" We all know we have a problem, a broad problem. Ninety-eight percent of the fuel that is used by our vehicles, our autos and trucks for personal and commercial purposes, for highway and air travel operates on oil. The world has the same problem. "
- John Olver

The quote highlights a significant issue facing our society today: the overwhelming reliance on oil as the primary source of energy for transportation. It underscores that nearly all vehicles, including personal and commercial cars, trucks, planes, and other modes of transport used for travel, depend heavily on oil to function.

On a deeper level, this statement touches upon broader environmental and economic concerns. The speaker points out the interconnectedness of global dependence on oil by mentioning it as a "broad problem." This indicates that while the issue is most immediately visible in transportation, its repercussions ripple through various aspects of society and across international boundaries. It suggests that such dependency not only exacerbates climate change due to carbon emissions but also contributes to geopolitical tensions over resource control.

John Olver, the speaker of this quote, was a U.S. Representative from Massachusetts who served for many years starting in 1991. Known for his dedication to environmental and transportation issues, he often advocated for sustainable solutions that could reduce reliance on fossil fuels and promote cleaner alternatives. His insights reflect long-standing concerns about energy policy and its impact on both the environment and society at large.