PEAK Oil

/piːk ɔɪl/

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Key Insights
  • The Hubbert Curve: This theory suggests that oil production follows a bell-shaped curve; "Peak Oil" is the point in time when the maximum rate of extraction is reached, after which production begins to decline.
  • Economic Impact: Historically, this term triggered fears of "resource scarcity" and global economic collapse due to rising fuel costs.
  • Shift in Perspective: Modern debate has shifted from "Peak Supply" (running out of oil) to "Peak Demand"—the point where society moves to renewables and no longer wants to extract the remaining oil.

Pablo Mathis Pablo Mathis obtained a BSc in Security Studies from Leiden University and an MA in War Studies from King's College London. He is currently a MSc(Res) International Relations candidate at the London School of Economics and Political Science. His main areas of interest are international relations theories and small states.

Cite this brief
Mathis, P. (2023). PEAK Oil. EPIS Insight · International Economic Relations.
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