The Oil Drum: Europe

BBC Two aired a programme late Tuesday (30/05/06) night considering a "what if the oil runs out" scenario, despite the title I don't recall the word 'if' being used much. Whilst disappointingly not mentioning peak oil by name the subject was addressed reasonably well. Part documentary, part drama it took place in the run up to 2016 by which time we were beyond peak. Fuel prices were high, businesses were failing, oil companies were drilling (unsuccessfully) at the ends of the earth, crime and violence were increasing, the SUV was stranded and for sale, groceries were expensive, poorer people couldn't heat their homes...

Matt Simmons and former Saudi Arabian Minister of Oil, Sheikh Yamani are featured in the common talking head role.

It's encouraging to see this subject addressed on the BBC, a shame it was shown at 11:20pm but still an important step in the right direction regarding raising public awareness.

More information here: If... The Oil Runs Out

Who else saw it?

EDIT Wednesday May 31, 2006 at 11:32 PM GMT

TOD member Sangiovese has kindly provided this scan from the Daily Mail newspaper discussing the programme:

Click to enlarge.

Sadly I expect Paterson's opinions aren't all that far from those of the general public.