BA Economic Growth and the Enviorment

Is endless economic growth sustainable on a finite planet?

No, it’s not sustainable.

What happens when growth uses limited resources?

It disrupts the ecological system and risks collapse.

How long has economic growth disrupted ecology?

About 200 years.

What is the Planetary Boundaries framework?

A 2009 framework identifying 9 environmental limits for a “safe operating space” for humanity.

What happens when boundaries are crossed?

It increases the risk of destabilizing Earth’s systems and can cause catastrophic consequences.

How many planetary boundaries were transgressed by 2023?

6 out of 9.

How many boundaries does the meat industry affect?

At least 5 of the 9.

How does the meat industry cause climate change?

By emitting greenhouse gases like methane and nitrous oxide.

How does meat production affect biodiversity?

It causes habitat destruction, species extinction, and ecosystem decline.

What land change does the meat industry cause?

Deforestation for grazing and feed crops.

What are the effects of land-system change?

Reduced biodiversity, lost carbon storage, altered climate.

Why is meat production water-intensive?

It needs lots of water for animals, cleaning, and crops.

What are the effects of freshwater overuse?

Water scarcity, desertification, reduced productivity.

How does meat production cause ocean acidification?

CO₂ absorption lowers ocean pH, harming marine life.

Who sets most Amazon fires?

Loggers and ranchers clearing land for cattle.

What percent of global beef exports come from Brazil?

About 30% (2022).

Who are Brazil’s biggest beef markets?

Hong Kong and China.

Why does Brazil burn the rainforest?

To expand cattle grazing and grow economically.

What percentage of Earth’s oxygen comes from the Amazon?

20%.

How much of world biodiversity is in the Amazon?

30%.