The Facts
According to the Energy Institute’s World Energy report, oil, coal, and gas still accounted for the vast majority of energy consumption — 82% in 2022 — despite record growth in solar and wind power.
Monday’s report, published with consultancies KPMG and Kearny, shows that global energy consumption increased 1% last year, which is lower than 2021’s 5.5% rise, but 3% higher than pre-pandemic levels in 2019.
The Spin
Narrative A
Society's current rate of fossil fuel usage is unsustainable, and emissions must be dramatically reduced at all levels asap. Scientists have talked about the need for “net-zero” emissions for decades now while stating how dire the consequences of climate change are, but more needs to be done. While we haven’t made the necessary progress yet, "net zero emissions" is possible by 2050, and civilization can create a sustainable energy system that respects the planet without relying on fossil fuels.
Narrative B
Whether we like it or not, fossil fuels are necessary to maintain any semblance of a high-tech industrialized society, and the reckless pursuit of “net zero” emissions is not only unrealistic, but it is also dangerous. While fossil fuels have clear negatives that impact our environment, we have yet to find any suitable substitute that works on a global level and can replace them. The emotionally charged language in the climate change debate has led zealots to pursue causes that will completely alter modern civilization, and eliminating fossil fuels is a perfect example of that.
