The Science of Sustainability

Common sense tells us that air, water, food, and shelter are fundamental to the survival of humans and businesses. However, the pathway to healthily integrating the two remains a challenge. Read this chapter to explore the important interrelationships between the environment, society, and economics and their importance to sustainable business. What are the merits of both views of economics with limits versus no limits to growth? How do businesses and individuals threaten ecosystems and the environment? What roles can businesses play in addressing environmental challenges as well as the limitations?

2.2 Life and Climate System of Earth

Learning Objectives

  1. Understand basic concepts of Earth's history and ecology.
  2. Identify key natural resources.
  3. Understand the interaction between ecosystem services and human well-being.