How Can We Eat More Sustainably to Save the Earth for Our Children and Grandchildren?

Abstract

Predicting the future is always tricky, but it appears that we are running through our natural resources faster than we should. I have carefully studied four very different views on what is ahead for readers who will still be alive in 2050. The pessimistic view warns us that if we do not make dramatic changes to our lifestyles, we will face world-wide famine and the collapse of the world economy. A more optimistic perspective points to further reliance on technology to allow rich nations to maintain their profligate ways while upgrading the lives of humans who currently live in abject poverty. Two middle paths have been advanced that suggest nations will continue to do just enough to prevent economic collapse while suffering consequences associated with an inability act quickly enough. From my vantage point each view appears to be plausible. Each vision suggests that governmental action will be needed beyond individual efforts if we expect a healthy earth half-way through the twenty-first century. I will revisit these predictions at the end of the chapter.