" It’s self-evident that we are going to have permanent problems with oil and gasoline and the prime resources that are needed to run the American suburbs. And we’re just not going to be able to run them. You know, it’s just unfortunate, it’s tragic, but it’s the truth. "
- James Howard Kunstler

In the statement under consideration, James Howard Kunstler highlights a significant concern regarding the sustainability of American suburban living due to impending resource constraints. He points out that as supplies of oil and gasoline diminish, maintaining the infrastructure necessary for sprawling suburbs becomes increasingly difficult. This suggests a looming challenge in sustaining the lifestyle associated with these areas.

Kunstler’s statement delves deeper into the broader implications of energy scarcity on society. By emphasizing the permanence of this issue, he underscores the irreversible nature of resource depletion and its effects on urban planning and economic stability. The quote also implies that there is an urgent need to rethink current models of suburban development and possibly transition towards more sustainable living arrangements. This shift could mean embracing denser communities with better public transportation options or adopting renewable energy sources to mitigate the dependency on finite fossil fuels.

James Howard Kunstler is a well-known author and social commentator who frequently addresses issues related to urban planning, architecture, and culture in America. His critical views often center around the unsustainable nature of modern suburban living and advocate for more resilient community designs that can withstand future challenges such as resource scarcity and environmental changes.