Other uses for oil?

[cgallery]

We've all discussed the oil/gas pricing, and contemplated what will power our cars once oil reserves are exhausted.

But aren't some plastics and chemicals highly dependent on oil and/or refining byproducts?

Are there any important materials that we will no longer be able to manufacture once we can't pump oil out of the ground?

Or are there alternatives in every case?

[Tom Slick]

you are correct on all accounts. almost all plastics are from petroleum and they alternatives are more costly to produce. many chemicals are petro based as are many pharmaceuticals.

some reading for you
http://www.americanchemistry.com/s_plastics/index.asp
http://www.americanchemistry.com/s_a....asp?noflash=1