Sustainability and Energy - A Students’ Perspective

I had the privilege of interviewing eight very talented and motivated students ages,15-17, grades 10-12 from Holy Spirit High School in Conception Bay, Newfoundland. They were presented these questions about our current resource situation and our future. Here is a selection of their responses:

What kind of effect does the oil and gas industry in Newfoundland have on your life?

Makenzie: It has a big effect because both of my parents are involved in the industry.

Sarah: When I think of the industry, I think of money for our economy. The oil and gas industry is something very important for me because it betters my life, (by) providing the things I need around me.

What will the oil and gas Industry be like in five years?

Mitchel: It will be the same as it is now. It will always be a debate and topic of discussion. Prices and production will always fluctuate and influence us, but I can see the industry improving its developments.

Vicky: Hopefully, still here. As it is a non-renewable resource, we need to start watching more closely how we use something so valuable, and irreplaceable! Makenzie: It will be a big part of my life because I plan to be an engineer and make a living in the industry.

How do you feel about the use of our energy resources in relation to the environment?

Kandice: It is always important to remember that a lot of these resources are not renewable, and that there has to be a balance between what you take out of the environment and what you put back in it—Like using green energy and weaning back from oil.

Where are energy resources in relation to the environment?

Kaitlyn: Newfoundland is on the right track, and if we continue to plan for the future knowing oil isn’t going to last forever and planning other resources to use in the future, we will strive and have a bright future.

Makenzie: Right now, we’re trying to improve on more efficient usages of energy other than oil—like wind, energy and water—so that when we run out of oil (which we will), we have other options.

What do you think the energy resources of the future will look like?

Mitchel: Energy resources will look fabulous. The development of Muskrat Falls is huge. It can produce millions of dollars for our economy and will help stabilize and develop us as a whole in the future.

Sarah: They will have a beneficial effect on our economy and will help us with economy, education, hospitals, etc. Tidal, wind, and nuclear power with bio- fuels will all lead to a better and more powerful future.

Emily: I think that solar and wind energy farms will be more common, but there will still be oil and gas dependence for a long time. Kaitlyn: Yes, we just have to plan ahead and budget our money wisely.

Kandice: We need to use the money that we are making through oil and gas right now, and put that towards making our province a more “green” place to live.

In conclusion, it was very refreshing to hear the words of these students. The real change within our society is in the youth of today, and in spending time with these bright individuals, I know that our future is bright and in safe hands.