New York limo company opts for offsets instead of hybrids
Over the past couple of years many livery companies around have bought a variety of hybrid vehicles with which to shuttle their clients around. However, New York-based Valera Global has decided to take a pass and instead go the carbon offset route. They claim that after studying the purchase of hybrids for their fleet it just didn't make economic sense. Instead they have joined the Chicago Climate Exchange (CCX) and are offsetting their carbon emissions.
Many of Valera's arguments seem highly dubious. First of all there is the cost factor. Valera CEO Robert Mackasek claims the $7,000 replacement cost of batteries was a factor. Given the infrequency with which hybrids need battery replacement and the success that vehicles like the Ford Escape Hybrid have had when used as cabs in Manhattan without battery service, this one is a non-starter. Mackasek also argues that clients don't actually want to give up the comforts of larger vehicles for smaller hybrids. This may well be true for many clients, but there are undoubtedly those who feel otherwise and it seems unlikely that even some small number of hybrids wouldn't be put to extensive use. Then there is the reality that most carbon offset programs are of highly questionable value anyway. It really just sounds like a bunch of excuses.
[Source: Detroit News]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Tim 10:48AM (12/23/2007)
The only thing that is "offset" in this scheme is money! Some people are so damn gullible! “Carbon Offsetting” What a crewel joke.
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Dad 1:09PM (12/23/2007)
"Many of Valera's arguments seem highly dubious. "
Then the solution is easy, you do it! Really, if you are so wise and knowledgeable about this subject, you put up your money and go for it. Or, as they say, talk is cheap and actions speak louder than words. Put your money where your mouth is!
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GenWaylaid 4:01PM (12/23/2007)
Dad,
There's another reason why "talk is cheap": actions can be really expensive! Starting a livery company is not something most people can afford, and trying to break into a major city market like Chicago would be nearly impossible thanks to all the competition and stiff regulations.
The real way to "put your money where your mouth is" on this topic is to only patronize hybrid cabs. It's a little more legwork but a good way to show where your sentiments lie without quitting your day job.
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Dad 4:41PM (12/23/2007)
"The real way to "put your money where your mouth is" on this topic is to only patronize hybrid cabs. It's a little more legwork but a good way to show where your sentiments lie without quitting your day job"
I could not agree with you more. Now, sine it is 50 mph winds and 15 degrees in Chicaog, I will not wait for a hybrid as it is to cold!!!!! But when the weather lightens up, I will follow your advice.
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bioburner 5:18PM (12/23/2007)
Carbon off-offsetting beleive in it or don't beleive in it. The point of the article is that you can offset 100 gallons of gasoline for $5 to $12 depending. The 12 bucks is way cheaper than buying the hybrid.
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marc 7:21PM (12/23/2007)
Simply doing what business does - lowest cost alternative. Give business a way out that is cheaper than actually dealing with it, and of course they will. And the public is led to believe not doing (by paying) is as useful as taking actual steps to minimize one's emissions.
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small-wee-wee 11:51PM (12/23/2007)
Business = Amoral.
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