60 minSeason 1 • Episode 3
LatestAs we entered the 21st century, the world was guzzling oil, coal and gas like never before. Despite fears of 'peak oil', Professor Iain Stewart discovers that while huge technological advances are helping extend the life of existing oilfields, new unconventional oil and gas supplies like shale gas and tar sands are extending the hydrocarbon age well into the 21st century. Given there's plenty of fossil fuels still in the ground, the spectre of climate change has forced many to ask can we really afford to burn what's left? In this concluding episode, Iain Stewart argues we face a stark choice. Do we continue feed our addiction - suck Planet Oil dry - and risk catastrophic climate change, or do we go hell for leather for alternative energy sources; nuclear, renewables, to make the transition from our fossil fuel past to a low carbon future. In which case, how do we make that shift?
An excellent narration of oil industry since early days to 20th century and up to today. How oil changed the world and shaped our modern world today.
Direction
Crisp storytelling that connects 1850s Pennsylvania to modern climate crisis.
Production
Stunning location shoots from Iranian oil fields to Scottish rigs.
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Presenter Iain Stewart is a legit geologist who once survived a simulated oil blowout for BBC—method presenting, apparently.
Released pre-Paris Agreement, the series now plays like a haunting prophecy nobody heeded. The 2015 optimism hits different now.
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