Abstract
World population is growing at the unprecedented rate of almost 100 million people every year, and human activities are producing major changes in the global environment. If current predictions of population growth prove accurate and patterns of human activity on the planet remain unchanged, science and technology may not be able to prevent either irreversible degradation of the environment or continued poverty for much of the world. The following joint statement, prepared by the Officers of The Royal Society of London and US National Academy of Sciences, reflects the judgement of a group of scientists knowledgeable about the historic contributions of science and technology to economic growth and environmental protection. It also reflects the shared view that sustainable development implies a future in which life is improved worldwide through economic development, where local environments and the biosphere are protected, and science is mobilised to create new opportunities for human progress. Through this statement, the two academies wish to draw attention to these issues and to stimulate debate among scientists, decision makers and the public. In addition, the two academies will organise, in cooperation with other academies, a scientific conference to examine these issues in detail, which will be held in Stockholm in early 1993.
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