Fast global distribution

Back? The future of books

Description:

In our fast global economy the rapid distribution of goods is an important factor for companies to consider if they want to stay alive. With the arival of the internet good that can also be distributed digitally are increadibly dependant on fast distribution. CD's can be downloaded before they appear in stores, and already books can sometimes be obtained digitally before they have appeared in any store. In order for companies to quickly distribute good they have to rely on air-transport, since transport by ocean is extremely slow.

Currently most forms of air transport rely on the use of fosil fuels. There are a few planes developed that use different forms of energy, but these are not intended to carry goods or people. Our oil will run out and if that happens air traffic as we know it is over. If nothing is done about this then quick distribution of good is also a thing of the past, possibly a killer for heavy paper books.

Enablers:

1. Research and breakthroughs in aviation

2. Alternative sources of energy

3. Alternative modes of high speed, heavy weight transport

Inhibitors:

1. Depletion of oil

2. Extremely high prices for fosil fuels

Timing:

Oil is estimated to run out in about 50 years