Nature's Paradox : Stepping Stone or Millstone?

Overview & Synopsis

This report is about the intersection of two major crises of the 21st century— the sustainability crisis and the social exclusion and inequality crisis. The world is facing massive environmental degradation. Some of these challenges—including climate change, ecosystem collapse, and ocean acidification—represent global existential threats. Others, such as air pollution, water pollution, and land degradation, inflict significant costs on local populations. These environmental challenges are a by-product of unsustainable practices in the pursuit of economic growth. While this growth has raised living standards around the world and lifted billions out of poverty, not all countries or people have benefited equally.