Colin Campbell (1931-2019) was a prominent geologist and petroleum industry expert known for his significant contributions to the study of oil and gas reserves, as well as his advocacy for understanding the concept of “peak oil.” He was a key figure in raising awareness about the challenges associated with global oil production and the implications for future energy supplies.

Key Aspects of Colin Campbell’s Life and Contributions:

1. Early Life and Education: Colin Campbell was born on June 11, 1931, in Berlin, Germany. He was of Scottish descent and later became a British and Irish citizen. He studied geology at the University of Oxford, where he earned his Bachelor’s and Doctoral degrees.
2. Career in Oil Exploration and Production: Campbell had a long and distinguished career in the oil industry. He worked as an exploration geologist for various oil companies and participated in numerous drilling projects and oilfield evaluations.
3. Founder of the Association for the Study of Peak Oil (ASPO): Campbell was a founding member of the Association for the Study of Peak Oil and Gas (ASPO) in 2000. ASPO was an organization that focused on the research and discussion of “peak oil,” the point when global oil production reaches its maximum and starts to decline.
4. Advocate for Peak Oil Awareness: Campbell was a vocal advocate for understanding the concept of peak oil and its potential consequences for global energy supplies. He argued that as oil production reached its peak, the world would face challenges in meeting its energy demands, and a transition to alternative energy sources would be necessary.
5. “The Coming Oil Crisis” Report: In 1997, Campbell published a report titled “The Coming Oil Crisis,” which highlighted the need to address the issue of diminishing oil reserves and the impending challenges of maintaining oil-dependent economies.
6. Collaboration with Jean Laherrère: Campbell collaborated with French petroleum engineer Jean Laherrère in studying global oil reserves and production trends. Their research became influential in the debate over peak oil and future energy scenarios.
7. Legacy and Impact: Colin Campbell’s work on peak oil and his advocacy for raising awareness about the finite nature of fossil fuel resources had a profound impact on energy policy discussions and the understanding of global energy challenges.

Colin Campbell’s research and insights into the concept of peak oil have shaped discussions about global energy sustainability and the transition to more sustainable energy sources. His contributions to the field of petroleum geology and his advocacy for understanding the implications of peak oil continue to be relevant in the context of today’s energy landscape. He passed away on September 16, 2019.