Wild with Sarah Wilson
COLLAPSE SERIES: Nate Hagens - On the “Great Simplification”
Aug 6, 2024
In this engaging discussion, Nate Hagens, a global leader in energy systems and director at the Institute for the Study of Energy & Our Future, tackles critical issues around the sustainability of our economic models. Hagens argues that green growth is a myth and explores the shortcomings of electric vehicles. He emphasizes the imminent risks of energy depletion and the necessity for societal simplification. Drawing on updated predictions, he warns of potential collapse by 2040, while advocating for a reevaluation of our relationship with energy and our environment.
53:11
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Quick takeaways
- The unrealistic expectation of green growth solutions fails to address the deeper issues of overconsumption and fossil fuel reliance.
- Transitioning towards a 'Great Simplification' emphasizes simplicity, resilience, and community connections to adapt to upcoming societal changes.
Deep dives
The Limitations of Green Growth
The expectation that a green growth model can solve climate issues has been widely discussed, but it is increasingly seen as unrealistic. While renewable energy sources like solar and wind offer hope, they still rely heavily on fossil fuels and do not address the underlying problems of overconsumption and economic growth. In fact, the rise of green technology has often led to increased energy consumption, as seen with electric vehicles that can create more demand for energy overall. The fundamental challenge lies in the reality that a transition to renewables does not equate to a decrease in fossil fuel usage or emissions on a global scale.
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