In March, three Vermont towns passed resolutions introduced by Carbon Shredders that call on residents and businesses to reduce their carbon footprint by ten percent by 2010. In addition to the environmental advantages of this initiative, participating households are expected to save nearly $700 each year. Carbon Shredders’ membership has grown considerably in Vermont since its founding, and the group has recently received national attention. I would like to recognize Carbon Shredders for their efforts on behalf of Vermont and the global community at-large. Any real solutions to the energy and environmental crises will demand the leadership and vision exemplified by this locally-based grassroots organization from Vermont. Thank you. *****

Thank you, Peter!

The Carbon Shredders (http://www.carbonshredders.org/) is a group co-founded by Seventh Generation, Green Mountain Coffee Roasters, and Yestermorrow Design/Build School and supported by NRG Systems, William Maclay Architects and Planners, and the Town of Warren.