TeensCurrent

Currently, we possess a massive problem: we lack a substitute for fossil fuels. Even when the world is running out of non-renewable energy sources, nations are not willing to change direction and focus on the future’s reality. Even though climate activists like Greta Thunberg are striving to be the first to act, it almost seems like nobody cares about the long-term consequences. Therefore, it is almost impossible for countries to move away from fossil fuels because of financial constraints, technological development, and poorer countries’ downsides. 

Firstly, the possibility of 193 countries across the world coming to an agreement is unlikely. Since the world cannot move away from fossil fuels even if one country uses them, every nation needs to participate and acknowledge the deal. Countries like Saudi Arabia generate most of their revenue by selling oil and gas, and if these countries agree to move away from fossil fuels that means their main money source, or coal, is now useless. This can lead up to the country going broke or facing severe financial challenges, causing an economic drawback.

Secondly, technological development demonstrates that vehicles powered by fossil fuels will eliminate fossil fuel dependency. Even though cars like Tesla rely on electrical energy, only a tiny fraction of the world’s people own them. Besides, planes, helicopters, and other vehicles don’t have an energy source to rely on if fossil fuels are gone. To move away from fossil fuels, we need to confirm that our technology is more developed before moving away from fossil fuels.

Lastly, developing countries will face massive amounts of debt to others if we stop using fossil fuels abruptly.  Poorer countries might not be able to pay, or afford the costs to be green yet like the other richer countries. Even though solar panels are considered cheap, most poor countries have significant amounts of debt to others. For example, according to the International Institute for Sustainable Development, South Africa owes about 20 billion dollars, which were used to build coal plants in the nation. If the world moves away from fossil fuels, these countries won’t be able to repay their debts unless they keep burning coal to generate a profit.

In conclusion, moving away from fossil fuels completely is nearly impossible in the current world. Leaders are unlikely to reach an agreement, the technology has not yet been satisfied to reach the goal, and developing nations will suffer with massive debts that can only be earned by continuing fossil fuels. Therefore, even though global warming is affecting the world massively, it is not yet the time to move away from fossil fuels. 

Author: Youone Song