On Monday 23rd September, the Epsom College Economics and Enterprise Society organised and attended a lecture by Peter Mather on energy in the future and how it will affect us, not only politically and socially but also economically. He spoke of how the government is going to have to organise its budget in the future to address the issues of energy, not only with investment in renewable sources but also dealing with the problems of climate change, and the potential disgruntlement it will cause. It appeared to us that although global warming isn't yet a proven science, the economic effects of it are already showing on a macro level. Private individuals and firms are suffering increased costs from petrol as the price continues to increase, but due to the demand for petrol remaining constant, the repercussions of its consumption remain. He claimed that although there was still no definitive solution, long-term investment in research and development is crucial in combating global warming. Therefore, increased R&D into sustainability of energy must be a national policy in the long term, for both developed and developing governments. Furthermore, Mr Mather was certain that demand would dry up before supply, as he believed a good enough substitute would arise in good time. The talk was informative, interesting and accessible and we would like to thank Mr Peter Mather on behalf of the Epsom College Economics and Enterprise Society for giving up his precious time.
Jake Seabold and Luke Butcher
