Make clean cars, please

2003 August 24, Sunday, 2:30 a.m.

Subject: THE CLEAN CAR PLEDGE AND INDUSTRY CHALLENGE

I don’t even know who this was e-mailed to by Environmental Defense’s Action Network, and I didn’t modify their letter at all.  This isn’t one of my prouder moments in internet activism.

Dear [ Decision Maker ] ,

Next time I shop for a new car or truck, I pledge to buy the greenest vehicle available that meets my needs and fits my budget.  In particular, I would like to buy a vehicle which meets the Clean Car Standard for fuel efficiency, low emissions, and clean production.

Please give me that choice.  I challenge you to offer cars and trucks that take a big step forward in environmental performance by meeting or exceeding the following criteria:

1. 50% more fuel efficient than other vehicles in their class;
2. California's stringent tailpipe emission standards (SULEV);
3. Cleanly manufactured using non-toxic recyclable materials.

Thank you.

Sincerely,
Benjamin Melançon
33 Fisher Street
Natick, MA   01760