Andrew Simms, policy director and head of the climate change program for the New Economics Foundation in England, presents his argument on the impact SUVs have on our roads and l the air we breathe. “Would you buy a car like this? “. The title alone gives an in-depth idea of what the article will cover (vehicles). “They clog the streets and clutter the pages of weekend color supplements. Sport utility vehicles or SUVs have become distinctive of middle class aspirations” (Simms 542). Simms' opening statement not only gives his opinion on how SUVs are the new trend, but also paints a picture of what we see every day driving on our roads. Simms also compares the gap between image and reality of the tobacco industry to that of SUVs; stating that the cause and consequences of climate change resemble smoking and cancer. Simms' comparison of SUVs to cigarettes shows how dangerous he believes SUVs are. Simms believes the SUVs we've come to love are dangerous and polluting. Simms describes how harmful he believes SUVs are with a quote, destined to become, "one of the most common causes of death and disability in the world, before tuberculosis, HIV, and war" (qtd. in Simms 542). This is a very strong statement; so strong that it causes the reader to question the source. It also promotes an emotional appeal to the reader. Death, war and HIV are very serious issues; Comparing them to SUVs requires caution. Next Simms addresses how the global warming conference in two weeks causes the urgency of new thinking about SUVs. This statement shows Simms' concerns regarding global warming and the effects of SUVs. It also shows his need to inform. Then Simms presents his solution: “So SUVs shouldn't now… center of paper… countries Simms assumes readers will feel that it's time for America to recognize the SUV problem, too; and also take action. Finally Simms concludes his argument with his labeling solution. Simms proposes setting a threshold guideline; which could be set to trigger labeling when efficiency drops below a certain threshold. “Like those for cigarettes, warnings could cover 30-50 percent of the surface of vehicles” (Simms 544). Simms also says this method won't stop SUVs from being driven, but would force them to accept the consequences of their actions and help address education about global warming and road safety. In other words, it would help the industry exit the market. denial. Simm's statement shows that he has a realistic view of his solution. His conclusion also strengthened his idea, promoted thinking, and gave readers insight.
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