Economics is usually more important factor than science. Science provides possibilities, economics selects those possibilities that are realized.

Instead of building those sci-fi space stations and exploring plants that has been scientific possibility for decades, we have realized and exceeded our sci-fi dreams in computers, internet and mobile phones.

If billion people spend $10 per month on something, there is economic incentive to spend billions in technological research.

I think the point is that this problem is a lot easier to deal with before it is actually a problem. Reminds me of climate change, in that way.

Of course we'll find a way.

But who will pay for it?