With so much green news passing through our eyes and ears on a daily basis, it’s kind of surprising (and sad) to remember that many of the issues we talk about today, were discussed decades ago. In fact, some of the technology that we think is so cool and innovative has actually been around in some form or another for quite some time.

Take for instance this retro look back at a news story with Jack Nicholson touting the benefits of a hydrogen car (with the hydrogen made from solar energy) and his reaction to driving around in one.

“It’s like a standard Chevy. I backed it up, you know, because the last time the auto industry tried to destroy an independent industrialist, they said a “tucker” wouldn’t back up. Remember that?” Well no, Jack, no exactly. Nicholson went on further, “If nothing else, this will revolutionize car-assisted suicide. Instead of carbon monoxide poisoning, you’ll just get a steam bath…”

The video shows the car running on hydrogen and Nicholson rambling off numbers regarding pollution reduction and the effects such a vehicle might have on international politics. Who knew the guy was such a treehugger?

Could you imagine how different our world might be if we had embraced such alternative technology more than 28 years ago? It was there–but we failed to act. Can we afford another 28 years of sitting on our hands? Check out the video below:

Thanks to Linton from Hugg! for the tip!

Categories: People.

About Michael dEstries

Michael has been blogging since 2005 on issues such as sustainability, renewable energy, philanthropy, and healthy living. He regularly contributes to a slew of publications, as well as consulting with companies looking to make an impact using the web and social media. He lives in Ithaca, NY with his family on an apple farm.

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