I read Ian Palmer’s most recent book, “How Oil and Gas Companies are Pivoting Toward Climate Change.”  I am an older man living in a red, oil and gas producing state and I found Dr. Palmer’s description of energy transition most interesting.  While I am not a member of the oil and gas industry, I am acutely aware of the reported impact of oil and gas production, and gas consumption, on the climate.  

Dr. Palmer helped me become aware of the difference between global warming and climate change.  His book is a studied examination of a complicated relationship between our exploration for, and our consumption of, fossil fuels.  He provides statistical analysis and graphic displays of how this industry has impacted our lives.  If you are the analytical type that enjoys digging into the numbers, he provides that for you.   If you are a layman like me, he also summarizes the data so you can read the conclusion and get the picture.  He provides “Takeaways”  at the end of ideas to help you understand the salient issues you just read.  His approach provides the analytical mind, and the less analytical mind , a way to understand how the oil and gas industry has developed and how it is trying to change.

Dr. Palmer presents a balanced and objective view of an industry which receives a great deal of criticism these days, and yet provides a commodity without which our modern society cannot currently function.  He tells the reader how we got to this point of energy dependence and how even the large oil companies are investing resources in alternative sources of energy such as hydrogen, ammonia, solar and wind energy among others.  It is clear that change is coming in energy production and consumption. Dr. Palmer sets out a clear vision of what is being done and what needs to be done to make the eventual transition from fossil fuel to renewables.  It is a book that will serve the oil and gas industry insider as well as the person on the street who is concerned about getting to work, and the health of the planet. ~ Randy Bunn, Attorney

“This book was an enjoyable read. It is written using clear and understandable prose with topics well researched and explained. The topics presented show how the largest Western-world oil and gas companies are dealing with the realities of fossil fuel-induced global warming and their resulting climate changes while still maintaining profitability.” ~ John Cameron

“This book is a great insight on the importance of our planet’s energy future and the direction of mankind!” ~ Cliff Taylor, an oilman from Oklahoma.