From Guest Blogger Hannah Whittenly: Eleven Things that Would Happen if We Ran Out of Oil

Our over-dependence on oil can’t last forever. Either we as a species will start finding alternatives on our own or the dwindling supply of oil will force us to. Here are a few of the things you can expect if the oil runs out.

1. Skyrocketing Prices

The price of oil will make it unattainable for the general public before it finally runs out. Expect governments, armies, and corporations to have access after oil has disappeared from the general market.

2. Innovation

There will be a huge surge in the hunt for more renewable energy leading to new and more efficient technology.

3. Commercial Collapse

According to freight-line parts specialists from 99 Truck Parts & Industrial Equipment Ltd, North American commodities depend on rail roads and trucks to deliver material. With no fuel, goods and services won’t get anywhere beyond walking distance.

4. Shortages

Oil is crucial to the transportation industry, so expect shortages in things like produce, clothing and other goods until alternative energy sources are widespread.

5. Car Values

Used combustion engine cars will quickly lose their value, making it difficult for some to make the switch to electric, solar, or biodiesel.

6. Halted Manufacturing

Many products, from tires to mobile phones, require oil to produce so you can expect shortages in these areas as well.

7. Farming Losses

The farming industry is largely dependent on oil based machines like tractors and motorized irrigation to produce the large quantities of food the world needs, so food shortages will likely become common.

8. Environmental Destruction

As the supply diminishes, companies and nations will be more willing to use harmful techniques like fracking to obtain oil. This will lead to more contaminated soil and water, which will in turn increase disease and decrease farm production.

9. Mass Transit

Even electric cars run largely on electricity gained from fossil fuels. Until a new major energy source takes over, mass transit like trains and buses will be the only practical means of transportation.

1. Economic Pains

The price of converting from oil to other energy and the loss of production while the turnover is happening will cause huge economic instability and will drive inflation rates higher.

1. Rationing

As the situation becomes dire, expect rationing of oil and fossil fuel related electricity in order to stretch out the dwindling supply.

Thankfully the oil will run out gradually rather than all at once. If the human race makes a concentrated effort to move to more sustainable fuel now while there is time, these disastrous outcomes can be avoided. The gradually increasing price will drive innovation in sustainable energy before there is no oil left.