Power Surge Movie Discussion

The proposed theory to solve the energy crisis is referred to as the wedge theory. The wedge theory basically states that we have to use seven of the fifteen available energies that can remove one billion tons of CO2 out of the atmosphere every year. One of the methods proposed is efficiency which can relate to how we use our energy, i.e. increasing mpg and emissions for cars. Another method is to triple the number of nuclear power plants of 50 years. Another idea is to clean coal plants and bury their CO2 emissions. Lastly, there is the obvious concept of using wind turbines and solar panels and other methods. Under the umbrella of these four methods lies all fifteen methods so the idea behind the wedge theory is that there lies many possible solutions which is what we need in order to solve a problem of this size. It is because of the idea that there are many possible solutions and, as Stewart Brand shows, we need to use them all that I believe this video accurately portrays how we need to go about finding a solution to this problem.

                                                     

This theory of the wedge is a physical representation of what people have thought for a long time, we need to use multiple technologies and enhance the ones we already have in order to bring about rapid change. There is no one solution or technology that, as of yet, is strong enough or will create a big enough impact that it will solve the energy crisis so we therefore must rely on multiple options. I especially like how the wedge theory breaks the problem down into smaller more easily solvable components. Instead of removing 7 billion tons of CO2 at one time it is easier to remove 1 billion tons of it 7 different ways. Then again, I am an engineer so naturally I would be inclined to solving a problem this way but still.

In terms of what the effects of using these energy crisis solving methods would be in relation to the environment, society, and economy, this video is lacking a bit. It obviously does an excellent job showing the impacts of the environment, but it virtually throws society and economy aside as the environment is the number one focus. Those that came up with these solutions and those that will implement them will however need to take a much deeper look into the societal and economic impacts certain strategies would have in order to determine how best to complete the wedge. Overall though I would say this video was definitely worth watching as it provided great insights into how to solve this extremely serious problem. The next step will be to begin implementing at least some of these methods before it is too late.