The gas prices have gone up almost $4 between 2020 and 2022 due to the lack of crude oil and fossil fuels. 

The “Daily Journal Online” explains that Manuel Santana, a Bronx resident who works as an EMT, said that just a few months ago, filling up his tank cost him up to $40 alone just to get to work. “It’s frustrating,” he says as he pays to get gas and sees the $6 a gallon prices. “Honestly, there’s not much you can do about it.”

In May of 2020, the gas prices were as low as $1.90 per gallon, and with California being the most expensive state to charge $5 per gallon, the national average is now at its peak at about $4.17 per gallon states Bill Chappell from NPR Public Radio. 

Why is this happening?

On Thursday, February 24, 2022, Russia invaded Ukraine. In support of Ukraine, America placed sanctions on Russian oil. We have significantly cut down on the amount of oil we purchase, which has caused the prices to skyrocket. 

What is planned to happen ahead of us?

The sanctions that the United States has put against Russia likely will not be lifted until the war ends. Prices are also expected to jump this coming summer if this is an ongoing problem. Carl Aldinger from “News-Cat” states that, according to the MAHB, the world’s oil reserves will run out by 2052 while natural gas reserves will run out by 2060 

The effects of COVID-19-related lockdowns in 2020 and 2021 are reflected in the general increase in inflation. Production and consumption are expected to keep price levels high in the coming years. 

What can you do to save money?

We can start by looking at our driving habits and possibly cutting down the places we go and how often we travel. Instead of going to the grocery store three times a week we can go once a week and get everything we need. Rather than taking two cars, take one, and save the gas by driving with other people. Electric cars can also be another alternative for people who are in a position to give up their gas car.