'Succeeds in simplifying the myriad of complex issues bearing on the exhaustibility question posed for all minerals including oil and gas. . . .Provides a good overview for the layman of resource economics right back to Malthus.'
The Journal of Energy Literature
'[This book] should be required reading for all interested in resource depletion issues.'
International Energy Law & Taxation Review
'Inspiring . . . gives an excellent and clear review of the debate. . . . I strongly recommend this book to practitioners, academics, and policymakers concerned with how we should deal with non-renewable resources in the future.'
Minerals & Energy
'John Tilton's aim . . . is to provide a concise primer on the long-run availability of mineral resources for those who are not resource economists or specialists in related fields. He achieves this objective admirably with a logical exposition that blends historical, theoretical, and empirical elements of the ongoing debate together in an appealing way.'
Journal of Energy and Development
Preface
1. The Road Ahead
2. Evolving Concerns
3. Imperfect Measures
4. The Benevolent Past
5. The Uncertain Future
6. The Environment and Social Costs
7. Findings and Implications
Appendix. Real Prices for Selected Mineral Commodities, 1870-1997
by Peter Howie
Glossary