Blueprint For a Sustainable Future

Sustainability Optimists (neoclassical economists) Pessimists (ecological economists) Overpopulation Material and Energy Wastes Environmental Damage

Sustainability Economic Sustainability Social Sustainability Environmental Sustainability

Quantifying Sustainability I = P. A. T Impact = Population x Affluence x Technology e.g. Impact of automobiles on global warming

Overpopulation Asset or liability? Thomas Malthus Raymond Cowles Ken Boulding

Waste Overconsumption Inefficiency

Examples of Conservation Turn thermostats to 68 o F, 55 o F when going to bed. Seal cracks between the frames and the siding around doors. Check the filters (refrigerators, furnaces) Use cold water rinse when washing clothes. Do most chores during non-peak hours (10 PM to 6 AM). Unplug all appliances that are not in use. Turn off unused lights, use motion and infrared sensors, use compact fluorescent bulbs.

Environmental Damage Air and Water Pollution Land abuse Deforestation Toxic Waste

Environmental Challenges The Copenhagen Institute for Future Studies Hyper-consumerism Food shortages Mega cities Deterioration of water supplies Population growth Increasing energy demand Spreading and accumulation of toxic wastes Global warming Depletion of ozone shield Spread of infectious diseases Destruction of ozone

Environmental Technology Old Way Dilution (Raising factory chimneys) “End-of-Pipe” Treatment (Catalytic converters, electrostatic precipitator, bag houses) New Way Fewer pollutants (higher efficiency, better combustion) Decrease use of natural resources (renewable energy sources) Life Cycle Assessment

A Blueprint…. On the Personal Level Simplify your life Find a hobby Minimize your energy losses Use ecologically friendly (green) materials Reduce your material consumption Extend product useful life Change your diet

A Blueprint… On the Community and National Levels Promote sustainability Empower individuals Deploy empowering technologies Make everybody pay the true cost of goods and services Revamp manufacturing practices Eliminate subsidies Reform tax laws Participate in local and national politics Educate

And finally the most important of all … Listen Learn Love Laugh