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Other than water and food, energy is the main resource-based factor determining our quality of life – and represents one of the keys to delivering sustainability. The capacity to harness nature’s energy – whether from animal and human power, fossil fuels and nuclear energy, or renewables – is crucial. Chaired by Sir John Houghton, the Foundation’s Third Consultation debated one of the biggest challenges of the 21st century – the need to provide adequate energy for a world in which population numbers and incomes are both rising, without endangering local, regional and global environments – and its implications for the UK. Experts covered topics ranging from long-term global energy prospects, through the market opportunities for renewables, the human and social impact of technological change and the need for energy conservation and energy-efficient land use and transport planning, to current UK Government energy policy. They presented stark figures demonstrating the problems facing the planet, while allowing optimism about available solutions, given the political will. An agreed statement, urging specific Government action, was sent from the Consultation participants to the European Commission, the Prime Minister and other UK political leaders. Urgent integrated policy response Among the key conclusions:
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