How much do you care about pre emissions

[JackDaniels1982]

Yes, I knew exactly what you were referring to. None of us got to vote on it either.... but at least we can vote in/out the politicians that get us involved (note that the biggest polluters in the world don't partake do they...)

Regarding recycling: it's not even financially feasible to recycle plastic bottles. Reclaiming rare earth metals encased in plastic won't happen... they will become hazardous waste.

I appreciate you recognizing that we elect representatives, which may not act the way any individual necessarily would. In my mind, the countries with the resources and the ones "everyone doesn't hate/fear" are the ones involved with the UNs initiative.

Although I agree with your plastic recycling not being economical, I do feel the same way as with the environmental controls on machinery, that the burden needs to be realized by someone - and the consumer may be the only realistic choice. In Ontario, we pay upfront for tire and electronics recycling when we buy them. As such, I can take a worn out tire to any tire shop for "free" and proper disposal.

I'd also point out we recycle our cars now for iron, and they are littered with plastic, so I do think more and more batteries will get recycled. I am optimistic for the future and currently rebuilding batteries seems big.

I do feel a bit like, we all resented our parents as we were growing up for the rules they imposed on us, but it was always for our own good.... or that was their intentions. No one is perfect, but I do feel we are doing our best, although there are failures from individuals, corporations and governments/politicians. I'd like to say there are more successes however.

 

[MarblemountLane]

“Same cost” includes cost of maintenance and breakdown repairs. I think simpler is often cheaper. As a retired guy on a fixed income, I look for lower cost, much lower. My tractor is 65 years old. It does what I want, cost less than 1/10 of what a newer smaller tractor would run, can be maintained at home with simple tools (as opposed to hiring a technician) and will even survive an EMP. I also have a 1982 diesel pickup and think my 1986 gas F250 is a bit too new. I would not have anything newer than mid 90’s, will never use DEF, and will NEVER buy a new car.


If I strike it rich, I ‘ll be using OLDER cars and equipment. Someone “in the business” might have other considerations. But old and easily maintained machinery makes sense for Joe Average.