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Florida Could Learn From Norway

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By ELENA KOURCHENKO

Published: January 22, 2008

After spending two weeks on Indian Rocks Beach during the Christmas holidays and reading Mike Salinero's article "How Green Are We?" (Dec. 22) my answer would have to be "Not nearly green enough." I grew up in Pinellas County, but I live in Norway.

In Norway, the environment and climate change are hot topics. There is an ongoing debate about what Norway should be doing nationally and internationally to meet the key challenge of the 21st century. Aside from Salinero's article, the topic seemed absent from local and national media during my stay.

My first impression of Tampa Bay was: cars, cars, cars. The sheer volume was staggering. Not only the number of cars, but the type. Huge, gas-guzzling vehicles everywhere and most carrying only the driver.

Much needs to be done so that sidewalks and bike paths are more visible and accessible. I met irritated glares from drivers as they stopped for me and my family crossing Gulf Boulevard over pedestrian crossways. Why aren't pedestrians and cyclers prioritized? Why don't they have the right of way?

Are households and business prioritizing recycling? At my home in Norway, we sort plastic, paper, glass and redemption value bottles and cans. In Sweden and Norway, fast food restaurants, such as McDonald's and Burger King, have their patrons sorting their trash into recycling bins after finishing a meal.

Meeting the challenges posed by global warming requires the participation of everyone at all levels. It means putting up with some inconveniences. It means using our bikes and feet more. It means walking to catch the bus. It means leaving the car in the garage more often. It means buying smaller, fuel-efficient cars. It means fortifying public transportation.

I hope I am wrong. Was my stay to short? Was the picture I got inaccurate? Florida is probably one of the most vulnerable states in the nation when it comes to global warming. Please, Floridians, prove me wrong.

Elena Kourchenko lives in Norway.

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