The Reality of Living with Limits

Thomas Homer-Dixon’s essay clearly states the limits of resources that exist in the world and how these are already restricting economic growth. I agree with this assertion, yet I think there are many ways to address this issue. Indeed as the “market liberals” argue, economic growth is crucial for the development of a community by funding education, cleaner water and air, technology advancements, healthcare, and infrastructure, among others. Yet, the problem is that inevitably this economic growth also creates inequality. The results are developing nations that struggle to meet their population needs; therefore they must exploit their natural resources, often creating great environmental damage. While, the more developed nations continue to grow, creating better health and social conditions for their citizens, yet also increasing consumption and omitting enormous amounts of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

This is the reality of the situation, the reality of our economic system. Indeed, economic development has created better conditions, but at the expense of the environment. Although the market liberals also agree that economic development generates environmental degradation, the solutions they propose do not emphasize the urgency of taking immediate responses. It is clear that their focus is on economic growth, and I do not believe that the solution to this issue should have one central focus point.

Similarly to the social greens, I agree that there are many steps that can be taken to better manage the environmental situation of the Earth. Among these, directing greater attention to local communities and generating sustainable practices that generate profits for social services. For example, the Ese’eja people, from the Peruvian Amazon has parternered with Rainforest Expedition, a tourist company, and opened an eco-lodge called the Tambopata Research Center. This area offers an opportunity for natives to share their in-sight knowledge about the region and the tourist to enjoy wildlife viewing and a truly unique experience. I believe that to respond to the reality of the state of natural resources, there is not one solution, yet it is an effort that must require a variety of actions and creative alternatives. I do believe that the power and value that local communities have is exceptional, yet often underestimated.