As we learn more about our world, we are increasingly struck by the implications of our own personal decisions, including our buying decisions. I think of this often in a world where carbon footprints and air pollution are ever more sobering issues, especially as we ponder the dangers of climate change.
Today I was reminded of the ramifications of my purchases of consumer products and commodities from far away lands. Consider the pollution of cargo ships, most of which use the lowest quality of fuels known as marine heavy fuel aka “bunker fuel.” (Some even call it “liquid asphalt”, well know for its copious sulfur dioxide emissions.) Here’s a few articles on cargo ships and their pollution:
As I become aware of the serious ramifications of my personal choices, what are my responsibilities? What role should I play in curbing climate change, air pollution, and other problems of our day? What degree of concern represents a well-formed conscience and at what point does extreme concern become unhealthy obsession?