1992 Series 1 Number 2 Page 1
Is Oil an Unlimited Resource?
In March, 1992, Ian Nalda, was a student in environmental science at Carleton U. He was an engineer who had served in the Australian military.
In this paper, Mr. Nalder reviewed data for oil production and use, and proven and probable reserves of oil.
He pointed out that the data are much more difficult to interpret than we usually understand. Often, we focus on the wrong data. We need to focus on ultimately recoverable resources. Speculatively, we also need to factor in increases in production capacity.
We also have difficulty taking into account the varying rates at which we use oil (and other resources).
He concluded that, no matter what, oil will indeed eventually be exhausted as a resource useful to humanity.
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