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So we populate the planet to the tune of 6.5 billion people, coupled with energy demands of 200 mbd of fossil fuels, approach peak oil and realize global warming is upon us, then start to get real serious about sustainability. Kind of like termites eating a piece of wood that's floating out to sea. Sort of looks daunting doesn't it? Maybe the whole thing can be turned around. I suppose first realizing the problems is the first step to solving them. I want to be positive. Really I do. Please, give me a reason to think this runnaway train will have a happy continuance.
I suppose first realizing the problems is the first step to solving them. I want to be positive. Really I do. Please, give me a reason to think this runnaway train will have a happy continuance.
I cannot currently see much reason for optimism. At this point we are still at the starting gate. The vast majority of the world, including the governments and industry leaders, does not realize there is any problem and are proceeding as if there are infinite resources that will sustain infinite population growth and infinite economic growth. It appears we will have to peak in something, whether oil, or food production, or fresh water usage, before step 1 - realization that there is a problem - occurs.
However, there is one thing that is a source of some hope - wind energy. Although still a small percentage (1% of so) of electrical production, it has been growing at outstanding rates for 15 or so years. Solar is also promising and there is reason to be optimistic about energy from ocean waves and ocean currents.