A new study released by the California Manufacturers and Technology Association suggests that the costs associated with the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (AB 32) may be much higher than previous estimates.
The study concluded, “that the average California family will pay an additional $2,500 annually by 2020 when AB 32 is fully implemented. In addition, the state is expected to lose an additional 262,000 jobs, 5.6 percent of the gross state product, and a whopping $7.4 billion through decreased annual state and local tax revenues as a result.” (IVN.us, 7/4/12).
Signed into law by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, this act put California in the forefront in the fight against global warming. And, as Californians brace for the impact of these regulations, much of the rest of the country faces similar situations: rising greenhouse gas emissions coupled with a serious dependence on foreign fuel sources with unstable pricing.
But, what is the answer? Are all of the “green” solutions we’re being given really the answer? If we’re spending money we don’t have to invent 100 ways to use less energy, isn’t that creating another set of problems?
There are much simpler ways to reduce our demand for fuel, reduce our carbon footprint and save money–and they’re truly green solutions, because they utilize existing products and make them work smarter. For example, instead of spending millions to replace commercial HVAC systems or replacing inefficient windows, there are ways to make existing windows work smarter.
Technology like that in the Thermolite Window System relies on an existing window system and supplements it. There is no reason to replace old, inefficient windows in your building. Working with your existing windows, the Thermolite Window System can make your current windows work smarter–not harder.
Contact us today to see how our low-tech system can help your building go green without spending a lot of green. Stop thinking everything green has to be new and re-think the way you go green!