Six steps to a sustainable society
After first presenting problems from the deterioration of the resource base, the authors discuss in order the following: stabilizing world population; protecting cropland; reforesting the earth; moving beyond the throw away society; conserving energy; and developing renewable energy. The transition to a sustainable society will challenge the capacity of countries everywhere to change and adapt. Some adjustments will occur in response to market forces, some in response to public policy changes, and still others as a result of voluntary changes in lifestyles. In order to take the necessary steps, all nations will have to make major financial commitments as soon as possible. Building a sustainable society will require heavy investments, both public and private, simultaneously in several sectors. Funds are needed to construct soil-conserving terraces, install rooftop solar collectors, build fuel-efficient mass-transit systems, and take thousands of other steps. Once the transition is well under way, investment requirements will fall sharply. But until then, capital will be scarce and costly. 83 references.
- Research Organization:
- Worldwatch Inst., Washington, DC (USA)
- OSTI ID:
- 5430682
- Resource Relation:
- Related Information: Worldwatch Paper 48
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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POLICY AND ECONOMY
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RESOURCE DEPLETION
SOCIO-ECONOMIC FACTORS
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290200* - Energy Planning & Policy- Economics & Sociology
290400 - Energy Planning & Policy- Energy Resources
299000 - Energy Planning & Policy- Unconventional Sources & Power Generation