8. Energy resources

Abstract

The dual assumptions, that abundant supplies of energy are necessary for economic growth and that energy demand grows exponentially while resources are finite, imply that energy, in addition to population and food supplies, is crucial to neo-Malthusian arguments. In recognition of the central importance of energy, this chapter examines estimates of world energy reserves in the context of continued exponential growth in consumption. It is concerned with the question of whether there will be a world fuel “crisis” in the foreseeable future, and if so, what its nature is likely to be.