What is your vision of a sustainable future?
You, like many people, are probably wondering what a sustainable world would look like. While nobody knows for sure, we can think about the positive implications of sustainability. Imagine a world where carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is not rising at an increasing rate, where rivers flow free to the oceans that once again teem with fish. Think of a future where forests encroach on cities instead of the other way around, and where fresh clean water flows from those forests. Think of communities free of pollutants that make us ill and that produce no waste that cannot readily return to the natural environment and biodegrade. This is an environmentally sustainable future.
Picture in your mind a world that has moved past fossil fuels and derives all energy from clean renewable sources. Envision industries that produce goods that are durable and reusable, but at the end of use are completely recyclable. Think of regulations that make polluters pay the cost of the harm they do while giving incentives to businesses that innovate healthy and efficient manufacturing techniques. Imagine people, living in small communities, either in rural areas or in cities, that are mindful in their consumption; conscious of the adage "live simply so that others may simply live." This is an economically sustainable future.
Think of a world where the truth of human equality is universally understood, where slavery is a dark memory, and people of all creeds and races live together in peace. Think of a world without starvation, abject poverty, and systematic exploitation of workers. Picture societies that value the manner in which work is done as much as the product of the work. Imagine communities that honor the individual while preserving the health of the whole. This is a socially sustainable future.