How long before we use up the Earths resources like oil and minerals at the rate we're digging them out?

Answer 1

Fossil fuels are renewable but they renew themselves at such a slow rate that for our purposes it means nothing - fossil fuels take millions of years to form. We don't need to worry too much about running out though, because of the economy of the situation.

The thing is, there is still coal and oil out there, but the more we use the harder it is to get to it. For example, Britain's coal mines closed down in the 80's not because the coal had run out, but because it was cheaper to extract coal elsewhere. As fossil fuels become more scarce, the prices will rise, and previously uneconomic reserves will be mined.

Another consequence of scarcity will be a stronger investment in alternative fuels, such as wind and solar power, not from an eco-hippy standpoint but a pragmatic one.

The worrying issue with fossil fuels is not that they will run out, but the environmental consequences of using them - destruction to ecosystems through mining and waste products such as CO2.

Answer 2

We will never run out of fossil fuels, They will just become so costly that we will need to switch to alternative fuels. Imagine oil costing $1000 a barrel.

Answer 3

Don't worry about the earth and its resources. The Bible says the earth is the Lord's and the fullness thereof.

Answer 4

Mother nature has a built in Air and fossil fuel recycle system and it is working just fine. That means we will never run out of fuel.

Answer 5

Most will be in another 500 years, but you won't be able to live to see it..

Answer 6

Not long,then its ENDSVILLE.!