For years now, there’s been much talk about America’s dependence on oil, particularly oil that’s imported from other countries. Now, a new documentary examines the history of Big Oil, the daily and far-reaching impacts of our ever-increasing oil consumption, and potential solutions.
“PUMP is an inspiring, eye-opening documentary that tells the story of America’s addiction to oil, from its corporate conspiracy beginnings to its current monopoly today, and explains clearly and simply how we can end it – and finally win choice at the pump,” say the film’s promoters.
Consider these statistics from the Sierra Club:
- The US uses nearly 400 million gallons of oil every day moving people in automobiles, goods on freight truck, air travel, rail and transit.
- Cars and light trucks alone use nine million barrels of oil per day.
- Of the imported petroleum Americans consume, 68 percent is supplied by countries at “high risk” or “very high risk” for instability, which gives leverage to potential adversaries.
- Americans send over $1 billion abroad every day to pay for oil, which means lost jobs and more money in the hands of foreigners who we increasingly rely upon to finance our deficits.
- The US borrows money from the Chinese to buy oil from the Saudis, causing greater national debt and dependence on the goodwill of others to allow its economy to function.
PUMP features appearances by multiple automotive and petroleum industry movers and shaker including Tesla founder Elon Musk, known internationally for promoting the development of alternative fuels; John Hofmeister, founder and CEO at Citizens for Affordable Energy and former president of Shell Oil; and Luiz Inácio da Silva, Brazil’s president from 2003-2011. Among the alternatives that the film examines are biofuels, flex fuel vehicles, natural gas and battery electric powertrains.
“Today oil is our only option of transportation fuel at the pump,” the film’s promoters say. “Our exclusive use of it has drained our wallets, increased air pollution and sent our sons and daughters to war in faraway lands. PUMP shows us how through the use of a variety of replacement fuels, we will be able to fill up our cars – cheaper, cleaner and American made – and in the process, create more jobs for a stronger, healthier economy.“
PUMP opens in Los Angeles and New York theaters Sept. 19 and in Utah Sept. 26 before heading to the Zurich Film Festival Sept. 30. Wider release is expected in coming months. Will you see the film? Post your thoughts on the E3 Spark Plugs Facebook Fan Page. And do your part to help conserve oil by installing a set of E3 Spark Plugs in your ride. The patented DiamondFire technology means higher fuel efficiency, lower emissions and better performance.