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EVs aren’t a panacea
for CO2 emissions
Re: “It’s time for Californians to go all in on fully electric vehicles” (Page A6, Oct. 15).
While completely electric cars create less carbon emissions than hybrids and gasoline vehicles, converting to EVs may be better for the environment but we must consider the claim in full before going all in.
The intensive manufacturing of today’s EVs can produce around 80% more emissions during production compared to building gasoline vehicles, due to the main component of the battery being lithium, and the extensive process of mining the material. Although electric vehicles emit less CO2 than other cars over their life cycle, lithium-ion batteries wind up in landfills since recycling them is harder than creating new ones.
If carbon emissions were the only factor to consider, then it’s safe to go all in. However, if a more holistic approach were to be taken, considering the water and soil contamination seen during the lithium-mining process, then there are serious concerns to consider about electric vehicles.
Kasey Nguyen
Fremont
Nair offers fresh voice
for Fremont board
In a district craving fresh energy, 18-year-old Rinu Nair is emerging as a dynamic candidate in the Fremont Unified School District Area 4 trustee race. A former student and wellness advocate, Rinu brings an often-overlooked perspective — one from inside the classroom. Having just graduated, she intimately understands the pressures students face, especially in mental health and academics.
With the current board lacking a student voice, Rinu’s candidacy is a breath of fresh air. Her focus on wellness, education and student needs sets her apart from traditional candidates. For those seeking true student representation, Rinu is the bold, new voice FUSD needs.
Jigar Shah
Fremont
Keep Wendy Reicher
on Acalanes board
Wendy Reicher is a believer, a caring, smart energizing force, and a champion for our teens.
As a parent, friend and counselor, she teaches kids to advocate for themselves, to get summer jobs, to take charge of their future. She’s guided me and other frustrated parents through 504s, IEPs, SATs, ACTs, WUE, APs and every other set of numbers and initials flung our way. She’s keenly aware of our budget challenges and ready to face them head-on. Wendy has a pragmatic way of acknowledging what is and a sharp mind for creative problem-solving to determine what could be.
I call Wendy my “spark plug,” and I know I’m just one of many who feel this way about her, who have benefited from her care, tenacity and fire. Our board needs its spark plug. Vote for Wendy Reicher.
Beverly Jane Peatross
Lafayette
Give Pleasant Hill’s
Measure S a no vote
Please vote no on Measure S, a $77 million bond to further fund the Pleasant Hill Recreation and Park District, already one of the best-funded districts of its size in California.
The bonds, if approved, will increase property taxes for everyone in the district, at a time when many of us are challenged, and require a repayment of $126 million over 30 …read more
Source:: The Mercury News – Entertainment
