Low Prices for the Tank, High Prices for the Earth (Written by Elizabeth Muscari, 6th)

Summary: As we happily ring in 2015 with high hopes and  high expectations, something is low and America is happy about that, too.  Gas prices have been the lowest they've ever been in nine years and for those whose wallets are slimmer because of gas, this is extremely good news. Once a dreadful game for most citizens to see how fast we could drain our bank accounts while filling up the tank, is now one we await to see how low these prices can get. Yes, it seems too good to be true and in reality, it is. Companies will need to drill more, since gas will be in higher demand now that it is so cheap. The EnLink Midstream CEO, Barry Davis, can back this statement up. He predicts that the drill locations will become more and more frequently used which in all seriousness, will affect our environment. The prices take a swipe at our fossil fuels. We drive more and thus, use more fossil fuels. Remembering fifth grade social studies class, we can all recall our teachers drilling into our minds the universal and undeniable fact: fossil fuels cannot be replaced...ever. We may not be paying high prices for our gas, but we are definitely doing so with our irreplaceable resources. Maybe the expensive yet environmental-friendly grocery store, Whole Foods, has an unsaid saying that goes for more than just organic, environment-loving foods. In order to protect the environment, one must pay more, can work in more ways than just with food. The gas prices are low and cheap, but the effects will cost us. 

Analysis: This resembles our need for supply and demand. Industrialization is the root of this seeing as we have come from railroads to cars. Transportation is a key in America. Without it, we cannot spread products, messages, and help around as easily. On the other side, this also shows that we are an economic system that has been dependent on consumers since we began industrializing. Consumer spending represents 68% of the US economy. The oil industry, which benefits from higher prices, is much lower. But it's not just the USA, but more so a plethora of countries. There is a universal boost for global consumers but most countries are importers of oil, not exporters. The falling prices are unpredictable but can easily predict that oil will be in higher demand now that it's cheaper. People will drive places without hesitation. Cars will frequently return to gas stations. And the cycle will continue while Mother Nature continues to be drilled into for more and more of what we need. 

Written by Elizabeth Muscari, 6th

Courtesy of http://www.dallasnews.com/business/columnists/cheryl-hall/20150103-gas-price-glee-vs.-oil-reality.ece