G8 falls into ecology versus economy trap

The assumption that what is good for the environment is bad for economic growth has once again resulted in facile results on environmental issues at G8 2005. The fact remains that we have an environmental crisis on our hands, and concern for the issue looks like poor economics only as long as the costs of environmental degradation aren’t spelt out in dollars and pounds. Change is essential and pushing for it will actually help poorer economies. Because it is only the less affluent who can see how much waste is being generated. Most Americans see their lifestyles as being “normal”. The excessive use of packaging and fossil fuels isn’t even visible to most of them. More...