The energy and environment challenges have to be analysed within a long-time perspective. Technologies provide a large potential towards a post carbon society but with high uncertainties, with their own strengths and weaknesses. European efforts have to be made in energy efficiency, renewable energy sources,
CO₂ capture and storage, nuclear fission, fusion, hydrogen and fuel cells.
But technology alone is not sufficient. Socio-economic aspects are key elements, especially those related to behaviour and land use. The questions of energy consumption and economic growth, of demand-side measures and social adoption, of time budget dedicated to certain functions, and of increasing urbanization have to be particularly considered.

Torna all'articolo