lorne, I, really, think that each nation should be unto its own up to a point. I do not know, but is the lumber industry not also run by large business in Canada? I agree that the lumber business in the US is controlled, mainly, by the large lumber, and paper, tycoons, and I don't like that any more than anyone else. I believe in business being able to prosper anywhere, but do not like the huge conglomerates that are motivated only by greed. If too much Canadian lumber is imported to the US, then there are families, and individuals here that will suffer. It takes individuals to do the work regardless of whatever machinery may be available. If Canadian lumber can be sold in the US strictly because of the subsidies of the government, then I don't think that is right, anymore than I thought it was right when the Japanese government gave huge subsidies to their auto industry in order to break into, and damage our own auto industry. But, oddly enough, I did not like it when the US auto industry was controlled by the "Big Three" which crushed competition, and innovations, like those offered by Preston Tucker.
What I would really like to see is a major move to alternatives to lumber for the bulk of a house. It is possible, and a modest price, to do so right now. In Florida, most of the houses are made from concrete cinder blocks, marble for the window sills, and some do, but more could, use aluminum studs. Not only does this type of construction improve the natural insulation to reduce utility costs, but is also a defense against termites. Those not familiar with concrete block construction, may not be aware that the blocks can be concealed in many ways to display whatever style one would wish. I myself prefer that the blocks be stuccoed, with Spanish arches along the front, and a roof of clay Spanish tile, but I have seen many traditional styles displayed using the blocks.
All nations of the world with forests, should reduce the amount of logging, or other destruction, not just the ones you mentioned. Brazil is probably the worst, and is destroying one of the largest rain forests, where most of the medical discoveries have been made, just to clear the land for other agricultural products. They do not seem to care what the forest offers them. Greed is rampant all over the world in industrial nations in any sort of business. I am all for a business making a profit in order to grow, and prosper, up to a point, but when a company becomes to huge to consider it's own employees, and it's effect on the rest of the world, there is a problem, IMO, and even though I would like to see the forests preserved, I am not going to go bonkers to save some spotted owl somewhere.
Some of the world's resources are beginning to dwindle, and it is time to look for alternatives because, even when these alternatives are found, or re-activated, it will take a goodly amount of time to bring them up to speed. Many think that the resources of the planet will last forever, and that is being totally myopic, considering the population growth. It is true that I drive an SUV, but in 39 months it has only been driver about 100 miles per month.
I did not know about the large oil supply you have in Canada. Where is it?? Are you guys hiding it?? :^) Turn on those pumps. I would much more rather buy oil from Canada, than those militant Arab nations.
We could have fresh water too if we would patrol, catch, and properly punish the polluters. It is a shame that we do not do more.
I think that Canada, and the US, will remain friends, but there will be some lovers' spats at times. :^) |
