One of the perks of being a part of Cool People Care is the chance to hear about great and inspiring ideas, no matter what shape, size, or age they come in. Case in point: today's interviewee, George Merhoff, who at just 12-years-old is doing his part to protect the planet. His idea? Get people to drive just five miles-per-hour slower on average as a way to conserve fuel and carbon emissions. His idea has now taken the form of a public awareness campaign whereby those promising to "Drive Minus Five" can display their commitment in the form of a bumper sticker. George spoke with us via email about why he's doing this and what his big dream for the world is.
CPC: Did you have an 'ah ha!' moment that led you to create Drive Minus Five? Describe the instant you knew that you had to create this campaign.
George: You know I really didn't have an 'ah ha' moment; my thoughts just kind of led up to it. It seemed, at the time, there was just so much commotion for the environment. I really didn't know much about it at the time but I really wanted to do something that a 12-year-old kid could do to help. The campaign and the bumper sticker were just kind of the next logical steps.
CPC: What drives your passion for the environment? Why do you want to encourage others to make the planet better?
George: My care for the environment is because it is the one thing we all share. We all live on this one planet and we need to keep it in good condition. We also need to just live a little slower sometimes, too.
CPC: Share with us the idea behind the bumper stickers. How can people get one?
George: The idea behind the bumper sticker is simple. I thought to myself: what's a catchy slogan that will help spread the campaign and that people will be willing to put on their car? Drive Minus Five. You can buy a bumper sticker on our website if you're ready to take the pledge.
CPC: What is your big dream for the world?
George: I hope that everyone will treat our environment with care and slow down just a little.