Economic Development and the Environment in Chile

Abstract

As a rapidly developing economy based on natural resource exploitation, Chile embodies many of the themes so often discussed about the impact of economic growth on the environment. Economists typically hold Chile up as a model of progress, while environmentalists libel the wisdom of its development strat egy. Both are, in some respect, correct. Hence, given Chile's current economic necessities, it would be unwise for it to abandon pro-growth initiatives. How ever, it cannot continue its current model of development indefinitely if it hopes to provide a livable environment for its people. Chile must continue to strengthen its incipient environmental programs and diversify its economy with an eye to relative environmental cleanliness. These objectives are well within reach, and both economists and envircnmentalists would do well to rec ognize and encourage the moderate, sensible middle course that is still avail able to make Chile an example of sustainable development.

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