About 70 percent of those surveyed in 16 nations worldwide believe oil is running out and think their governments should stop acting on the assumption that oil can remain a primary energy source, according to WorldPublicOpinion.org. In Asia, 97 percent of South Koreans agree with this view, in France 91 percent, and here in the U.S. 57 percent.

Meanwhile, oil prices have risen almost 100% in the U.S. in the last year alone, and are up 1,200% over the last decade. CEC is carefully tracking the 'peak exports' debate, a term that refers to the fact that major exporters such as Russia, Iran, Venezuela, Saudi Arabia and Mexico are already reducing their oil exports because of strong domestic oil demand. Later this month, CEC will hold an invitation-only meeting with tri-county government and business leaders to focus on community planning and emergency preparedness in the event that we continue to see drastic increases in energy costs and/or reductions in supply.

» For more information about peak oil and "peak exports," read Senior Energy Associate Michael Chiacos' latest op-ed piece in CEC's Pressroom HERE

Ever wondered what the most energy-efficient means of human travel on our planet is? The answer is actually the humble bicycle! Chapter 3 of CEC's energy blueprint explainss the almost 20% energy savings that we could achieve in Santa Barbara by ramping up our commitment to more efficient modes of alternative transportation such as bicycling. To celebrate such an efficient (and fun) mode of transportation, the Santa Barbara Bicycle Coalition is organizing Bike Week.

Since 1999, SB Bicycle Coalition has brought us Bike Week to share the physical, environmental and cost benefits of biking. May 17-25 you can join in the Bike Week festivities. Many of the most popular activities are returning--Bike to School Day, Bike to Work Day, and the Fifth Annual Bike Week Celebration--along with some fun new activities such as Bike to the Merc, a group ride to the Mercury Lounge for a 'bike-in' outdoor movie event!

» Learn more about all the fun Bike Week activities on CEC's Event Calendar HERE

It is often said that wisdom comes with age, but there is something to be said for the clarity of youth. On April 23rd, the City of Santa Barbara’s General Plan development trends public workshops was an uplifting event. This night-time meeting, lasting almost four hours, was the host to over 90 people (half could qualify as “young adults” including three pre-teens who weren’t afraid to speak their minds). The public came together to debate housing, transportation, community character, and living within our resources. Young and old, students and pillars of the community alike discussed what it means to be a sustainable community for the next 20 years.

But this was just the beginning, no matter you past involvement, remain active; attend a City Council meeting, voice your opinion at the policy preferences workshop, write a letter, or check out the You Plan Santa Barbara website. Keep a watch out for Action Alerts from CEC on future meetings.

“We do not inherit the Earth from our parents; we borrow it from our children.” – Antoine de Saint Exupery