In lieu of the mess BP has caused, how long can I go without my gas guzzling automobile, relying on my bike and public transportation only?

This would depend largely on your lifestyle and distance to work, shopping and other necessary destinations you may have to go to. Another factor is time. Do you have the time to spend transiting on public transportation or riding a bike to and from your objectives.

Also is public transportation available and reliable in your area. On a bicycle the average speed might be around 12 mph for sustained distance traveling although you might get more or less depending on your fitness and your bike and the distance you need to travel as well as terrain and added load. Public transportation can take several hours depending on distance to your destination and number of stops as well as what connections you may need to make.

Also for longer trips you may want to compare costs. I travel occasionally to Orlando, Fl which is approx an hour and fifteen mins away at average speed of 65 mph. On a bike that would take at least 5 hours provided I could maintain 15 mph in the heat and humidity we have in Florida.As for public transportation the only option is Greyhound and last time I checked it was $18 to $24 per person each way whereas using my car it would cost approx $20 round trip including tolls.

Now if instead of eliminating the use of your car you use bicycle, walking, and public transportation for the local area and use your car for longer distances, inclement weather, transporting large purchases and emergencies I would say you could go on indefinitely.

It depends upon where you live and work. I went almost 20 years with only a bicycle in New Orleans. But, after Hurricane Katrina I moved to higher ground and now the commute is much too far.

You can also switch to an ethanol or biodiesel car in some areas.

I cant really gove you an answer,but what I can give you is a way to a solution, that is you have to find the anglde that you relate to or peaks your interest. A good paper is one that people get drawn into because it reaches them ln some way.As for me WW11 to me, I think of the holocaust and the effect it had on the survivors, their families and those who stood by and did nothing until it was too late.