There’s no way to alter our ways of life because there are no alternatives presented to us, and a handful of people choosing to not drive cars isn’t going to make any difference. Government needs to force big business to stop destroying the environment and create alternatives. It’s the only way. Nuclear power is also important.
There are many alternatives and changes we could make. A substantial portion of our population say they believe in climate change caused by humans. If all of those people were to walk and bike whenever possible, put their heat a couple degrees lower, go to bed earlier to reduce electricity usage, and make similar modifications, the reduction would be tremendous.
The idea that an individual or a handful of individuals can’t make a difference underlies a lot of our thinking in politics. It’s why a lot of people don’t vote. There is a real feeling of powerlessness. And I think part of it is really an excuse for not wanting to suffer inconvenience.
We do make certain righteous choices when others see that we’re doing it or relate to our own morals. Ethical vegans aren’t going to stop the slaughter of animals by not eating meat but that is what they would like to see happen. They can avoid partaking in the immoral practice and collectively reduce demand which results in fewer animals killed. People buy an electric car because it is tangible and gives the sense of moral practice. Simply making the choice to drive less could yield the same benefits of having an electric car but driving the same amount.
Turning your lights off and heat down don’t yield those same benefits. For all the complaints about the environment and global warming, it isn’t seen as a matter or morality or ethics. On Earth Day some corporate buildings go dark for an hour and then back to business as usual. But that is the kind of thing meant to impress and show real care.
Nuclear power is one promising source of energy but inspires fears greater than earthquakes for anyone living near one.