The definition of sustainability is “improving the quality of human life within the carrying capacity of supporting ecosystems”(Wikipedia.org). A huge threat to Earth’s sustainability is the use of fossil fuels and through using fossil fuels, the dwindling supply of energy resources on Earth. Big business did not set their sights on petroleum until the late 1800’s, but when drilling began the business boomed and the world’s demand for oil skyrocketed. If Earth’s supply was first tapped roughly 130 years ago (with a limited supply) it is only a matter of time until the lack of petroleum becomes a problem. Once we get down to only our reserves not only gas prices will go up, but all petroleum products. This could cause economic collapse or even war over the reserves of petroleum. Also, without effective alternative energy sources there may an issue with electrical power, with the lack if fossil fuels.
There are a few actions being taken to ease and slow the inevitable depletion of our fossil fuels. The government is taking “energy audits” to figure out where people use the most energy, which portion is wasteful, and alter the application of energy accordingly. Another method to help stifle the depletion of fossil fuels is to come up with alternative energy sources. Such as hydrogen fueled cars or large wind farms, to provide a few examples. Hopefully the proper action will be taken to prevent all of the consequences.
Jerre Stallings
http://www.tetonvalleynews.net/news/article_241316c4-e207-11df-ae5a-001cc4c002e0.html
Jerre asked me to post this because he was having difficulties accessing his account.
While the wikipedia def. of sustainability is good, I do not want you to use wikipedia as a source--you may read the entry to get a general background but I want scientific/scholarly sources. I would also like to see a national source in addition to the local newspaper source you used.
ReplyDeletePlease learn how to insert working hyperlinks.
A good start. 9/10