Ecological Modernization Theory and Forests

Flashcards covering Ecological Modernization Theory, the Environmental Kuznets Curve, forest loss trends, and other political mechanisms influencing environmental change, based on Professor John M. Shandra's lecture notes.

What are the two main foundations of Ecological Modernization Theory?

Economic growth leading to improved natural resource use, and the important role of technology in this process.

What does the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) illustrate regarding the relationship between economic development and environmental degradation?

It suggests that as income per capita rises, environmental degradation first increases and then decreases, forming an inverted U-shaped curve.

What do the X and Y axes represent on the Environmental Kuznets Curve?

The X-axis represents Income, and the Y-axis represents Pollution.

How is the 'Pre-Industrial Economy' phase characterized on the Environmental Kuznets Curve?

It is characterized by low income and relatively low pollution, often due to limited industrial activity and a focus on subsistence.

What environmental trend is typically observed during the 'Industrial Economy' phase on the Environmental Kuznets Curve?

During this phase, infrastructure and construction grow, leading to significant increases in pollution and resource degradation as economic activity intensifies.

What environmental trend is typically observed during the 'Post-Industrial Economy' phase on the Environmental Kuznets Curve?

As income continues to rise, pollution levels often decline due to shifts towards service economies, technological improvements, and increased environmental awareness and regulation.

According to data from 1990-2000, how did forest loss rates differ across low-income, middle-income, and high-income countries?

Low-income countries had a forest loss rate of .045, middle-income countries had a rate of .146, while high-income countries showed a regrowth rate of -.041.

Does the Environmental Kuznets curve apply to forest loss based on the provided data?

Yes, the data shows an inverted U-shape where middle-income countries have the highest loss, and high-income countries show regrowth, consistent with the EKC.

Besides the general economic development trajectory shown by the EKC, what other mechanisms are mentioned as influencing environmental change, particularly deforestation?

Elections and Term Limits, Political Rights and Civil Liberties, and Electoral Accountability.

How did the case of Ferdinand Marcos in the Philippines illustrate the impact of 'Elections and Term Limits' on forest degradation?

Marcos's regime granted logging concessions to his associates who extensively cut $960 million worth of hardwoods without reforestation, showing how political power without accountability can lead to severe environmental damage.

How did the Penan people in Malaysia use political rights and civil liberties to combat logging?

They utilized logging blockades, letter writing campaigns to politicians, and legal challenges in the court system to protect their forests.

What environmental controversy involving the Clinton Administration exemplified 'Electoral Accountability' in forestry policy?

The debate over the protection of the Spotted Owl and its impact on the logging industry, which led to protests from loggers concerned about their livelihoods.