Resource Consumption and Usage

In the context of expanding populations and growing economy, resources have to be consumed/used on a sustainable basis. The environment is the basis for resources: sources of supply or available means, whether natural or manmade, that enhance the quality of life. The environment around us can be considered as source and sink—it is fundamental for economic activity and human well-being. However, its ability to perform these functions is being irreversibly destroyed/degraded by our ruthless overexploitation. Three common themes (often inseparably linked) underlie all environmental and resource problems: population density, distribution, and growth (as well as demand), poverty issues (distribution, accessibility, and entitlement), and politics and control over resources.

Hence, the following questions on the relationship between environmental sustainability and economic growth are of key concern when ...