We are now heading down a centuries-long path toward increasing the productivity of our natural capital - the resource systems upon which we depend to live - instead of our human capital.
Paul HawkenRead
At present we are stealing the future, selling it in the present, and calling it gross domestic product.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote critiques how current economic practices prioritize short-term gains over sustainable future development.
Paul Hawken's quote highlights a significant flaw in modern economic systems, suggesting that we are exploiting future resources and benefits for immediate financial profit, labeled as gross domestic product (GDP). This perspective encourages a re-evaluation of how we measure economic success, advocating for a balance that considers long-term sustainability and the well-being of future generations.
Themes
EconomySustainabilityFutureGdpResources
In practice
Example use cases
During a business seminar focused on sustainable practices, this quote can emphasize the need for a forward-thinking approach.
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