Fresh Air for Sale

The New York Times recently ran an article claiming that "carbon will be the world's biggest commodity market, and it could become the world's biggest market overall."
So someone finally found a way to make money out of selling fresh air! I guess it had to happen. I'm sure someone has already sold ice to the Eskimos.

ETS

I'm trying to get my head around the Emissions Trading Scheme. I mean I'd like to see emissions reduced - thats a "no-brainer" - but how will the ETS do that. As I understand it, nearly every New Zealander is going to be paying money. Its collected by the Government and given to people who plant forests, except the forest planters have sold their "credits" to others - who? To "emitters" I guess. So we have a money go round with Joe Blow consumer picking up the tab. But wait there's more.... Joe Blow taxpayer will have to top up whatever is collected from Joe Blow consumer. And what happens when the trees are cut down? Who pays for the loss of the carbon 'sink'? Where does the collected money go then? Do those who bought the credits loose them when the trees are gone? And how is all this going to save the planet? I presume the idea is that consumers will buy less petrol, power etc and so decrease carbon output. I remain sceptical.

Sewers and old sheds

I am constantly surprised by special interest groups who forget about common sense. They develop tunnel vision. A case in point is the movement to preserve the sheds on the wharves. After years of allowing the demolition of characterful historic buildings:
Partingtons Windmill, Victoria Arcade, Captain Cook Brewery, New Lynn Hotel, His Majesties Theatre Arcade, Newmarket Borough Council Chambers and numerous 19th century hotels for starters,
Aucklanders have decided to preserve some ugly rusty old sheds on the waterfront! Demolish the sublime but preserve the ridiculous.
For goodness sake - let the sheds go. But put some money and effort into ensuring the Ferry Building is preserved - something worth saving and very much at risk. Please use some COMMON SENSE.

Ever wondered?

Ever wondered what happened to common sense? Every day more examples of a total lack of common sense jump up and slap me in the face. I expect it is because I am getting older and my tolerance level is decreasing. I wonder "Why can't they SEE how completely irrational they are?". So I'm going to highlight examples each time I update my blog - mainly as an outlet for my frustration - and please add your own. It could be quite amusing at the very least.