We have to start on fuel transition

Sir, – It seems that most campaigners in favour of fossil fuels have very shortterm memories.

Clark Cross accuses me of having a new, less dogmatic approach. The only dogmatic thing I have said is that fossil fuels are a diminishing resource and the extent of scientific opinion and researched fact is that since the industrial revolution we have modified our atmosphere.

I have always also pointed out the transition process which has to accept we cannot just stop oil and coal quickly.

Clearly he has not read

what I have frequently stated and, as usual, completely ignores the main point.

Probably because accepting that fossil fuels will run out goes against their arguments of “carry on as we are”.

The facts that I have pointed out are that our burning of fossil fuels for energy contributes to an increase in atmospheric CO2, acidification of the sea among other detrimental effects, and of course they will run out.

Perhaps these “deniers” should find out what “fossil” means and where they come from, as they are a finite mineral resource.

So the question remains unanswered – what is

their solution for when these eventually become economically exhausted and we still need energy?

I have never said running out is imminent. It obviously takes time, as it equally takes a long time to put in place alternatives.

During this transition we will of course be reducing our dependence.

While big fossil consumers continue to poison the atmosphere it is true that our contribution amounts to very little.

But we all live on the same planet and it seems that the deniers’ argument is no more than why should we bother when it is the “big-boys wot dun it!”

They therefore help the big boys continue.

The wider benefits of transitioning away from fossil fuels are that we have to start sometime, early adopters invariably gaining an economic and societal advantage, and we will end up with less atmospheric pollution.

Yes there are issues to be addressed not least the other minerals needed for increased electrification.

But, again, the sooner we ramp up the efforts all the better.

Nick Cole.

Meigle.

Lorna Slater – a tenner on her winning an award.