Sustainability Solutions

Importance of Sustainability

Sustainability is the ability to satisfy the needs of a generation without compromising the future generations' ability to meet their own needs.

Issues surrounding common pool resources lead to discussions about sustainability.
As we are still increasing our production and consumption of natural resources, it is becoming increasingly vital we consider the sustainability of our actions lest we end up like those poor cattle farmers in the tragedy of the commons example.

Sustainability is of great importance on a national and global level. These resources are not owned by one country, and therefore international cooperation is key.

Examples
Carbon emission caps and taxes
Subsidies for clean and renewable technologies (clean technology)

A proposal by economist Elinor Ostrom.
Participation of industries in the measures planned and taken to resolve environmental sustainability issues.
These industries are aware there is a problem and strive to fix them.

Examples

Cruise lines are aware they have a negative impact on the environment. They chose to implement and market their sustainability.

Countries must cooperate to develop, set and enforce policies designed to slow, halt, and reverse climate change
- For example Paris conference

Lack of shared responsibility.
Not all countries produce large CO2 emissions.
The countries most affected by sustainability issues often have the smallest climate impact.
- For example small islands with little to no CO2 footprint are most affected by climate change while the larger countries responsible for large emissions are slow to act.
Inequality of Resources
- Not all countries have the ability to devote resources to combat climate change.
- Developing countries find it much more difficult to transition to clean technology and renewable energy.
Political Disagreements
- Some governments are more committed than others to reducing environmental impacts and there are different views about which methods are best.