Richard Branson proposes steps on reducing Russian oil use

Chestnut

Tizliz Consumerism is a hungry monster. Most people with money are consuming more than they should especially on technology and transport. But also on excessive purchases of things they don't need like shoes, bags, clothing. However, the problem is that consumerism is now part of our society and people rely on it, so if it slowed down then businesses would fold and vast numbers of people would be out of work.
A typical example is the Beckham wedding which was hugely extravagant, but it was pointed out how many businesses this wedding supported with all the flowers, food, catering etc. there is no easy answer.

This is a dilemma when buying veg from outside Europe. Do you worry about airmiles, or putting the growers out of business.

I am with him on cutting speed limits. I have reduced my speed where I can and I may arrive a few minutes later, but can get in excess of 50mpg if I do. It surprises me how many cars flash past (I’m not a crawler btw) well over the speed limit, seemingly mindless of fuel consumption.

Some dual carriageways near to me have reduced speeds to 50 for environmental reasons where they run alongside housing estates, which I think is admirable.
Better for the environment and fuel conservation BUT
bit tricky taking lessons on fuel consumption from Branson!

Tizliz Consumerism is a hungry monster. Most people with money are consuming more than they should especially on technology and transport. But also on excessive purchases of things they don't need like shoes, bags, clothing. However, the problem is that consumerism is now part of our society and people rely on it, so if it slowed down then businesses would fold and vast numbers of people would be out of work.
A typical example is the Beckham wedding which was hugely extravagant, but it was pointed out how many businesses this wedding supported with all the flowers, food, catering etc. there is no easy answer.

I have several times commented that a reduction in use of fuels is necessary but not had any support. I don’t mean just turn the heating down, but less travel, fewer holidays, less consumerism etc. this is coming naturally here due to the cost of living but big companies don’t seem to get it - leaving lights on, big company cars. Why is it necessary to have a new phone every year? Sometimes I feel like a voice in the wilderness.

Yes, I think we all have to do what we can to ensure Russia isn’t the only source of oil.
I’m bumping your thread as it deserves more attention than it’s getting.

I'm hoping others can add to this as, not surprisingly, it is getting less coverage than it might today.

I would be happy to do whatever I can to help put Germany in a position to stop using Russian oil. If it has a good affect on the uncertainty in the UK's, and our allies' economy, so much the better.

Thank you DaisyAnne, I’ll have a look.