" The USA research team, for example, recommends something like a 50% reduction in per capita energy intensity by 2050. That is flat out incompatible with human nature in a healthy economy and society. "
we can, and it's not.
Are you confused on energy intensity?
The energy intensity of GDP (Energy/GDP) can be reduced through energy efficiency and conservation
measures in energy end-use sectors (passenger and goods transportation, residential and commercial
buildings, and industry). We refer to “energy efficiency” measures as the technical improvements of
products and processes; we use the term “energy conservation” to describe a broader set of measures,
including structural and behavioral changes, that lead to lower levels of energy consumed per unit of
GDP. Examples of energy efficiency and conservation measures include: improved vehicle
technologies, smart urban design, and optimized value chains (for passenger and goods
transportation); improved end-use equipment, architectural design, building practices, and construction
materials (in residential and commercial buildings); improved equipment, production processes,
material efficiency, and re-use of waste heat (in industry).
Yes, we can cut it in half by 2050. note, the formula context is CO2 reduction so call all currently uses of petroleum energy in half. it's from 3.1* 'The Drivers of CO2 emissions.'
CO2 emissions = Population x (GDP/Population) x (Energy/GDP) x (CO2/Energy)
*3.11 coming soon for improved networking! *rimshot*