An interesting presentation by UK chief science advisor, John Beddington, highlights the challenges that we face as the population continues to rise and the demand for food, water and energy increases over the next 20 years and beyond. He warns of a "perfect storm" of events to occur, including a 50 percent demand in food, 30 percent demand in water, and 50 percent demand for energy before the year 2030. If these issues are not addressed soon, he mentions, it will lead to a combination of events that will create international conflict and public unrest. He is hopeful that this storm can be averted, but he notes it will take much "investment in science and technology, and all the other ways of treating very seriously these major problems. 2030 is not very far away."