I would say that another critical element of civilization is Energy production. Existing infrastructure requires energy to run, even as it is phased out as spare parts become irreplacable. A serious source of energy is going to power whatever civilizations rise. The Mississippi may be able to run on Hydroelectric energy, but they will be well-advised to try to secure uranium from the Colorado rockies to really keep the machines running.
That's a great point. I don't think that we'll run "out" of energy any time soon insofar as it's required for function. I do think that energy will become necessarily more expensive over time leading people or peoples to develop more energy-efficient methods of survival and industry. If the US does re-open atomic power, the Mississippi river and the Missouri river will absolutely be regions where energy is cheap in comparison to the costal metropoles.
Salvage? Sounds like 40k grimdark with its technological capacity decline.
I'm specifically referencing the book "The Ecotechnic Future" in that statement. I highly suggest you check out my review of that text.
I would say that another critical element of civilization is Energy production. Existing infrastructure requires energy to run, even as it is phased out as spare parts become irreplacable. A serious source of energy is going to power whatever civilizations rise. The Mississippi may be able to run on Hydroelectric energy, but they will be well-advised to try to secure uranium from the Colorado rockies to really keep the machines running.
That's a great point. I don't think that we'll run "out" of energy any time soon insofar as it's required for function. I do think that energy will become necessarily more expensive over time leading people or peoples to develop more energy-efficient methods of survival and industry. If the US does re-open atomic power, the Mississippi river and the Missouri river will absolutely be regions where energy is cheap in comparison to the costal metropoles.