3.1+Questions+and+Conundrums

The following is a record of questions and conundrums that members of The Famous Five have identified during the course of this investigation. It will serve as a reference for ourselves an our Commanders.

What is the ideal number of inhabitants the island will support? This will guide us as to what infrastructure will be required for example,sanitation, schools, hospitals are all dependant on population.

What budget/funds have been allocated to the project?

Is the volcano active? Date of last activity?

Do we want to risk introducing farm animals (risk of disease) to what is largely an unspoilt environment? Chickens could provide a good source of protein however could involve risk to native birds.

Do we want all "mod cons" internet, tv or mobile phones on the island or are we looking to a technology free environment? Again this will impact on the infrastructure that will be required?

What types of fuel will we use? Solar, geothermal, wind turbines there are many possibilities, However the amount of fuel required will be determined by decisions made about issues such as modes of transport, standard of living, for example will refrigeration to each dwelling be required and so on.

Can we import building materials and machinery or will we be required to use what is available?

Are we looking to create an economy that generates profit and income to inhabitants or simply a subsistance lifestyle?

Although the map indicates rivers it does not detail waterflows which would assist in determining the best areas for settlement and crops.

Conundrums about power and transport: If a geothermal plant requires the removal of tropical rainforest to create space where it will go, will the gains be worth it? Or would it be better suited on the plains of the island where there would be no need to log? It depends on whether the plains have access to the three essential things required for geothermal plants, Recommendations for energy, transport and communication how do we determine this without specific geological surveys? If Wind turbines can be erected with very little disruption to the landscape are they not a better option or would a smaller geothermal plant generate more power in the long term given the average life of a turbine is only 20 years. Are we going to be able to transport the power in power cables above ground or should another method of transportation be explored? Is this vanity or sustainability?