Representative Ed Orcutt (R � Kalama) - a braying ninny
A perfect example of why our "political betters" need to get a real life.
From the
Seattle Bike Blog:
State lawmaker defends bike tax, says bicycling is not good for the environment
Representative Ed Orcutt (R � Kalama) does not think bicycling is environmentally friendly because the activity causes cyclists to have �an increased heart rate and respiration.�
This is according to comments he made in an email to a constituent who questioned the wisdom of a new bike tax the legislature is considering as part of a large transportation package.
We spoke with Rep. Orcutt to confirm the email�s authenticity and to get further clarification.
�You would be giving off more CO2 if you are riding a bike than driving in a car,� he said. However, he said he had not �done any analysis� of the difference in CO2 from a person on a bike compared to the engine of a car (others have).
�You can�t just say that there�s no pollution as a result of riding a bicycle.�
First of all, Carbon Dioxide is not a pollutant. It, literally, is the gas of life. Without CO2, there would be no plant life on this planet. None. It is a key element of photosynthesis.
Next, the amount of CO2 given off is minuscule compared to a single driver (still breathing but not as much) driving a 2,000 pound vehicle.
The wonderful people at Slashdot
picked up the story -- the comments are a fun read.
My fave?
By his own reasoning, Rep Ed Orcutt needs to lower his CO2 production by keeping his mouth shut. He would do both the planet and his colleagues a favor.
Word...
Posted by DaveH at March 4, 2013 9:53 AM