THE letter from Emma Joyce raises concerns about what information is being given in schools about energy resources and atmospheric pollution (January 13).

Proven global reserves of carbon-based energy resources are at an all-time high. Despite continued strong growth in demand, gas resources are not expected to run out this century, and oil will become more in demand than resource constrained.

Coal resources are vastly greater than gas and oil.

The serious cause for concern is the emission of carbon dioxide and the degree to which this may be enhancing the natural atmospheric mechanism of global warming.

While harnessing wind energy and burning willow coppice may seem good ideas, in reality it is not much more than green window dressing.

The energy produced as these renewables are being developed is not even keeping up with the increase in energy demand.

If we are really serious about meeting the target we must stop, and preferably reverse, the increasing demand for energy globally.

Painful decisions need to be made about reducing road journeys, stopping the enormous growth in air transport and significantly increasing energy taxation and charges.

Much more generous incentives must be given on energy conversion and conservation measures.

David Randon,

Blue Slates Close,

Wheldrake, York.

Updated: 09:02 Monday, January 17, 2005