As the price of gas rises you may think of replacing your old car with a higher mileage new car. Last post I talked about what it takes to get your money back if gas prices are your only criteria. Another important point concerns the impact a new car has on the environment. Think of what happens when you purchase a brand new car from a dealer. His inventory is depleted so he places an order for another car, the factory places orders for all the parts needed for production of another car, suppliers place orders with steel mills, plastic companies, glass manufacturers, etc. Mining, cutting, drilling, smelting all kick in to supply the world with another brand new car. Tire companies, electronic component manufacturers, leather suppliers all begin the process again to get that new car built.
Now, what happens when you buy a nice used car that has already had its impact on the earth accounted for. Not much. No one digs another hole, cuts another tree or kills another cow. They just go out and clean up another used car that's been waiting for a new home.
No additional damage, no chain reaction, just a good home for a nice used car that's been waiting for you all the time.
As you pass the hundreds of used car lots on your way to work or school today, think of all the great, existing cars out there just waiting for you to give them a chance. You might even learn a little car repair on your own!
