The article "Windows of opportunity," Aug. 9, described the increase of drive-through windows and how they have become a staple of American life.
We are going in the wrong direction. More drive-throughs mean more engines idling and the problems that idling causes.
First, engine idling pollutes the air. In the United States, idling adds 34.5 million tons of greenhouse gas annually to the atmosphere, a major cause of climate change.
Second, idling increases rates of asthma and other respiratory illnesses. This is especially harmful to children.
Third, engine idling costs money by wasting fuel. And we all know how expensive gas is these days.
An alternative to idling is to park your car, walk inside, conduct your business and then go back to your car. You'll also get some exercise.
Next time you're at McDonald's, Starbucks, CVS, etc., think twice before going through the drive-through.
Becky Raymond
Averill Park