Energy

Abstract

Economic development in the 20th century was fuelled by plentiful cheap energy, but it has been clear for decades that the energy outlook is now different (Lowe 1977). There is disagreement about the peak of world oil production, but the evidence suggests it has already passed (Hallett and Wright 2011). The scientific basis for 'peak oil' was established more than 50 years ago (Hubbert 1956). The energy source that now powers almost all our transport will certainly become more expensive and supply interruptions are possible. The near-term future will require a new approach to transport. Public subsidies have encouraged road freight, rather than rail and coastal shipping, while inept urban planning has encouraged single-person car use for city trips. These wasteful practices are squandering limited petroleum fuels.