Throughout history, technology has enhanced productivity, and computational machines now pervade most processes in developed economies. This integration will deepen as development progresses.
We have achieved remarkable global progress: extreme poverty has diminished, childhood mortality from disease has declined, and education has expanded, particularly for young women. However, our planet still suffers one grave danger — US!
Environmental degradation is tied to resource extraction and manufacturing. African nations yield precious stones, metals, and petroleum. Asian and South American forests have been cleared extensively. Residents of resource-rich regions rarely benefit, often living under corrupt regimes supported by consumer demand.
The production process itself contributes to environmental harm. Harvesting, transportation, processing facilities, and distribution all generate pollution and waste. The result is not the issue, but the process.
This is part one of a three-part series examining sustainable development and production methods.