Greed and Growth
A conclusions that can be drawn from examining influences humans may be
exerting that affect climate is probably that man (collectively) is his own
worst enemy.
Our "modern world" of Consumerism is driven by greed and growth. When will
people be satisfied with what they have got ? I use the word
"satisfied" as I doubt if some people will ever be "Happy" !
Governments like growth as it usually means more tax revenue. Investors like
growth as its gives them more wealth and power.
Sure, there is an imbalance around the globe between the haves and the have
nots. There is a lot of catching up before a universally accepted standard
of living is achieved, which in reality, may never happen. This catch up
process will require resources that may impact on the environment and
climate.
The world unfortunately is a finite resource. At some stage the pressure on
these resources such as fresh water, arable land and fish stocks may reach
catastrophic levels.
Ponder This ...
- Should emphasis be changed from growth to sustainability ?
- Should a concerted effort be made to focus on quality of life rather
than the size or quantity of our possessions ?
- Is population growth the biggest problem, and how do we address it ?