Dear EarthTalk: Given the huge, ongoing oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, isn’t it high time the government put a stop to offshore oil drilling once and for all? Short of banning it altogether, what can be done to prevent explosions, leaks and spills moving forward? EarthTalk: The explosion of BP’s Deepwater Horizon drill rig on April 20 and the resultant oil spill now consuming coastal regions of the Gulf of Mexico could not have...

Dear EarthTalk: How does congestion toll pricing, used in some cities around the world, cut down on vehicle traffic and promote green-friendly public transit? —Bill Higley

Dear EarthTalk: What are the major environmental issues that our next president, be it Barack Obama or John McCain, will have to confront? —Melinda Barnes

Dear EarthTalk: Are sunscreens safe? Which ones do you recommend for protecting my skin from the sun without causing other health issues? —Bettina E.

Dear EarthTalk: Summer’s going to be a scorcher this year, and I’d like to know how I can keep cool indoors without running my energy-hogging air conditioners all the time. Any tips? —John McGovern