Band 8+: Although the prices of fuels have greatly increased over the last two decades. It is argued that, further increases in fuel prices are the only way to reduce world consumption of fuel and lessen pressure on the world's fuel resources. To what extent do you agree or disagree

Firstly, oil, gas, and coal are all non-renewable resources. This fact is acknowledged worldwide, along with the understanding that society can overcome their demands. Despite the significant price increases of fossil fuels over the last decade, the ongoing consumption of these resources will ultimately lead to their depletion. It has been suggested that one way to reduce fossil fuel usage is to further raise prices in the future.

Moreover, many people today do not take their future into account as they should. For the general public to feel the impact of rising fossil fuel prices in their everyday lives, these prices must be increased. While this approach could significantly reduce fossil fuel consumption from an economic standpoint, it will disproportionately affect current users. It is essential that fossil fuel prices rise to a level that would immediately decrease a family’s wealth, thereby encouraging more individuals to switch to public transport. However, some argue against this notion, contending that fossil fuels, such as petrol for cars, have inelastic demand, meaning that price hikes would primarily serve to increase tax revenues and oil company profits without significantly reducing consumption.

Additionally, a substantial increase in fossil fuel prices would not only affect individual consumers but the entire economy as well. Fossil fuel prices are intertwined with various sectors, including transportation, food production, home heating, and entertainment. A sharp rise in prices across these areas would severely impact the living standards of families with limited incomes, pushing the less affluent members of society into deeper poverty.

In conclusion, I largely disagree with the assertion that fossil fuel prices should be raised further, although I acknowledge that there could be some minor beneficial effects. While increasing fossil fuel prices is a commonly discussed solution to the challenges surrounding fossil fuel usage, this proposal could lead to numerous negative consequences. Although a rise in fuel prices might result in a slight reduction in transportation usage, its long-term effects could be unjust for the global population.