We are now heading down a centuries-long path toward increasing the productivity of our natural capital - the resource systems upon which we depend to live - instead of our human capital.
Paul HawkenRead
For the developed world, there is a choice to be made: to promote economic policies that despoil indigenous lands or to support cultures and the remaining biological sanctuaries.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote highlights the moral dilemma between economic development and the preservation of indigenous cultures and environments.
Paul Hawken's quote emphasizes the critical choice facing developed nations: whether to pursue economic growth at the expense of indigenous peoples and their lands, or to actively support and protect these cultures along with the biodiversity they harbor. It serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of economic policies and ethical responsibilities towards the planet's cultural and ecological sanctuaries.
Themes
Economic PoliciesIndigenous LandsCultural PreservationBiodiversityEnvironmental Responsibility
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be shared during discussions about environmental sustainability at conferences.
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