D.C. CUTS CARBON FOR OBAMA-RAMA

D.C. cuts back on carbon for Obama inauguration
Richard Simon and Jill Zuckman, January 11, 2009 (Chicago Tribune via Baltimore Sun)

“For the inauguration of a president who promised to be a friend of the environment, what would you expect but carbon-neutral inaugural balls, hybrid Lexuses, organic menus and valet bicycle parking?

“…Two Green Inaugural Balls are planned, including one featuring a green carpet made from - what else? - recycled rug. Official invitations to the Jan. 20 inauguration are being printed on recycled paper. The homeless will be handed unsellable furs…Nearly every imaginable group is planning an event to promote a cause.

“The greening of the inauguration is drawing a special effort, because Obama has made "green" projects a centerpiece of his economic stimulus plan and is expected to highlight the environment in his inaugural address.

“The Environmental Protection Agency has provided a liaison to the Presidential Inaugural Committee to advise on "best practices" …

“Attendees are being encouraged to carpool or ride public transit, even in evening gowns and tuxedos. If they must drive, they are being encouraged to drive a hybrid vehicle or purchase carbon offsets.

“Organizers of a number of balls plan to use energy-efficient lighting…Some of the floats in the inaugural parade are being recycled from past parades, including a 60-foot-long, 24-foot-tall American flag float built for Ronald Reagan's 1985 inauguration…

“Not everyone's buying it, though…noting the huge carbon footprint that millions of people will leave…”