Title:	TRANSITIONS TO SUSTAINABILITY: RISKS, LEADERSHIP AND EDUCATION
Author(s):	Carol A. Boyle
ISBN:	978-972-8939-79-3
Editors:	Tomayess Issa, Pedro Isaías and Theodora Issa
Year:	2012
Edition:	Single
Keywords:	Global risks, population, consumption, peak fossil fuels, leadership
Type:	Full Paper
First Page:	45
Last Page:	52
Language:	English
Cover:
Full Contents:	click to dowload
Paper Abstract:	Beddington’s assessment of a perfect storm due to difficulties in meeting demands for food, water, energy, exacerbated by climate change raised significant debate. However, it is not clear if the underlying assumptions regarding those risks have any validity. This research reviews the known data and assesses the main, inevitable risks and the potential consequences of those risks, particularly when combined with the results of other events. While population rise to at least 9.3 billion by 2050 is almost inevitable, the ultimate recoverable resources of fossil fuels will likely limit consumption and possibly reduce carbon emissions towards the latter half of this century. Food production could be sufficient to meet population needs for 2050 with good agricultural policies and management aimed at developing and undeveloped countries. Water shortages could be managed in most water stressed areas with decentralised capture, recycling, conservation and good management; however, severely stressed cities may face uncertain futures. The biggest risks will be to environmental services, particularly with biodiversity and marine ecosystems. To achieve the changes needed to manage those risks, we need educated leaders who are able to implement innovative, sustainable management. Education of future professionals is key and we have yet to integrate sustainability across education at the tertiary level.
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