Yesterday whilst driving from Bucklands Beach to the Botany Town Centre (about 7 kilometres in heavy traffic) I had to stop on 3 occasions at pedestrian crossings. Not a problem normally, except on one occasion when those who were crossing were pushing their bikes. They were middle-aged men looking splendid in lycra and clearly on a mission to “save the planet”. How could I tell? Instead of the usual accompanying wave of “thank you” that most pedestrians give to acknowledge the inconvenience they may have caused, they scowled down at the stationary cars with the glare of sanctimonious disapproval as they sauntered slowly across. Having crossed they mounted their bikes and pedalled their way down the road in front of the traffic that had given way at the crossing.
It then suddenly dawned on me it was my responsibility to do my bit towards global warming. I thought: We can’t have several stationary vehicles, in both directions, burning fossil fuel whilst being immobilised at pedestrian crossings. The solution is simple. Remove all pedestrian crossings. Those who choose to not drive a vehicle thinking that this is their contribution towards saving the planet, let them sacrifice their time waiting for a break in the traffic. All they will be doing is breathing out carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. By their choosing to use a pedestrian crossing, the stationary vehicles that they have caused to give way are releasing nitrogen oxides into the atmosphere, which contribute to the formation of smog and acid rain.
Pedestrians and cyclists are clearly the main contributors to global warming. Without pedestrian crossings, we will be able to extend the life of the planet! Just a thought.
It is claimed that if we don’t halt climate change within twenty years the average temperature will increase by two degrees. Can you imagine living in Hamilton in twenty years’ time and having to cope with a temperature that is like Auckland’s today? Hamilton’s average temperature is currently two degrees lower than Auckland’s. No wonder the Chiefs are doing so well. The Blues are clearly victims of global warming.
