Why a global perspective?
Sustainable development must be pursued at many levels regional, national, and global – with each posing unique sets of issues. Globalization takes multiple forms – stresses on the biosphere, impacts of communication technology, expansion of worldwide commerce, financial entanglements, and the rise of new geopolitical tensions. We have entered the planetary phase of civilization. In this turbulent moment of transition, the world system faces an uncertain branch point. Understanding the human condition today and possible future paths requires an integrated global panorama. Activities GSG research includes analysis of the driving forces, critical uncertainties and stresses on social and environmental systems for each scenario. The Tellus Institute’s PoleStar System provides a comprehensive data base and accounting framework for quantifying alternative scenarios, including economic, social, resource and environmental patterns for eleven world regions. The research identifies the policies,
