economic growth

Jennifer Turner, Director, China Environment Forum at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars, is interviewed on energy demand and environmental conditions in China leading up to the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing. Turner discusses China's long-term energy and environmental concerns, as well.

Study of emissions reduction in Germany reveals ways to cut emissions by 30% (from 1990 levels) without impacting growth or lifestyle. Further reductions will be more difficult, however.

There are opposing views on whether economic growth can lead to increased levels of ecological and social sustainability. Its promoters argue that economic growthis needed to apply new technologies and sophisticated products which, in turn, lead to a more economic use of natural resources, more environmental protection and social progress. Yet, opponents claim that economic growth is based on global production and consumption patterns that are destroying our natural livelihoods and increasing social inequalities.