1960s Quote by Lester R. Brown
“Yet, most of the readily accessible reserves of oil formed over hundreds of millions of years will be consumed within a single generation, spanning the years from 1960 to 1995.”
About This Quote
Source Report: Worldwatch Institute, 1995
Finite fossil fuel reserves, formed over geological time, will be exhausted within a single human lifespan if consumption continues.
In simple terms: Oil will run out quickly if we keep using it.
Key Takeaway
Accelerate transition to sustainable energy sources.
Themes
environment
resource depletion
energy
Mood
urgent
serious
Type
environmental
policy
When to use this quote
- energy policy
- industrial planning
- education campaigns
Key Concepts
sustainability
intergenerational justice
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies reduce reliance on non‑renewable resources?
- What innovations could extend resource availability?
A Different Perspective
The statement may underestimate future technological advances in extraction.
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