Unit 2; 1.4 What is an Environmentally Sustainable Society?
Conservationists
people who want resources managed wisely and scientifically in a way that allows people to use the resources while making sure that there are resources available in the future
Preservationists
people who want resources set aside and protected so they cannot be used
Both Rachel Carson and Cuyahoga River
made the public demand government action to help protect the environment
natural income
Portion of renewable resources that can be used sustainably.
human-centered
believe the world is here to benefit humans
Earth-centered
believes we should learn from nature to benefit the whole planet
Rachel Carson
published a book (Silent Spring) showing the effect of a pesticide, DDT, on wildlife
Cuyahoga River
so polluted that it caught fire several times
Earth Day
started in 1970; people protested for the government to protect the environment
protect natural capital and live off natural income
this means that you only use a small portion of resources and leave enough there to regenerate; analogy with money - win $1 million and invest it. You can earn money from your investment and if you only spend that money, you will always have your original $1 million. If you just spend from the $1 million, you will eventually run out of money
Early colonists
thought we would never run out of resources in America
life-centered
want to keep all species alive regardless of value
environmentally sustainable society
when you protect natural capital and live off natural income; Society that meets the current and future needs of its people for basic resources in a just and equitable manner without compromising the ability of future generations of humans and other species from meeting their basic needs.