The Price of Gas

During the last month or so, there has been much public comment in my local area regarding the price of gas, which is generally the highest price in our region. Some have suggested boycotting gas stations as a way to force the price of gas lower. This is not likely to work for the following reason: demand for gasoline in the U.S. and worldwide is at an all time high. If demand for fuel decreases in our local area, suppliers will simply shift those supplies to areas where demand remains high. Thus, the result of a gas boycott will be a reduction in local gas supply, leaving prices at their present high level. Even a long-term reduction in demand locally or in the U.S. will not force gas prices lower. If U.S. demand falls, supplies will shift to those nations where demand remains high. Thus, long-term decline in U.S. demand for gas will not lower prices, it will simply shrink domestic supplies. The lesson to be learned from this observation is that low gas prices are gone forever. Not using as much gasoline is the only way to avoid its high cost - so start walking or riding your bicycle or car pooling. Since I have adjusted my lifestyle, I have learned that I am not as dependent on my car as I thought I was. I need to plan my days more efficiently, but that is actually something of a benefit in a very busy life! You can do it, too!