Chapter 20
Reevaluating the Value of the Environment
IN THIS CHAPTER
Recognizing the three spheres of sustainability
Applying ecosystem principles to create a sustainable society
Comparing conventional and environmental economics
Shifting your perspective
Looking towards a sustainable future
You may hear the argument that sustainability just isn’t economically sound, but the truth is that many of the current methods of extracting resources and manufacturing goods aren’t sound. Mainstream economics relies on the assumption that Earth’s natural resources are limitless, and that premise simply isn’t true. Some resources, such as fossil fuels, are limited in supply; other resources, such as fresh water, become more limited as they’re overused or polluted. Because of resources’ limited nature, economic growth based on an idea of unlimited supply is unsustainable.
By practicing sustainable methods of resource extraction, production, and development, humans can meet their endless desire ...
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